Accessibility

Carols by Candlelight is an inclusive event with many accessibility options including audio description, Auslan interpretation, and access for wheelchairs and carers.  

Patrons who may experience issues with aspects of a live performance, such as a sensitivity to noise, are recommended to purchase a lawn seat or sit near an aisle.  

Download the accessibility guide

The accessibility guide or ‘Access Key’ for Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight provides information about accessibility features at the event including parking, staff and assistance, toilets, and what you can expect at the event. 

Auslan interpretation

Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpretation is offered at Sidney Myer Music Bowl for the main performance on 24 December only. You can book tickets near the interpreter in the General Admission Lawn area during the booking process by adding the code ‘AUSLAN’ into the password. These tickets are subject to availability. 

Audio description receivers

Carols by Candlelight offers professional audio description for attendees at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl who are blind or have low vision. This gives a live description of what is happening on the stage and is delivered through receivers that are handed out from the information stall at the event.  

Audio description receivers can be booked at the time of purchasing tickets, by following the prompt on the Ticketek webpage or over the phone at 1300 130 300.

Audio description at home

If you are enjoying the Carols by Candlelight broadcast at home, Vision Australia Radio will provide a commentary of the night's events alongside audio description for those listening at home. 

This commentary will help describe what is happening in the space and how attendees are reacting to performances on stage, so you can share in the magic of the evening. The program will air live across the Vision Australia Radio Network from 8PM in Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Melbourne and regional Victoria. 

Listeners outside the Vision Australia broadcast areas can also access a live broadcast with audio description on the Vision Australia Radio website.