Disability Inclusion: Accessible Events

Content

• What makes an event accessible: understanding inclusion, access and universal design
• Identifying common barriers to participation – physical, sensory, communication, cultural and logistical
• Applying the social model of disability to event planning
• Planning for accessibility at all stages: venue selection, transportation, registration, layout, communication materials, inclusive signage and technology
• Event delivery considerations, ensuring all participants can engage fully
• Inclusive communication and pre-event engagement
• Post-event reflection and feedback for planning improvements for future events
• Building an inclusive culture: advocating for accessibility, embedding inclusive practices into standard event protocols and championing inclusion within teams and agencies

Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe what “accessibility” and “inclusion” mean in the context of public events, applying the social model of disability.
• Identify common physical, sensory, communication and cultural barriers that may prevent people attending events from full participation.
• Plan and organise events — from venue selection to post‑event review — that incorporate universal design and inclusive practices.
• Prepare accessible event materials, invitations and communications that enable participation requests and diverse audience needs.
• Manage event logistics (venue layout, technology, registration, supports) to ensure accessibility for mobility, sensory, hearing, communication or other support needs.
• Evaluate event accessibility outcomes and apply continuous improvement for future event planning.
• Advocate for and embed inclusive event‑planning practices within their team, agency or department.

Who Should Attend

• Government and public‑sector staff responsible for planning and delivering events (workshops, community consultations, public forums, training sessions, conferences).
• Event coordinators, project officers, community engagement or stakeholder‑liaison staff.
• Managers or decision‑makers involved in approving or overseeing events, community engagement, public consultation or stakeholder outreach.
• Any team member committed to creating accessible, respectful and inclusive environments — especially event‑manager teams, community outreach officers, HR, diversity & inclusion leads.

Benefits to You and Your Organisation

• Build confidence in planning and delivering events that meet the needs of people of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences
• Strengthen your understanding of accessibility principles, inclusive communication, and universal design
• Learn practical tools and frameworks to anticipate and remove barriers across all stages of event delivery
• Gain clarity on how to support meaningful participation, inclusion, and dignity for all attendees
• Ensure your events and public engagements are compliant with accessibility obligations and reflect inclusive values
• Improve community trust, reach, and satisfaction by making events more accessible and welcoming to all
• Reduce reputational and legal risks associated with inaccessible events or public forums
• Embed inclusive event planning as a standard practice across teams and departments, creating a culture of access and equity

This course is also available online.