The forum explored the best practices for organisers to match the delegate demands revealed in the ICC Sydney RESPECT: Shaping Events for Success McCrindle report for curated and meaningful experiences that respect First Nations Peoples, promote accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and prioritise sustainability with the activation of ICC Sydney’s Legacy Program.
The top takeaways from leading community partners paving the way for engaging and inclusive events that resonate with attendees and communities alike are unveiled below.
1. Nature connections to First Nations culture and business
A proud Awabakal woman from Lake Macquarie and Supply Nation Chief Executive Officer, Kate Russell is committed to engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities to co-design programs using international best practices to make changes in policy to empower her community.
“Supply Nation empowers First Nations businesses by creating pathways for procurement that foster economic growth and honour and respect Indigenous culture and community. Supporting First Nations businesses is crucial for nurturing cultural resilience and community well-being. By investing in these enterprises through events, we forge a path for sustainable growth, fostering a future where Indigenous voices are heard and valued, ultimately leading to healthier, more vibrant communities,” Russell said.
2. Elevate your event by including emerging local musicians and creative talent
Talent Development Project Artistic Director, Peter Cousens, AM has vast experience in music and theatre as an award-winning actor and singer as well as a producer, director and teacher/trainer of actors and singers. He believes Sydney is a hotbed of high-quality artistic talent who can enhance every event.
“Young creatives today face a landscape fraught with challenges, from the rapid rise of AI to the streaming revolution that often undervalues their work. It’s essential to recognise these hurdles, as they can stifle innovation and passion.
“With the support of ICC Sydney and its event organiser clients, Talent Development Project advocates for a more sustainable ecosystem that values creativity and empowers artists to thrive in this evolving environment. Investing in the arts enriches our society by fostering creativity, enhancing cultural understanding, and driving community cohesion,” Cousens said.
3. Remove barriers for people with disabilities by making adjustments to your event
JT Strategic Solutions and Events Director, John Trevillian, AM champions the annual Elevate the Stage event that celebrates the United Nations International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD)—further developing Australia’s reputation as the preeminent destination for outstanding major events that are creative, innovative, inclusive, and accessible.
“To tackle unconscious bias, we must first cultivate awareness and actively seek diverse perspectives in our decision-making processes. The positive impact on the events industry is profound when we embrace diversity, we enhance creativity, drive innovation, and create experiences that resonate with a broader audience. Embedding visibility, representation, and accessibility into events is essential for creating an inclusive experience.
“Simple adjustments to an event can make a big difference such as those ICC Sydney provided for Elevate the Stage including a visual story to communicate the pathway to access the event, stage railings, access for performers in wheelchairs, ensuring AUSLAN interpreters are prominent, and live captioning and audio descriptions as part of the AV production,” Trevillian said.
4. Connect with trusted partners to create experiences that are environmentally responsible, culturally respectful and accessible
ICC Sydney Director of Corporate Affairs, Communications and Sustainability, Samantha Glass said that sustainability doesn’t exist in a bubble, and it is important to lean on partners with shared values and high-quality credentials.
“At ICC Sydney, we’ve taken the guesswork out of finding credible partners to help support intersectional positive impacts, from First Nations cultural inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability.
“Tapping into our Legacy Program’s Environmental Sustainability, First Nations, Creative Industries, Inclusion and Belonging, and Tech and Innovation streams, organisers can create experiences that are environmentally responsible, culturally respectful and accessible while accelerating community connection,” Glass said.
5. Set an intention, goals and actions to aid your environmental sustainability efforts
ICC Sydney Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Jess Zickar said organisers can turn the dial with small changes that make a big impact when it comes to environmental sustainability.
“Start somewhere, start small and start smart. It’s important to set a clear intention, goals and actions for your environmental sustainability efforts. The key is to lean into your strengths, keep it simple and do what is in your control.
“Organisers are welcome to access ICC Sydney’s resources including our Legacy Program, and Sustainable Events Guide for our top tips on how to create environmentally sustainable and carbon-friendly events,” Zickar said.
