Ability Fest, Australia’s first accessible music festival, has just announced its debut in Meanjin/Brisbane and its return to Naarm/Melbourne this year.
In collaboration with Untitled Group and triple j, the Dylan Alcott Foundation will bring the unique, one-of-a-kind festival to Alexandra Gardens/Birrarung Marr in Naarm/Melbourne on 19 October and, for the first time, to Victoria Park/Barrambin in Meanjin/Brisbane on 26 October.
Ability Fest prides itself on offering a completely unique, inclusive experience. With a love of music at the festival’s core, Ability Fest is devoted to offering a diverse, world-class lineup, featuring artists from Australia and around the globe.
Ability Fest 2024
- 19 October – Alexandra Gardens/Birrarung Marr, Naarm/Melbourne
- 26 October – Victoria Park/Barrambin, Meanjin/Brisbane
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The music festival this year has committed to ensuring accessibility on all fronts, including a single ticket price of just $60 alongside the return of complimentary admission for carers.
“For many Australians, the cost of living crisis has created significant financial strain. We believe that music has the power to unite communities, bring people together and lift our spirits, especially during challenging times,” said Alcott.
Celebrated for its dedication to inclusivity and community, Ability Fest this year will be open to attendees aged 16 years and over across both cities, fostering an environment where people of all ages can connect and unite through their love of music.
Backed by both the Victorian government through the Community Support Fund and the Queensland government, Ability Fest is set to be stronger than ever in 2024.
Victorian minister for tourism, sport and major events, Steve Dimopoulos, said, “Ability Fest’s dedication to making events more accessible and diverse creates a positive impact on both our local community and tourism sector, showcasing that Melbourne continues to be the vibrant and inclusive city we call home.”
Minister for tourism and sport, Michael Healy, said Ability Fest was a showcase of Queensland’s commitment to hosting inclusive and accessible high-profile events. “With around 5,000 people expected to attend Ability Fest in October, this is a great opportunity to witness world-class musical performances in a completely inclusive and fully accessible environment.”
Ability Fest will once again be collaborating closely with Get Skilled Access to enhance accessibility, offering specialised facilities and services such as elevated viewing platforms, pathways, quiet zones, and sensory areas to ensure all participants enjoy their experience. Ability Fest is also pleased to reveal ANZ, Kia Australia, and Nike as major partners for 2024.
As a not-for-profit event, 100% of proceeds from the event are donated to the Dylan Alcott Foundation, with each ticket contributing to helping young Australians living with a disability fulfil their dreams.
Ability Fest was created by 2022 Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott in conjunction with Untitled Group, Australia’s largest independent music promoter and the masterminds behind Beyond the Valley, Wildlands, and more. The festival is also supported by triple j.
Ability Fest will hit Alexandra Gardens/Birrarung Marr in Naarm/Melbourne on Saturday, 19 October, continuing its tradition of bringing beautiful landscapes featuring sweeping city skyline views to life with music, community, and inclusivity. Meanjin/Brisbane will host its debut at Victoria Park/Barrambin on Saturday, 26 October. The heritage-listed park, with its lush greenery, will provide the perfect setting for Ability Fest and its attendees.
Join Untitled Group, triple j, and the Dylan Alcott Foundation for a beautiful day of live music and community, all while knowing that every ticket purchased is making a difference.
Pre-sale ticket registration is now open. Tickets on sale from 12 PM AEST on 10 July. General tickets on sale at 12 PM AEST on 11 July.
Sign up for presale tickets and more information.
