One week before our 2023 festival program was announced, we quietly delivered something else we’re proud of — our first Access and Inclusion Action Plan (AIAP). Developed in collaboration with access consultant Morwenna Collett, our AIAP is a foundational step toward making The Unconformity more welcoming, inclusive, and capable of meeting the diverse needs of the communities we serve.

What we’ve done so far

• Developed the plan in consultation with community. The plan gives us a clear, practical framework to embed access and inclusion into our everyday work, and was developed through consultation with individuals with lived experience of disability.
• Continued listening. We surveyed audiences about their experience of accessibility at the 2023 festival, and we are always available for feedback via email.
• Organisational accessibility. We've embedded accessibility into the core of our operations – as a standing item in staff meetings, a consideration in every budget, and a priority in the design of all artistic projects and processes. Our flexible working arrangements support an inclusive staff environment, and we actively seek diverse perspectives across our board, team and programs.

Looking ahead to 2025

As we work towards the delivery of our 2025 festival, we’re embedding accessibility into our planning from the ground up. That includes:

• Physical access to venues and transport. Despite the challenges of heritage buildings and industrial, cultural and natural environments that are used as event spaces, we are endeavouring to create a festival experience that can be attended and enjoyed by all. In 2025, we'll be offering a free regional bus service throughout the North West region, so that everyone can enjoy the festival and find accommodation that meets their needs.
• Digital accessibility in all our communications. We have developed visual stories for all festival venues, and use image descriptions and alt text on social media posts.
• Financial access to events and opportunities. 75% of our festival program remains free to access, and pay-what-you-can ticketing options will be available. We support the companion card program and offer a range of booking options to meet all needs.
• Sensory considerations in the design of spaces and experiences. This is embedded into our lighting design, use of audio equipment at Open Halls, and creation of quiet spaces.
• Dietary inclusion at catered events and gatherings, as well as a diverse offering to meet all needs at the festival.

By building access into our organisational design, we’re consulting more deeply and making decisions that reflect a diversity of needs and experiences.

What’s next

We’re proud of the foundations our first AIAP has laid, and the action we're taking towards accessibility at this year's festival. Moving forward, we’re committed to building on this work and making further strides in access and inclusion in our next three-year plan. If your organisation is considering accessibility, inclusion, or engagement, we invite you to download our plan here, borrow what’s useful, and get in touch if you’d like to connect. If you would like to support or partner with us on our accessibility initiatives, please contact us by email: jess@theunconformity.com.au