‘Most accessible and inclusive’ music festival coming to Brisbane

Paralympic gold medallist and former Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott OAM has announced Australia’s most accessible and inclusive music festival, Ability Fest, will hit Brisbane in October.

Live music events can be challenging for people with disabilities to attend, but one festival due in Brisbane soon has set out to change that.

Former Australian of the Year and Paralympic tennis champion Dylan Alcott on Monday announced Ability Fest would make its Queensland debut in October.

The ‘first of its kind’ event is said to be Australia’s most accessible and inclusive music festival and will be brought to Victoria Park/Barrambin in October and 100 per cent of the ticket proceeds go to the Dylan Alcott Foundation.

Mr Alcott said Ability Fest was first and foremost a ‘a ripper festival at its core’, but with the added plus that it brings people of all abilities together.

“We’ll have a completely accessible venue with elevated viewing platforms, pathways, quiet zones and sensory areas, ensuring that everyone has the ability to have an unreal day,” he said.

Disability advocate Dylan Alcott, and the Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy, as they announce that inclusive music festival, Ability Fest, will make its debut in Brisbane on October 26. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Last year, the fourth edition of Ability Fest in Melbourne saw a line-up featuring The Hilltop Hoods, Sampa the Great, and Ipswich born, Brisbane based DJ Dameeela.

Mr Alcott thanked the state government for their 2023 declaration of accessible tourism in Queensland for opening the door to introduce Ability Fest to Brisbane.

Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy said the government was thrilled to announce Ability Fest’s Brisbane date.

“ Events like this not only showcase our commitment to diversity but also underscore the importance of creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate and thrive,” he said.

“Ability Fest serves as a beacon of social inclusion, breaking down barriers and setting a powerful example for communities worldwide. We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate diversity and ensure that Brisbane remains a welcoming destination for all.”

With a renewed focus on fostering community spirit amid the cost of living crisis, the Dylan Alcott Foundation is committed to ensuring the festival is accessible in all its forms, introducing a lower ticket price of $60, with complimentary admission for carers and lowering the admission age to 16 years and over.

“For many Australians, the cost of living crisis has created significant financial strain. We believe that music has the power to unite communities, bring people together and lift our spirits, especially during challenging times,” Mr Alcott said.