A visit to the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) can pose unique challenges for those with accessibility needs. QAGOMA proudly champions access and inclusion, inspiring visitors of all abilities to create lasting connections with art.

Through its ongoing commitment to Access programs, such as September Access Month, low-sensory viewings, tours for visitors with hearing loss, and low or no vision, and an award-winning Art and Dementia program, to name just a few, the Gallery strives to create a truly inclusive space for the whole community.

Art and Dementia

QAGOMA’s Art and Dementia Program began in 2014. The award-winning program is a participant-focused gallery experience designed for visitors living with dementia and their care partner. Slow art viewing of selected artworks incorporates specially curated visual, auditory and narrative prompts that stimulate exploration and reflection. The therapeutic creative making activity invites relaxation and socialisation, supports autonomy, and encourages meaningful engagement. The program is suitable for all visitors who are diagnosed with neurodegenerative disease, including specific dates for people living with younger onset dementia.

Auslan Interpreted

For some 20 years, Auslan interpreted tours have been available at the Gallery. Free volunteer guided tours for members of the d/Deaf community are scheduled on the last Sunday of the month from January to November. A NAATI accredited Auslan interpreter accompanies our guide on these tours.

Hearing Loss

Visitors with a cochlear implant, hearing aid or hearing loss are invited to join a small group tour led by a volunteer guide. Assistive listening devices (FM system) are available and tours are scheduled on the fourth Friday of the month from January to November.

Low Vision or No Vision

Audio-described tours offer a narrated description of the visual elements of selected artworks. A tactile experience is also included where possible. Tours are available for small groups and individuals.

Tour for visitors with low or no vision featuring the butterflies and moths from Black Cloud 2007/2018 by Carlos Amorales / Photograph: J Ruckli ©QAGOMA — Tour for visitors with low or no vision featuring the butterflies and moths from *Black Cloud* 2007/2018 by Carlos Amorales / Photograph: J Ruckli ©QAGOMA / View full image

Hidden Disability Sunflower Program

To support visitors with non-visible disabilities, QAGOMA is a member of the international Hidden Disability Sunflower Program. The Hidden Disability Sunflower is a simple tool for visitors to voluntarily share that they have a non–visible disability or condition that is not immediately apparent. Anyone with a hidden disability or their carer or support person can collect and wear a Sunflower lanyard from the Information Desk on arrival at the Gallery.

Low Sensory/Relaxed Viewing

Since 2017, low sensory viewing has been scheduled for major exhibitions and on selected days throughout the year. Autistic visitors and people with sensory sensitivity or disability are invited to experience the Gallery in a relaxed environment, and where possible, outside of usual gallery hours. Volumes within the exhibition spaces are lowered or turned off where possible. Sensory Kits are available for use free of charge whilst in the Gallery. Each kit contains a number of resources for self-regulation and calming. Collect a Sensory Kit from the Information Desk on arrival at the Gallery.

Physical and/or Cognitive impairment

Tours are suited to small groups and tailored to the needs of group members.

Customise your visit

QAGOMA offers customised programs and events that give visitors with disability the opportunity to connect with art in a safe and supported setting. Its Group Bookings Office can help plan a visit and explain how to tailor an experience specific to your needs or for those in your care. Volunteer guided tours for visitors with disability are available between February and November and are free unless otherwise advertised.

Information for your visit

Onsite Access & Parking
Mobility impaired and wheelchair access is available to both the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. Accessible parking bays are located in the Cultural Centre car parks.

Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are available free of charge for use during a visit. To make a booking, contact the Information Desk between 10.00am and 5.00pm on 07 3840 7303.

Assisted Hearing
A hearing loop system is installed in the Australian Cinémathèque at GOMA. Headphones or neck loops are available for visitors with cochlear implants or hearing aids. Enquire at the GOMA Information Desk on arrival.

Companion Cards
Companion Card holders receive concession priced tickets to all paid exhibitions and selected programs, and a complimentary ticket for their companion.

Assistance Dogs
Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are welcome.

Contact us

For all Access programs queries, contact the Group Bookings Office Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.00pm. A minimum of 15 days booking notice is required to arrange a tour.
Telephone: 07 3840 7255
Email: groupbookings@qagoma.qld.gov.au
Check What’s On Event Calendar for dates.

Featured image: Tour for visitors with low or no vision featuring Henrique Oliveira’s Corupira 2023, commissioned for ‘Fairy Tales’, Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) Brisbane 2023-24 / © Henrique Oliveira / Photograph: C Callistemon ©QAGOMA