Safe Place for all

FIA recognises the value of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in achieving meaningful and best-practice fundraising, and welcomes the contributions and equitable participation of every individual.  FIA is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for our employees, volunteers and members.

If you would like to find out more about how to get involved with the FIA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion working group, please contact [email protected].

Assistance Animals

Guide, hearing and assistance animals are welcome to access the MCEC. Assistance animals must be identified by use of a valid assistance animal identification card, pass or permit and any of the following;

• an assistance dog harness
• a coat, cape or vest clearly identifying them as an assistance animal
• an identification badge or medallion (displayed, for example, on its harness, collar, leash, coat, cape or vest)

Uncertified therapy/emotional support/companion animals are not included in the Act, therefore do not meet the legal definition of an assistance animal and do not have the same public access rights. These animals may be refused entry.

Accessible Seating

In theatres, wider seats are available for use and are typically placed in accessible wheelchair spaces.

Please visit the MCEC Customer Service desk on arrival to arrange seating or ask one of the FIA staff or Volunteers for assistance if required.

FIA will designate a few seats in each track room and within the Exhibition Hall as priority or courtesy seating for those that require.

Changing Places

In December 2024, MCEC finalised our Changing Places facility. Changing Places toilets are larger than standard accessible toilets which provide people with disability and high support needs access to suitable, safe, and private bathroom facilities. More information on Changing Places can be found at changingplaces.org.au.

Closed Captions (select sessions only)

FIA are pleased to offer Closed Captions, via Red Bee Media for selected sessions throughout conference, please indicate during registration if you require closed captions for the sessions you intend to attend. 

Hearing Assistance

Meeting rooms within the Convention Centre are equipped with TTA Hearing Assisted telephones and hearing devices available for hire at no cost. Contact our Customer Service team at +61 3 9235 8000  or email [email protected] to book. 

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative

Both the FIA and MCEC teams are trained to recognise and support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program community—whether you need a bit of extra help, a touch more understanding, or just a moment to take it all in. We’re here to make sure you feel welcomed and safe so you can dive in and enjoy the event your way.

Curious to learn more? Explore Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

Quiet Room 

FIA, with support from ASPECT, has designated a Quiet Room. A Quiet Room is a safe space for people to go if they become overwhelmed during events.

Quiet Rooms are for anyone who needs to take a break from the sensory or social environment. Multiple groups can be in the room and use different spaces at the same time.

Vision Impaired

Braille is provided on all room door signage and fixed directional signage throughout the venue. MCEC is guide dog friendly, welcoming registered assistance dogs into all areas of the building.

Visual Story

A Visual Story is a step-by-step guide for what attendees can expect when they attend FIA Conference 2026. This will become available for download here in the coming months.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Accessible toilets, ramps, and lifts are available throughout our venue

There is accessible parking at the Exhibition Centre Basement Car Park with lift access up to Door 1, 6 and 10 in Exhibition Centre.

MCEC offer limited wheelchairs for day loans, with wider wheelchairs available if needed.

To arrange wheelchair hire, contact our Customer Service team at +61 3 9235 8000 or email [email protected].