The Newcastle Entertainment Centre aims to be accessible and welcoming to all. Specific provisions have been made available for patrons with disabilities including:
- Easily accessed seating areas available for every event. Due to varying staging configurations, the location of accessible seating may change and capacity limits will be in place.
- Tickets for patrons and carers are on hold and can be purchased by emailing admin@nec.net.au until the event sells out. Please include your phone number so we can call you to book tickets.
- It is important at the time of purchasing tickets, to indicate that you require accessible seating so a seat is allocated that suits your individual requirements. On the event day, if prior contact has not been made, we may not be able to accommodate you due to spacing constraints. Requests made on event days are also subject to availability and if no availability is present, tickets remain subject to the Terms and Conditions of Sale.
- For popular events, wheelchair bookings may be limited to a maximum of two (2) per customer to allow other accessible patrons a chance to book. Accessible bookings are subject to the ticket limits applicable for the event. Details on ticket limits will be listed on the Ticketek event page.
- Please note that the size of the wheelchair will impact the location of your seats. It is important that you disclose if the wheelchair is large, motorised or a standard wheelchair. A standard wheelchair is a self-propelled mobility device with dimensions – Width 760mm x Depth 1220mm x Height 760mm.
- Companion Card bookings are available through the Box Office for most events, please email admin@nec.net.au for bookings and enquiries. The cardholder will be required to provide the details on their valid Companion Card at the time of booking, then present the card in person to staff upon arrival on event day to collect their (free) companion ticket.
- To be issued with a free carer ticket, you must make it known at the time of booking that you, or the person you are booking for has a Companion Card. A free carer ticket cannot be issued after your booking has been finalised.
- The Newcastle Entertainment Centre is happy to help with vision impaired seating. Please email admin@nec.net.au with your phone number and we can call to discuss pricing and availability.
- Animals or pets of any kind are prohibited with the exception of accredited service animals and service animals in training for guests with disabilities. Accredited service animals are always welcome inside the venue and at all times must display their companion vest/lead for ease of identification. Please email admin@nec.net.au to book tickets so we can ensure you are sold the most appropriate seating location for the comfort and ease of both patron and animal.
- Please note that the Newcastle Entertainment Centre is not equipped with a hearing loop or any devices to assist the hearing impaired at this stage, however, some events do offer an AUSLAN interpreter.
- Sensory Oasis Headphones are available at Reception for people with neurological behavioural disorders and also people who become overwhelmed by noise, crowds and other sensory input. Not all disabilities are visible, headphones provided by #thinkoutsidethesquare, for more information please go to www.thinkoutsidethechair.com.au.
- Newcastle Entertainment Centre is proud to have joined the Hidden Disability Sunflower Program as part of our commitment to supporting staff and guests living with non-visible disabilities. By wearing sunflower themed merchandise such as a lanyard, lapel or wristband, people with hidden disabilities can discreetly signal to others they may need help, understanding or alternative communication methods as they go about their day. Sunflower merchandise is available at Reception. For more information, click here.
- Disabled rest rooms are located throughout the Centre and externally in the forecourt.
- A wheelchair is available at reception should you require assistance to and from your vehicle.
- The closest drop off point for patrons with accessibility requirements is Brown Road.
- Three (3) accessible parking spaces are available on Brown Road directly in front of the entrance to the Showground.
- Accessible parking is available on site and car park attendants will direct pass holders to closest available space, entry via Griffith Road.