Melbourne’s accessible music event to feature over 20 acts

Melbourne’s Ability Fest is being held today at Alexandra Gardens and features more than 20 of Australia's biggest musical acts.

The festival is supported with funding from the state government of $630,000 through the Community Support Fund and $50,000 through the Live Music Festivals Fund, with TAC providing $140,000 to support the silent disco.

Now in its fifth year, Ability Fest is Australia's first all-accessible music festival and one of the country's leading inclusive events. The not-for-profit event has raised more than $1 million for the Dylan Alcott Foundation to empower young Australians with a disability to fulfil their potential through scholarships, mentoring and grants.

This year's line-up features artists performing across two stages - the Main Stage will showcase acts such as Ocean Alley, ONEFOUR, Cub Sport, and King Stingray; while Mark's Stage will feature renowned DJs including Bag Raiders, Jordan Brando, Cry Baby, and Wax'o Paradiso.

The TAC-supported silent disco will return, using new technology to ensure an even more inclusive experience. People with hearing impairments will have the option of wearing a haptic vest or strap to feel the beat of the music, allowing them to take part in the disco.

The event will also feature local food trucks, elevated viewing platforms, pathways, quiet zones and sensory areas to create a welcoming and comfortable environment.

Victorian Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Danny Pearson noted "everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of live music, and Ability Fest continues to lead the way in showing how major events can be accessible for all people.

"We're proud to support Ability Fest and the Dylan Alcott Foundation as it puts on a great event for all Victorians."

Ability Fest founder Dylan Alcott AO added "I'm so proud of the path Ability Fest has paved for accessible events across the country. Our top priority is to create an incredible festival that is also accessible, and I believe we've achieved that since our launch in 2018."

For more information on the festival and ticketing details, visit abilityfest.com.au.