REMOVING BARRIERS FOR ATTENDANCE

The Australian Academy of Science wants to give everyone an opportunity to attend Science at the Shine Dome 2022, so once again, diversity and inclusion grants are available to delegates. Assistance is available to allow carers and parents to attend, and to support those with disabilities to participate fully in the event.

CHILD MINDING AND BABYSITTING

Parents/guardians are welcome to bring dependent children with them to the event. We will be providing onsite child minding during the three days of the event, as well as babysitting at hotels for evening functions. Additional caregivers are also welcome to attend the event, if preferred. Please contact us to discuss options, such as apartment-style accommodation for families.

Breastfeeding mothers are welcome to breastfeed anywhere at the event, and a quiet room will be available if privacy is preferred. Kitchen facilities can be made available for parents, if required.

At the time of application for child minding and/or babysitting, parents must provide a current immunisation certificate for each child. Please complete the form and we will be in touch to confirm details. 

CARER ASSISTANCE

Delegates may apply for assistance with caring responsibilities to allow them to travel to and participate in Science at the Shine Dome 2022. Assistance is available to those with caring responsibilities at home, including, but not limited to, caring for a family member who has a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness, or who is frail, aged or vulnerable. This assistance can be used to access care arrangements at home, or to travel with those they care for. 

To apply for a Carer Assistance Grant, please complete the form.

ACCESSIBILITY ASSISTANCE

The Academy understands that some of our delegates may need extra support to enable them to fully participate in Science at the Shine Dome 2022. Grants are available to support delegates who need assistance at the event and/or to enhance their participation in the event (for example an AUSLAN Interpreter).

Please note:

• The Ian Wark Theatre is equipped with an infrared hearing loop. For those requiring this hearing assistance, a device can be obtained at the event from the Information Desk.
• The Shine Dome has allocated and reserved disability parking. Please contact us at events@science.org.au to discuss any special parking requirements.
• The ground floor of the Shine Dome is wheelchair accessible. Due to the heritage nature of the building, however, doorways into the venue are only equipped for access by standard wheelchairs. 

If you require further accessibility assistance please complete the form or contact events@science.org.au to discuss requirements.