Australia’s summer calendar is packed with iconic events. Outdoor music festivals, film festivals, open air art exhibitions, outdoor cinemas, and the world renowned Australian Open all bring people together. Historically though, these experiences haven’t always been designed with everyone in mind.

For people who use power chairs, including those supported by Quantum Rehab, accessibility at events isn’t optional. It’s essential for independence, safety, and equal participation. When organisers prioritise accessibility, they’re not just meeting compliance requirements. They’re creating richer, safer, and more inclusive experiences for everyone.

Why Accessibility Matters

More Than Ramps and Reserved Seating

True accessibility goes far beyond simply getting through the front gate. It’s about ensuring people can participate fully, safely, and with dignity throughout the entire event experience.

1. Freedom of Movement and Functional Space

Power chair users need adequate space to move comfortably and confidently through event environments. Wide pathways, generous turning areas, and clear circulation routes allow smooth navigation without constant stopping, reversing, or rerouting.

When space is restricted, users are more likely to experience fatigue, repeated tight manoeuvres, or minor collisions in crowded areas. Thoughtful layout design reduces physical strain, supports independence, and allows people to focus on enjoying the event rather than managing obstacles.

At busy summer festivals, firm surfaces, clearly marked routes, and sufficient space to manoeuvre make the difference between simply being present and genuinely participating.

2. Equal Access to Entertainment and Viewing

Accessible viewing areas at concerts, outdoor cinemas, and major sporting events such as the Australian Open are essential. Proper elevation and clear sightlines ensure power chair users can see performances and play without obstruction from standing crowds.

Well-designed viewing spaces also reduce the need for prolonged awkward positioning, allowing attendees to stay comfortable and engaged for longer periods of time.

3. Safety, Endurance, and Comfort in Outdoor Conditions

Many summer events take place on grass, gravel, or uneven ground. These surfaces can affect traction, stability, and energy efficiency for power chairs, particularly over long distances or extended days.

Stable flooring, step free access, shaded areas, and accessible rest zones support endurance, temperature regulation, and overall comfort. Shade and cooling options are especially important for people who are sensitive to heat or attending events for many hours.

Clear communication about terrain types, gradients, and distances across the venue also helps attendees plan their day and manage energy levels more effectively.

4. Power Management and Charging Access

Large event precincts often require significant travel distances throughout the day. Reliable battery performance is essential for power chair users to move independently, return safely, and avoid unnecessary stress.

Access to charging points, quiet recharge areas, or designated support hubs provides reassurance and flexibility. Even when charging isn’t required, knowing where power is available allows people to attend longer events with confidence rather than limiting participation out of concern for battery range.

5. Access to Toileting, Changing, and Continence Facilities

Access to appropriate toilets, change spaces, and continence management facilities is critical at events that span several hours. Standard accessible toilets may not meet everyone’s needs, particularly for people who require assistance, hoisting, or space for repositioning.

Well-equipped facilities such as adult change spaces, adequate circulation room, and clear signage support comfort, dignity, and health. When these facilities are available and easy to locate, attendees are far more likely to stay, relax, and fully engage in the event.

6. Social Inclusion and Participation

Events are more than entertainment. They’re opportunities for connection, shared experiences, and community participation. Being able to attend a festival with friends or enjoy a major sporting event without barriers reinforces autonomy and confidence.

Accessible environments support choice and independence, ensuring people using power chairs can participate on their own terms rather than relying on constant assistance or advance negotiation.

Australian Summer Events Leading the Way

Many event organisers are now raising accessibility standards.

Music festivals are introducing detailed accessibility maps, accessible viewing platforms, quiet zones, Auslan interpretation, and dedicated accessibility teams on site.

The Australian Open provides step free entry, accessible seating throughout the precinct, mobility services, and clearly marked inclusive pathways.

These improvements reflect a growing understanding that accessibility benefits everyone, not just those who can easily navigate crowds, stairs, or uneven terrain

Why It Matters

Giving Everyone a Chance to Make Memories

A power chair user should be able to feel the music pulse through the crowd, explore a festival alongside friends, or cheer courtside during a thrilling tennis match.

These moments aren’t just enjoyable. They’re part of Australia’s cultural fabric. Accessibility ensures those moments are shared, not missed.

Building a Truly Inclusive Events Culture

To continue improving accessibility, event organisers can:

• Consult people with lived experience
• Provide clear, detailed accessibility information before ticket purchase
• Offer companion ticketing and accessible transport options
• Ensure access to charging points, rest zones, and change facilities
• Train staff in disability awareness and mobility support
• Ensure toilets, viewing platforms, and pathways are genuinely usable

When accessibility is intentional, everyone benefits.

Final Thought

Accessible events create a more connected and vibrant Australia.

For people using power chairs, including those supported by Quantum Rehab, accessibility means freedom, safety, and belonging.

For organisers, it means broader audiences and better experiences. For everyone, it means a summer where no one is left out.