The Cairns Convention Centre is proud to announce its ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion through its thoughtful building design, various programs and partnerships, and its selection as a finalist for the Cairns Business Excellence Awards in People Management. These initiatives and recognition highlight the Centre’s unwavering dedication to inclusion and accessibility, embodying its motto, “Passion is in our Nature,” and its people management philosophy, “People are in our nature.”
Globally, 1 in 7 people live with a disability, and the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is more than double that of those without disabilities. To address this disparity, the Centre has implemented innovative strategies to foster a more inclusive and accessible workplace. These strategies include revising job postings to be more accessible and screen reader-friendly, including an inclusion statement in job postings, ongoing education and training, and reasonable workplace adjustments such as reduced working hours, work-from-home arrangements, and personal emergency evacuation plans.
The Centre has forged strong relationships with disability employment providers through initiatives like the federally funded Tourism Taster program. This program connects Cairns’ tourism businesses with employees with disabilities, promoting disability inclusion and refining hiring processes. Trudy Nagle, Employee Coordinator for Tourism Taster, stated, “Cairns Convention Centre has been a highly supportive partner of the Tourism Taster project, with several people with disabilities placed into roles at the Convention Centre in various teams such as kitchen, AV, events, venue presentation, and research.”
In further commitment to accessibility, the Cairns Convention Centre is proud to announce the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. This initiative allows patrons and delegates to voluntarily share that they have a hidden disability and may need extra assistance. Participants can wear Sunflower Program identification, such as lanyards, pins, or wristbands, to discreetly signal their need for help. All full-time team members at the Centre have received training on the Hidden Disability Program to ensure they provide the necessary care and consideration. Casual team members are currently in the process of being trained.
Additionally, the Centre’s design has been guided by a profound commitment to accessibility. This approach ensures that all guests, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy a seamless and inclusive experience. Key accessibility features include comprehensive wheelchair accessibility throughout the Centre, advanced hearing augmentation systems and thoughtfully designed accessible changing facilities, including restrooms and public spaces. Accessibility isn’t just a feature at Centre; it’s a core value that drives the design and operation of the venue.
Janet Hamilton, General Manager of Cairns Convention Centre, highlighted the significance of inclusion and acceptance of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. “Our commitment to inclusivity drives our people management strategies, ensuring our practices are accessible and supportive. This dedication not only enhances our workplace but also sets a standard for others, promoting disability inclusion and equal opportunities for all.” Hamilton added, “Our aim is to provide a venue where accessibility is inherent, not an afterthought. We want all our guests, regardless of ability, to have an exceptional and equal experience at our Centre.”
