00:01 – 00:05:
[Revving engine car sound plays in the background.]
The video opens with a close-up of an Formula 1® car racing through the race track. In black bold text on a yellow box, the text shows, "Enhancing Accessibility at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix."
00:06 – 00:09:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music plays.]
The Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Get Skilled Access logos appear at the center of the screen. In the background, an image of a crowd gathered at the level 1 stand on race day.
00:10 – 00:13:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
In black bold text on a yellow box, the text shows, "GSA and AGPC's Partnership Drives Inclusive Experiences for All." Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen. In the background, an image of race start traffic/signal lights is shown.
00:14 – 00:18:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text reads, "In Australia, over 4.5 million people, or 18% of the population, have a disability." On the right, a video shows a woman in a wheelchair navigating through an accessible pathway at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix. Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:19 – 00:23:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text reads, "The case study highlights the long-lasting partnership between GSA and AGPC, emphasizing their commitment to disability inclusion in the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." On the right, an image shows Aus GP drivers on a hoarding at Aus GP. Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:24 – 00:28:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2019-20 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key features Include: Free accessible bus service, Accessible platforms, Accessible grandstands and corporate facilities, Changing Places facility, Complimentary onsite accessible parking, BlindSquare app, And more..." On the right, two images from Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix are shown. The image on the left is of several accessible buggies and the one on the right is of an Accessible Shuttle Stop signage. Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:29 – 00:34:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2019-20 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix" Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key features Include: Free accessible bus service, Accessible platforms, Accessible grandstands and corporate facilities, Changing Places facility, Complimentary onsite accessible parking, BlindSquare app, And more..." On the right, a video of a woman in a wheelchair accessing the Accessible viewing platform feature. Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:35 – 00:37:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2021 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "GSA developed the Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2022 – 2024. Aimed at enhancing accessibility at both the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, as well as within the workplace." On the right, an image of Dylan Alcott waving the race checkered flag next to a formula 1 car is shown. Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:38 – 00:44:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2021 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "GSA developed the Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2022 – 2024. Aimed at enhancing accessibility at both the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, as well as within the workplace." On the right, a testimonial from Tom Mottram, AGPC General Manager - Operations, reads, "I look forward to continuing the partnership between Get Skilled Access and AGPC as we work together to set the benchmark for accessibility and inclusion at motorsport events both in Australia and around the world. GSA have been a valued partner of AGPC for the last five years, and we look forward to together implementing the Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2022 – 2024. AGPC is committed to creating two international motorsport events that provide a diverse range of experiences with a focus on inclusion for everyone.” Get Skilled Access logo is shown on the bottom right of the screen.
00:45 – 01:02:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2022 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key Features included: Introduced sensory-friendly pit lane walk for neurodiverse individuals at Formula 1® events, minimizing noise, lighting, and crowds. Established a sensory room for attendees with neurodiverse needs." Below that, in a purple box with black text, it reads, "A pioneering initiative for Formula 1® events worldwide" with an arrow to the right. On the right, a short video of an inclusive pit lane walk is shown.
01:03 – 01:07:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2023 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key Features included: Featured Auslan interpreters prominently at AusGP Sessions and Fan Q&A stages. In partnership with GSA, included a section in the online F1® Race Programme teaching F1® specific Auslan signs." On the right, two short videos play of an Auslan interpreter interpreting "Speed" and "Podium."
01:08 – 01:12:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2023 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key Features included: Featured Auslan interpreters prominently at AusGP Sessions and Fan Q&A stages. In partnership with GSA, included a section in the online F1® Race Programme teaching F1® specific Auslan signs." On the right, two short videos play of an Auslan interpreter interpreting "Corner" and a "Shoey."
01:13 – 01:17:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is split into two parts. On the left, a yellow background with black text as the title reads, "2024 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix." Below that, in a pink box with black text, it reads, "Key Features included: The introduction of closed captioning on all screens at the FORMULA 1 ROLEX AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2024." On the right, two short videos show closed captioning on screens across Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix.
01:18 – 01:22:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is yellow with black bold text in the center of the screen that reads, "The partnership between AUSGP and GSA showcases that disability inclusion is an ongoing effort, not just a one-off initiative. Together, we're committed to breaking down barriers for people with disability in this globally celebrated sport." Get Skilled Access logo is on the bottom right of the screen.
01:23 – 01:26:
[The screen transitions. Upbeat music continues to play.]
The screen is yellow with black bold text in the center of the screen that reads, "Let's podium inclusion and accessibility!" Get Skilled Access logo is big and in the center of the screen. "Contact GSA today for a consultation on disability inclusion and accessibility services." text appears at the bottom.
[MUSIC FADES AWAY]
[VIDEO ENDS]
The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) continues its reputation of delivering one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, casting an international spotlight on Melbourne. The Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix stands unparalleled in Australia, attracting a record attendance of over 400,000 over four days in 2024, including numerous visitors from interstate and overseas.
At GSA, we’re proud of our longstanding partnership with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC). Together, we’re committed to ensuring AGPC’s mission of delivering a world-class experience that’s inclusive and accessible for everyone. This collaboration between GSA and AGPC further enhances Melbourne’s already sterling reputation as a pivotal hub in the global motorsport arena.
Over the years, the tangible improvements and innovative solutions introduced at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix have not only enriched the experience for people with disability but also underscored the importance of accessibility in creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
This case study explores the dynamic partnership between GSA and AGPC, highlighting how our joint endeavours have markedly improved disability and accessibility amenities at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix.
GSA developed the 2020-22 Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), which outlined key accessibility enhancements such as free buses, accessible platforms and grandstands, improved changing facilities, and complimentary parking, among others.
Developed the 2022–2024 Disability and Inclusion Action Plan, aimed at enhancing Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix and Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix events, including updates like an accessible website and disability inclusion training for AGPC staff.
Auslan interpreters at the Fan Forum and AUSGP Sessions centre stage, alongside a dedicated section in the online F1® Race Programme for teaching Formula 1® specific Auslan signs.
In a groundbreaking initiative at the FORMULA 1 ROLEX AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2023, AGPC and Formula 1®, in partnership with GSA, introduced a low sensory pit lane walk. This allowed fans with sensory sensitivities to experience the F1 garages up close in a quieter, less crowded environment with reduced machinery use and engines off.
For the first time ever in a Formula 1® race worldwide, all the screens featured closed captioning alongside a comprehensive accessibility page. Essential services continued, including accessible tickets/parking, shuttle services, support from Travellers Aid, accessible toilets, and a Sensory Play Room, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees.
GSA collaborated with AGPC to introduce numerous accessible features at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix including:
A major highlight was the partnership with Guide Dogs Victoria to activate the BlindSquare app at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix for the first time in 2019, continuing into 2020.
This innovation marked the app’s debut at a major sporting event, specifically designed to assist blind and low vision attendees, significantly improving navigability and inclusivity at the event. These initiatives underlined AGPC’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and ensuring a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all attendees at the event.
(Source: AGPC Annual Report 2019 and AGPC Annual Report 2020)
We were proud to partner with AGPC again to enhance accessibility at both the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, as well as within the workplace.
The comprehensive plan focused on improving facilities and services for all guests, particularly those with disability. Our collaboration resulted in significant strides towards an inclusive environment that not only met but anticipated the changing needs and expectations of people with disability.
The consultation included a thorough review and consultation on the accessibility of the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix website, ensuring it was user-friendly for people with disability. Moreover, our involvement extended to organising disability inclusion training for AGPC staff, covering a wide array of topics such as Bias and Misconception and the Language of Disability, to enhance the event experience for all attendees.
(Source: AGPC Annual Report 2021 and AGPC Press Release)
AGPC enhanced their accessibility initiatives by ensuring the presence of Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreters in key areas such as the Fan Forum and AUSGP Sessions stage, significantly improving the experience for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing.
That year marked an exciting continuation of our dedication to accessibility, featuring Auslan interpreters prominently at both the AusGP Sessions live stage and the Fan Q&A stage, as outlined in the off-track schedule.
Additionally, in partnership with GSA, AGPC created a section within the online F1® Race Programme dedicated to teaching Formula 1® specific Auslan signs, further closing the accessibility gap for the deaf and hard of hearing community.
(Source: AGPC Annual Report 2022)
The continued implementation of AGPC’s Disability and Inclusion Action Plan, and partnership with Get Skilled Access (GSA), saw great gains in this space in 2023.
A standout program of this partnership is the Inclusive Pit Lane Walk, designed specifically for people with neurodiverse needs by working to reduce noise, lighting, patron numbers and overstimulation, thereby creating a more inclusive offering for a broader range of event attendees.
AGPC continued to utilise Auslan interpreters in high profile areas, such as the Fan Forum and the Main Stage and featured Auslan translations in the digital program.
(Source: AGPC Annual Report 2023)
GSA was delighted to collaborate with AGPC for 2024, a pioneer in advancing accessibility and inclusion. Over the years, we’ve seen notable advancements in their disability inclusion and accessibility services.
Key highlights included:
Currently, 5.5 million Australians, or over 21% of the population, have a disability, with 80% being non-visible. This number is expected to rise as baby boomers increasingly rely on assistive technology for community involvement. The growing popularity of the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix among patrons with disability highlights the importance of continued investment in accessibility and inclusion, ensuring the event remains enjoyable for everyone.
The partnership between AUSGP and GSA showcases that disability inclusion is an ongoing effort, not just a one-off initiative. Together, we’re committed to breaking down barriers for people with disability in this globally celebrated sport. Our collaboration focuses on making the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix accessible and enjoyable for all, demonstrating our dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for this iconic event.
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