Frequently Asked Questions

Venue Information

Where is the viewing platform located?
There will be 2 viewing platforms available. These locations can be found on BindiMaps and our site map once revealed! Feel free to also ask one of our friendly staff about their locations during the event.

Where are the most suitable seating options for patrons who are blind or have low vision?
Viewing platforms will be located very close to the stage, and are available to all at the festival. We encourage you to download BindiMaps, a mobile app helping users to navigate unfamiliar spaces. Ability Fest will be on BindiMaps, which uses a natural language audio system so users can describe where they are, what’s around them, and can discover the best way to get to the event. BindiMaps also provides a map view, including accessible routes, and our interactive Site Map (check back here soon), which helps users plan their journey.

Where are the most suitable seating options for patrons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing?
Viewing platforms will be located very close to the stage, and are available to all at the festival. We are also supporting patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing by having Auslan interpreters available across both stages for the entirety of the day. We will also have on-screen text available on our Main Stage.

Are Companion Cards Accepted?

Yes! You can redeem your companion card online.

- Firstly, click on view Accessible Tickets
- Select your desired entry ticket
- If you have a valid companion card, you can then select ‘General Admission - Companion Card Holder”
- Proceed to check-out
- After purchasing tickets, please fill in the questionnaire provided.
- Fill in the Companion Card Number, Expiry Date, and Cardholder's Name
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions before proceeding.
- Once you have submitted all your information, your tickets will be emailed to you.
- Please note the companion card details you enter at the time of checkout will need to be provided to gate staff upon entry to the event

 What happens if I lose an item at Ability Fest?

If you happen to lose an item during your time at Ability fest, please head to the Info Hub. Our friendly staff and volunteers will do their best to assist in relocating your item. 

You can also report a lost or stolen item, and our team will take your details and get in contact with you if it is handed in. After Ability Fest concludes, feel free to contact abilityfest@dylanalcottfoundation.com.au with a description of the item you have lost.  Items of value (phones, wallets, identification and car/house keys) will be held at the Untitled Group office until November 29th, 2024.

 Does the venue have an audio loop installed?

Alexandra Gardens does not have an audio loop installed.

Will the Festival have Auslan Interpreters, at which stages?

Auslan Interpreters will be placed on the main stage for the entirety of the event. We will also have on-screen text available on our Main Stage. Viewing platforms or a spot close to the stage are the best places to ensure that you can see the Auslan Interpreters.

Restrooms

Are all-gender  accessible bathrooms available?
Yes! Accessible toilets will be located throughout the site.

Does the venue have changing places facilities?
Ability Fest will have changing places. Its exact location will be updated here closer to the event!  

Parking

Where can I park close to the event?
The Arts Centre via Southbank Boulevard or Kavanagh Street. The Arts Centre is located on St Kilda Road, a short distance from Alexandra Gardens. The Arts Centre car park includes accessible parking spots.

Are there accessible car parks on site?
Yes, there are accessible parking spots available in this car park available to those carrying a valid permit. 

Are there lifts in the Arts Centre Carpark? 
The lift, located in the NGV stairwell, is accessible from both the upper and lower level of the carpark and provides direct access to St Kilda Road. From the street level, you can find the lift at NGV Waterfall front entrance. Owned and operated by the NGV, the lift only operates during NGV business hours (10am to 5pm daily), however, lift access between both levels of the car park is available 24 hours a day.

Are there other alternative parking facilities close to the venue?
FedSquare also has its own multi-level car park, which is accessible from Russell Street or Batman Ave (Exhibition Street extension). The Federation Square Car Park is open 24 hours and has accessible spaces located next to the lift on each level.

Can parking be purchased/pre-booked and how? 
You can not pre-book parking at the Arts Centre. You can pre-book your parking at Federation Square here.

Are there dedicated accessible drop off and pick up points?
Yes, dedicated accessible drop off & pick up points will be along Boathouse Drive - there’ll be no parking available along this road.

What accessible public transport is available? 
Catching public transport will be the easiest way to get to Ability Fest - Flinders Street Train Station is located just 7 minutes away from Alexandra Gardens! The closest tram stop is the Arts Centre/ Saint Kilda Road stop (#14). Please keep in mind that public transport may be quite busy from 11.30am-2.30pm due to other events also taking place.

Where is the nearest taxi/uber rank?
We advise taking public transport where possible, as patrons may face delays when ordering Ubers/Taxis after the event. However, the best spot to organise an Uber pick-up is Linlithgow Avenue near the Botanic Gardens. 

Accessible Features

Will the Festival have a sensory room/chill out space?
There will be sensory areas, dedicated chill spaces and an assistance dog respite area if the music ever becomes too much throughout the day. These locations can be found on BindiMaps and our site map once revealed!

Does the event provide sensory kits?
There will be sensory kits available at Ability Fest. Feel free to ask our friendly staff and volunteers for more information at the event.

Do I need to show proof of age to enter Ability Fest? 

Yes, Ability Fest will accept the following identification:
— Australian Driver's Licence with photograph
— Passport
— Proof of Age card
— Student ID (for those under 18)

VIC Youth Policy
Ability Fest is a 16+ event.

Please make sure to bring valid identification to show staff at the gates. If you are aged between 16-17 years old, you must have a valid ticket and be supervised by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18 years old during the event, as agreed in the Ability Fest Terms and Conditions when purchasing a ticket.

Photosensitive Warning

Ability Fest may contain sequences of flashing lights which may affect patrons who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy or other photo sensitivities. There will be warnings at the event when flashing lights may occur.

For more information, please contact accessibility@untitledgroup.com.au

Can I volunteer at Ability Fest?

Absolutely, volunteer applications are now open!