Victoria’s major convention venues have formed Australia’s first permanent external advisory group focused on accessibility. The Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) has appointed Briar Harte, Nikhil Bora, Jess Price and Alex Stratikis to advise on inclusive experiences at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the soon-to-open Nyaal Banyul Geelong Centre.

Embedding Universal Design and Accountability

The committee will monitor VCET’s Accessibility Action Plan, review new facilities such sensory rooms and high-contrast wayfinding, and ensure staff training meets diverse needs. Recent upgrades at MCEC include a Changing Place facility and Limited Mobility Accessible Tourism Accreditation, alongside Hidden Disabilities Sunflower customer-service training. With Nyaal Banyul’s mid-2026 opening, Universal Design Principles are being applied from the outset—featuring accessible seating, augmented hearing systems and sensory-friendly spaces.