As operators of the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, we Acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Djilang (Geelong), the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay respects to their Elders past and present, and thank them for gifting the centre its name, returning language to Country. Meaning ‘open your eyes to the hills’, once open, Nyaal Banyul will encourage visitors to the centre to look deeply and appreciate the landscapes and history of Wadawurrung Country.

Geelong's new event venue opens July 2026.

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Accessibility Checklist for Your Event

By Bree Pagliuso|

When spaces are designed with inclusion in mind, they bring people together. Conversations deepen. Ideas grow. Everyone has the opportunity to take part.

At Nyaal Banyul, accessibility is about belonging and connection. Built on Wadawurrung Country and guided by cultural respect and community, every detail has been shaped by Universal Design principles to create spaces that feel open, intuitive and inclusive for everyone. 

From tiered wheelchair seating in Wala Mirr Theatre to sensory rooms, Changing Places facilities, and all-gender bathrooms, accessibility has been considered at every level of design and experience. 

Nyaal Banyul will welcome people of all ages, abilities, genders and backgrounds through thoughtful design features. 

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Design Features 

  • Accessible Facilities – Step-free access throughout the venue, including the Wala Mirr Theatre , Delama Event Space and meeting rooms. Wheelchair seating and companion spaces are integrated throughout, supported by hearing loops and assistive listening devices. 

  • Support Facilities – Separate spaces for reflection, parenting and sensory needs, including a multi-faith prayer room, parents’ room and sensory room. 

  • Inclusive Bathrooms – Male, female, gender-neutral and accessible bathrooms, along with a fully equipped Changing Places facility. 

  • Intuitive Wayfinding – Digital signage throughout the venue and precinct provides clear information to help visitors navigate easily and find what they need. 

  • Designed for Easy Mobility – Wide paths, natural light, rest seating and drinking fountains create an effortless flow throughout the venue. 

  • Assistive Technology – Integrated hearing loops, digital displays and adaptable lighting enhance accessibility across all event spaces. 

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Event Accessibility Checklist 

True accessibility starts in the planning phase. The more considered your approach, the better the experience for every guest. 

Whether you’re hosting a conference , performance or community gathering, these simple steps can help you create an event where everyone can participate comfortably and confidently. 

 1. Plan for Accessibility Early 

  • Set clear goals to make your event welcoming for everyone. 

  • Plan for things like Auslan interpreters, captions, hearing loops, sensory rooms and wheelchair hire. 

  • Think about providing all-gender bathrooms, a Changing Places facility and prayer spaces. 

  • Talk to people with lived experience and include their ideas in your planning. 

 2. Share Accessibility Information Early 

  • Add clear information about accessibility to your event website and registration forms. 

  • List what’s available at Nyaal Banyul, including step-free access, quiet rooms, assistance for animals, hearing loops and the Changing Places facility. 

  • Give guests a clear contact person for accessibility questions or support. 

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3. Make Your Website and Online Platforms Inclusive 

  • Add captions or transcripts to videos. 

  • Offer Auslan interpretation if you can. 

  • Make sure people can move around your website using a keyboard or screen reader. 

  • Use large text, strong contrast and simple layouts. 

4. Make the Venue Easy to Get Around 

  • Provide step-free access to all areas, including stages and breakout rooms. 

  • Create quiet and sensory rooms so guests can rest or recharge. 

  • Install hearing loops and use clear, low-glare signage to show where facilities like Changing Places and assistance-animal relief areas are located. 

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5. Train Your Team and Speakers 

  • Teach your staff, volunteers and contractors' simple ways to support accessibility.  

  • Train speakers to describe any visuals they use and to speak clearly.  

  • Run a short workshop to help your team feel confident supporting guests with different needs. 

 6. Make Dining Inclusive 

  • Offer tray service and use counters that are easy to reach.  

  • Plan menus that meet different dietary and cultural needs.  

  • Provide extra help at mealtimes if needed. 

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7. Make It Easy to Find Your Way Around 

  • Use clear, easy-to-read signs with strong colour contrast. 

  • Share simple maps and directions before the event. 

  • Position signage and digital displays where everyone can see them easily. 

 8. Welcome Assistance and Companion Animals 

  • Nyaal Banyul accepts Companion Cards and welcomes assistance animals. 

  • Provide relief areas and water stations for animals. 

  • Make sure staff know how to support guests with both visible and hidden disabilities. 

 9. Ask for Feedback and Keep Improving 

  • Ask guests for feedback on accessibility before, during and after your event. 

  • Celebrate what worked well and keep improving each time. 

A Place for Everyone 

Every event here is a chance to plan with care, strengthen community and celebrate the shared experience of being together. 

Through our Accessibility Action Plan , we’re taking meaningful steps toward a more inclusive future. 

Discover how we can help you make your next event more accessible . 

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