ICCSydney recently launched its first Disability Inclusion Action Plan on World Autism Awareness Day, reaffirming its dedication to inclusivity and accessibility to people with a disability.
International Convention Centre Sydney (ICCSydney), managed by ASM
Global, recently launched its first Disability Inclusion Action Plan
(DIAP) on World Autism Awareness Day, reaffirming its dedication to
inclusivity and accessibility to people with a disability.
In 2023, it became Australia's first convention centre to release an
Accessible and Inclusive Events Guide, furthering its commitment to
accessibility.
ICC Sydney’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan covers four key pillars
that were developed in consultation with Get Skilled Access through a
lengthy discovery process, and includes outcomes across Culture, Built
and Digital Environment, Employment, and Systems and Processes areas.
“Our new Disability Inclusion Action Plan is a blueprint for
enhancing our services so that every visitor feels a sense of belonging
and inclusion,” said ICC Sydney CEO and group director – convention
centres, ASM Global (APAC), Geoff Donaghy.
“In step with attendee expectations for accessible events outlined in
our RESPECT: Shaping Events for Success report, we are cognisant of
ensuring that every aspect of our visitors’ journey is considered, and
appropriate adjustments are made to remove any barriers to a positive
experience,” Donaghy said.
Bridie McKim, consultant at Get Skilled Access, praised ICC Sydney's
commitment to “challenge biases and perceptions to create an inclusive
environment through their first Disability Inclusion Action Plan”, while
River Night, founder of Sydney Disability Connection Expo, Australia’s
largest disability related event, lauded ICC Sydney's dedication to
inclusion, affirming the venue's readiness to host inclusive events.
ICC Sydney's DIAP, which aligns with Australia's Disability Strategy
2021-2031, the country’s roadmap for an accessible and inclusive
society, reflects a collaborative effort to foster an inclusive
environment that celebrates diversity and ensures equal participation
for all individuals, including those with disabilities.
Liesl Tesch, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion,
commended ICC Sydney's initiative, emphasising the importance of
inclusivity, as around one in five Australians experience disability.
“It’s a positive step forward for the millions of people visiting ICC
Sydney from across the state, right across Australia and beyond our
borders,” said Tesch. “These action plans help to provide opportunities
for full participation in the community, in our economy, and engagement
with world-class facilities such as ICC Sydney.”