Perth Multicultural Festival accessibility and sensory guide

Getting to the Perth Multicultural Festival

To ensure public safety, there are road closures in place on 14 and 15 of November. The information below will help you plan your journey.

Road and pedestrian path closures

• Geoffrey Bolton Avenue, Duchess Way, and Enchantress Way will be closed from 3pm to 10:30pm.
• William St (between The Esplanade and the Mitchell Freeway on/off ramp) will be closed from 7pm to 9:30pm.
• A map of the road closures can be viewed here.
• Upon completion of the events, roads will be opened as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.
• The Elizabeth Quay footbridge will be closed to the public from 4pm to 9:30pm each day.

ACROD parking

The closest parking (including accessible parking) can be found here:

• City of Perth Parking Convention Centre (21 Mounts Bay Road and Mitchell Freeway, Perth).
  • Includes 23 ACROD parking bays.
• City of Perth Parking Terrace Road (165 Terrace Road, Perth).
  • Includes 8 ACROD parking bays.

Please note if parking at City of Perth Parking Convention Centre that the pedestrian and vehicle exit to Riverside Drive will be closed during this event. Please exit via Mounts Bay Road and safely cross William Street at the pedestrian crossing.

Download the City of Perth Mobile Parking app for additional details on Parking in the City www.cityofperthparking.com.au or call 1300 889 613.

$5 night time parking

$5 night time parking is available after 6pm at all City of Perth car parks. Head to www.cityofperthparking.com.au for more information.

Public transport

• Elizabeth Quay is easily accessible by public transport, a short distance from the Elizabeth Quay Train and Bus Station and the Transperth Ferry terminal located in the inlet.
• Wheelchairs, prams and other wheeled vehicles are not permitted on escalators and passengers are required to use the lifts if travelling with these items.
• Remember to use the Journey Planner at www.transperth.wa.gov.au for the latest information before you travel.
• For more information, call 13 62 13 (TIS: 13 14 50). Hearing or speech impaired? Call via NRS 13 36 77 and ask for 13 62 13.

Trains

• The nearest train station is the Elizabeth Quay Train Station, just a short walk from the event site.
• Trains will run on a standard timetable from all stations. Please visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au for the latest information before you travel.

Buses

• The nearest bus station is the Elizabeth Quay Bus Station, just a short walk from the event site.
• The free Blue CAT bus stops near the Bell Tower.
• Buses will run on a standard timetable. Please visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au for the latest information before you travel.

Ferries

• Ferry Services will operate on a standard timetable.

General venue information

Lotterywest Sensory Space

• A Sensory Space is available at this event near Gusto Gelato along Geoffrey Bolton Avenue from 5pm to 9pm. Please refer to the event map for the exact location.
• This space is a thoughtfully designed and purpose-built space, created to provide a calming and engaging environment for individuals with sensory processing needs.
• The container is equipped with various sensory tools and activities, this innovative container offers a safe haven for those who may become overwhelmed in traditional settings.
• This area will be staffed by WA All Abilities Football Association from 5pm to 9pm.
• Minors under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult in the Sensory Space.

Accessible viewing area

• An enclosed accessible viewing area will be available, providing a less crowded space with priority viewing for people living with disability, including people with sensory sensitivity. Limited seating will be available.
• The area is located in front of the carousel along the landing of Elizabeth Quay. There will be flag banners to identify this area.
• Wheelchair users, please note access to this area is via paved pathways, and the surface within the space is solid and stable.
• We advise you to arrive at the viewing area before 6pm as the areas around the enclosed zone will get crowded and will make it difficult to reach.

Auslan interpreting services

• Auslan interpreters will be available for the full stage program on Sunday 15 November, 5:30pm to 9pm only.
• These services will be provided at the Accessible Viewing Area near the Elizabeth Quay Carousel, as indicated on the event map.
• Please notify Jacqueline Homer from DADAA if you require these services on the night at [email protected].

Audio description services

• Audio description services will be available for the full stage program on Saturday 14 November, 5:30pm to 9pm only.
• These services will be provided at the Accessible Viewing Area near the Elizabeth Quay Carousel, as indicated on the event map.
• To access audio description services, please contact Jacqueline Homer from DADAA to make a booking at [email protected].

To access audio description

1. Bring your own earphones or headphones. Ensure your mobile device has enough charge.
2. Download the Sennheiser Mobileconnect App prior to arriving at the venue.
3. At the venue prior to the AD show, go to “Settings” on your smart device (iPhone, Android or iPad), select “wifi” and connect to the “DADAA wifi”.
4. Once connected to the DADAA wifi network, return to the home screen and then select the Sennheiser MobileConnect App.
5. Open the App, and select “Channel One” for Audio Description.

Should you require assistance, a DADAA representative will be available in the Accessible Viewing Area. You can identify DADAA representatives by their DADAA Access Badges.

Wheelchair access (accessible matting and ramps)

• Elizabeth Quay features ramped, interconnecting pathways which link the promenades, boardwalks and ferry terminal; colour contrast pavements; accessible wayfinding and signage to help people navigate the area; handrails at stairs and minimum grade ramps.
• The cobblestone paving at Elizabeth Quay’s internal roads provides tactile demarcation for visually impaired visitors, distinguishing roads from pedestrian pathways.
• Smoother pedestrian-grade granite pathways offer a continuous accessible route for pedestrians, wheelchair users and people with prams.

Rest points and seating

• Permanent public seating is available around the Elizabeth Quay inlet; however, it may be subject to availability during busy periods. 
• Additional picnic tables have been provided and can be found at the landing of the inlet and the grassed area near Gusto Gelato.
• Visitors are welcome to bring their own portable seating, but please be mindful of those around you when choosing where to sit.
• Limited, designated seating is also provided within the accessible viewing area.

Food

• There is a variety of food and drink options around the Elizabeth Quay inlet. All vendors will be happy to assist in taking your order.

Toilets

• There are two temporary accessible toilets and 28 all-gender toilets on Enchantress Way.
• Eight permanent accessible toilets and an adult changeroom are located opposite the Elizabeth Quay Water Park.
• Refer to the map for exact locations of the accessible and all-gender toilets.

Baby change rooms and changing places

• Baby Change facilities are available in the permanent toilets at Elizabeth Quay, located opposite the Elizabeth Quay Water Park.

Changing Places

• A Changing Places facility is located at Elizabeth Quay, opposite the Elizabeth Quay Water Park. Facilities include a toilet, adult-size change table, hoist and space for assistants.
• Access is via an MLAK key, which can be obtained from the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia.

Assistant animal relief area

• Assistant animals are welcome in all areas of the event. An assistant animal relief area will be provided alongside the accessible toilets on Enchantress Way.
• Dog bags, a water bowl and a bin are available for patrons needing to use the area with their support animal.

Discrimination and harassment

• This is an inclusive event that welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, religion, ability, or sexual orientation.
• This event has zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment, including homophobia, transphobia, racism, and ableism.
• If you experience discrimination or harassment at this event, please alert your nearest security or event officer. The officer can ensure your removal from the situation if you feel unsafe, prioritising your safety and comfort, and providing tailored assistance as needed.
• Persons displaying discriminating, offensive or harassing behaviour will not be tolerated and will be requested to be moved on from the event with the support of Police.

Sensory levels at the festival

We have assigned each area or activity with a sensory intensity level to help visitors understand the sensory environment before they arrive. Listed below are each level and the sensory intensity you might expect.

Activities and workshops – Moderate Sensory Activity

Join in a range of hands-on activities designed to entertain and engage all ages. The Hula Hoop and Circus Play workshops invite participants to test their coordination and balance in a fun, inclusive environment. Families can also enjoy Face Painting and Art and Craft activities where guests can explore creativity through colour and imagination.

What to expect

• Hula Hoop and Circus Play sessions with friendly instructors
• Face Painting with a range of colourful, child-friendly designs
• Craft Workshops where participants can create simple take-home items
• Roving performers, including stiltwalkers
• A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages

Where and how long

Entry	Activities and Workshops are located around the Elizabeth Quay inlet.
Enclosed or open space	Open outdoor space with grassed and paved areas.
Density	Moderate crowd levels throughout the day, with increased foot traffic and crowd density after 6pm.
Durations	Activities and workshops run from 5pm to 9pm. Activities: Face painting designs usually take 2–3 minutes per design. Please note that there may be a queue, so patrons may need to wait their turn. Workshops: Each workshop experience typically lasts 10–20 minutes, depending on participation. Participants can join or leave at any time.

What you might see, hear or feel

Lighting Levels	Daylight with reduced lighting in the evening.
Sound	General event background noise, with laughter, conversation, and music from nearby areas.
Crowds	Family groups and children moving between activity areas.
Smells or Textures	Paints, craft materials, and grassed surfaces.

How you can take part

Activity information	Patrons can partake in activities at various levels of participation. Facilitators can advise on how challenging an activity or workshop is and all activities can be viewed before deciding upon participation.
Workshop / manual activity	The hula-hoop and circus play workshops will require physical participation through hip movement, balancing and throwing.
Are participants expected to use materials or tools?	Yes, the hula-hoop and circus play workshops may require participants to use hoops, batons juggling balls and other circus items. Craft workshops may involve colouring, painting and hands-on crafting.
Is it okay for a parent or support person to support an attendee in participation?	Parents and support persons can support attendees by accompanying them during the workshop or activity. Facilitators will advise parents and support persons when they cannot be involved in an activity to support their family member.
If an attendee is slower in their movements, is there a capacity to participate?	Yes, the activity staff are aware that all individuals have different movement speeds; if an attendee’s movement is slower than other participants, it is encouraged that the parent or support persons brings this to the attention of the designated workshop staff.

Stage Program – High Sensory Stimulation

Celebrate Perth’s diverse communities with a vibrant Stage Program on the floating stage at the centre of Elizabeth Quay. Each evening features performances by ten Perth cultural community groups, sharing music, dance, storytelling and culture against the backdrop of the inlet.

What to expect

• A rotating lineup of local community performances
• Live music, dance, and cultural storytelling
• Colourful costumes and lighting displays on the floating stage
• Audience engagement through movement and applause

Where and how long

Entry	The stage and viewing areas are located outdoors around the Elizabeth Quay inlet.
Enclosed or open space	Open spaces in an outdoor venue.
Density	High crowd levels are expected throughout the event.
Activity durations	The Stage Program runs throughout the evening from 6pm, leading into the Light Show finale at approximately 8:50pm. Audience members can come and go as they please.

What you might see, hear or feel

Lighting levels	Stage lighting and LED screens will illuminate the area as the sun sets.
Flashing lights / strobe	Some lighting effects and costume elements may flash or change colour quickly.
Flame machines and cold sparks	Certain special effects, including flame machines and/or cold sparks, are incorporated into the event production and will operate intermittently throughout the show.
Sound	Amplified music and voices from performances and announcements.
Crowds	Moderate crowd movement and applause during performances.
Smells or textures	Outdoor environment with occasional food and smoke smells from nearby vendors or fireworks setup.

How you can take part

Activity information	Elements of the stage show will encourage interaction through body movement. Patrons can partake in activities at various levels of participation.
Workshop / manual activity	The stage show will have segments where hosts may encourage patrons to move and dance by following along with the entertainers.
Are participants expected to use materials or tools?	No.

Light Show – High Sensory Stimulation

The Light Show marks the finale of each evening’s Stage Program, featuring a spectacular fireworks display launched from the Elizabeth Quay footbridge. The show is accompanied by live music performed by Nyoongar singer-songwriter Phil Walleystack, celebrating Perth’s summer spirit with light, sound, and storytelling.

What to expect

• A close-proximity fireworks display lighting up the inlet
• A musical soundtrack and live performance by Phil Walleystack
• Bright, colourful bursts and special flame effects
• Exciting atmosphere as the Stage Program concludes

Where and how long

Entry	Visible from around the Elizabeth Quay inlet.
Enclosed or open space	Open spaces in an outdoor venue.
Density	Crowd density will be high around the firework display each night. An enclosed Accessible Viewing Area will be available, providing a less crowded space with priority viewing for people living with disability, including people with sensory sensitivity. At the end of the evening, families are welcome to wait in this zone, or the nearby Lotterywest Sensory Space, until some of the crowds disperse after 9pm, so it is less overwhelming upon departure of the event.
Activity Durations	The Light Show will occur between 8:50pm and 9pm and lasts 5 minutes.

What you might see, hear or feel

Lighting levels	Night-time event with bright fireworks, flames, and sparkler effects.
Flashing lights / strobe	Due to potential strobe and flashing fireworks that are displayed at night-time, there is a possibility that attendees may have a reaction, resulting in fainting, dizziness and worst case, seizures. If you need assistance, First Aid is located along Geoffrey Bolton Avenue (opposite Little Creatures restaurant), along with roving health officers available throughout the event.
Sound	Loud bangs, crackles, and high-pitched whistles from fireworks, along with amplified music.
Crowds	Expect dense crowds and cheering during the display.
Smells or textures	Smoke and powder scents may be noticeable depending on wind direction.

How you can take part

Activity information

Spectators can watch from anywhere around the inlet or from the Accessible Viewing Area near the carousel for a calmer environment. Attendees may wish to bring ear protection for those sensitive to loud noise.