International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) launched its inaugural Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) on World Autism Awareness Day, on 2 April, 2024.
The DIAP covers pillars developed in consultation with disability inclusion advisors Get Skilled Access including outcomes across culture; built and digital environment; employment; and systems and processes areas.
ICC Sydney CEO Geoff Donaghy says Get Skilled Access provided in-depth consultation and guidance through the development of the plan.
“Our mission at ICC Sydney is to make a difference for greater Sydney and for NSW residents, visitors and businesses and this means ensuring our services are as welcoming, inclusive and accessible as possible for everyone that arrives through our doors,” he says.
“Together with Get Skilled Access, we undertook consultation with our team to more deeply understand where our strengths are and where there is opportunity to improve the overall accessibility of our venue services.
“From content presented across our digital channels to implementing training for our team to best support people with hidden disabilities, our new DIAP is a blueprint for enhancing our services so that every visitor feels a sense of belonging and inclusion.”
Consultant at Get Skilled Access, Bridie McKim, says the venue’s DIAP includes initiatives that will support ICC Sydney’s event attendees and its workforce.
“At Get Skilled Access, we applaud ICC Sydney for challenging biases and perceptions to create an inclusive environment through its first DIAP,” she says.
“During our discovery phase, we identified ICC Sydney has much to be proud of and we look forward to supporting their team to foster an even more welcoming and inclusive culture that reflects the rich tapestry of our society and celebrates diversity.”
NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion, Liesl Tesch, says it is pleasing to see venues placing focus on delivering fairer, safer and more inclusive spaces.
“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,” she says.
“Around one in five Australians experience disability. These action plans help to provide opportunities for full participation in the community, in our economy, and engagement with world-class facilities.”
