The Cairns Convention Centre, located on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, has been shortlisted for a prestigious local award in People Management. The Cairns Business Excellence Awards recognise outstanding business practices, service excellence, and environmental sustainability.
Already leading the charge on sustainability – having recently launched an eco-friendly menu of homegrown produce that champions local farmers and suppliers – the venue is now proud to be recognised for its people strategy, and more specifically, its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Its motto, is “Passion is in Our Nature” with “People are in Our Nature” as its people management philosophy.
Globally, 1 in 7 people live with a disability, and the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is more than double that of those without. To address this disparity, the Centre has embraced extensive and innovative approaches to create a more inclusive and accessible workplace, from a thoughtful building design to progressive workplace initiatives.
Key accessibility features include comprehensive wheelchair accessibility throughout the Centre. All meeting rooms, for example, accommodate wheelchairs and the Arena and Auditorium include several wheelchair and companion seating locations. Wheelchair and ambulant accessible toilet facilities are plentiful, and lifts and escalators connect all levels of the building. And, in addition to accessible toilets for independent use, the venue also has a dedicated changing place. For those with hearing and visual impairments, advanced hearing augmentation systems are in place, as well as braille signage throughout the facility.
Flexible work plans allow for reduced hours and work-from-home setups where necessary, and external communications, such as job postings, are consistently reviewed for screen readability.
The Centre has also partnered with disability employment providers through initiatives like the federally funded Tourism Taster program. This program connects Cairns’ tourism businesses to employees with disabilities, promoting disability inclusion and refining hiring processes. Trudy Nagle, Employee Coordinator for Tourism Taster, stated, “Cairns Convention Centre has been a highly supportive partner of the Tourism Taster project, with several people with disabilities placed into roles at the Convention Centre in various teams such as kitchen, AV, events, venue presentation, and research.”
Furthermore, the Cairns Convention Centre recently launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. This initiative allows patrons and delegates to voluntarily share that they have a hidden disability and may need extra assistance. Participants can wear Sunflower Program identification, such as lanyards, pins, or wristbands, to discreetly signal their need for help. All full-time team members at the Centre have received training on the Hidden Disability Program to ensure they provide the necessary care and consideration. Casual team members are currently in the process of being trained.
Janet Hamilton, General Manager of Cairns Convention Centre, highlighted the significance of inclusion and acceptance of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. “Our commitment to inclusivity drives our people management strategies, ensuring our practices are accessible and supportive. This dedication not only enhances our workplace but also sets a standard for others, promoting disability inclusion and equal opportunities for all.” Hamilton added, “Our aim is to provide a venue where accessibility is inherent, not an afterthought. We want all our guests, regardless of ability, to have an exceptional and equal experience at our Centre.”
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