The Top 6 Activities for Adults Living with Disabilities in Melbourne
13 September, 2022
World-famous for its painted laneways, premium coffee and appreciation of the arts, the city of Melbourne has something for everyone – including those living with a disability.
Read on to discover our top Melbourne experiences, attractions and activities for adults with disabilities in Melbourne.
#1 Live and learn
Melbourne plays host to a range of interesting – and inclusive – museums. In fact, most venues under the Museums Victoria group welcome service animals and provide mobility access, free entry to Companion Card holders, mobility scooter/wheelchair hire and accessible tours and programs.
Melbourne Museum - Known as ‘the autism friendly museum’, Melbourne museum is intentional in their accessibility. In consultation with AMAZE (advocates for autistic people and their supporters in Victoria), their culture and history hub developed Social Stories to provide support for visitors on the spectrum. In addition, they’ve got sensory maps to guide your visit, and quiet times (between 3pm-5pm weekdays) during school term.
#2 Get into some sport
Atmosphere, adrenaline, world-class athletes... Melbourne’s got it all. Thankfully, most of Melbourne’s top sporting venues run their events with inclusion in mind. The below locations offer accessible seats, parking and toilets, multiple entrance options and hearing loops (most will also accept the Companion Card).
Marvel Stadium – also offers a sensory room
For a replay of past glories, check out the Australian Sports Museum, too. They offer accessible parking, free entry for companion and carer cards, and service animals are welcome.
Note: a lot of these venues also host amazing music events throughout the year – with the same intentional accessibility. Another top venue is the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, which offers accessible seating, assistive listening and companion cards.
#3 Find some fun at a festival
Melbourne is a place of fun and festivity – with multiple events and experiences throughout the year. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find awesome (accessible) festivals that entertain and inspire.
And the Alter State festival is a new event celebrating disability, creativity and culture.
#4 Explore the art world
Immerse yourself in arts and culture in the country’s premier galleries. Most of Melbourne’s arts venues provide mobility access, assisted listening, free entry to Companion Card holders, and accessible tours and programs. Many also offer complimentary mobility scooters or wheelchairs – just make sure to call ahead to avoid disappointment!
ACMI – here, registered assistance animals are welcome, and free hearing devices are available.
National Gallery of Victoria – NGV offers options for those who have vision or hearing impairments, sensory sensitivities, and mobility issues.
#5 Meet mother nature
Is it time to get into the great outdoors? Melbourne offers a taste of the best our planet has to offer – all with accessible support options.
#6 Engage in the community
Sometimes, a big day out might feel too much. For those who’d like to get out-and-about a bit closer to home, why not look into...
Melbourne often hosts inclusive events around town. Keep an eye on the 'What’s On' for the most up-to-date dates near you or search ‘free activities for adults with disabilities near me.’
The AAA connects people with disabilities to sporting activities in Victoria. It connects people with over 50 accessible sporting activities in inner Melbourne. Including Blind and Vision Impaired Tennis, Cricket Victoria’s All Abilities Cricket, and Street Soccer Programs, there is something for everyone.
Focus Care offers a range of therapeutic programs for adults with disabilities which can be enjoyed in engaging group settings - both in person and online. Our art therapy class is a popular option.
Connecting digitally
Thanks to COVID-19, many Australians have found new ways to connect in community (currently in isolation? Read our 'Dealing with a pandemic' blog for tips on getting through lockdown). Try video call platforms (Zoom, Facetime) to see loved ones and spend some time talking together.
And, if you’re getting tech-y, why not try one of the best new apps for people with a disability? You may find a new support tool for next time you go out.
How can Focus Care help?
Want to have an adventure? We’re here to help!
Focus Care is a registered NDIS service provider, offering personalised support tailored to your needs and preferences. We can join you for an outing - or suggest ways to support your next adventure.
Wherever you are, we’ve got you covered. If you’re outside of Melbourne – or planning a broader excursion – check out our top activities in Sydney.
If you are looking for a service provider which offers Support Coordination, assistance with daily life, creative therapies, and more, contact us today.
