Equal First is a series of straightforward initiatives designed to make the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games an event that welcomes all members of our community. It is aimed at young people, seniors, Indigenous groups, people with disabilities and ethnic groups.

In practical terms, Equal First is about making it easier to find out about, get to and take part in Games activities – from sports events to local festivals. Longer term, it aims to set a new benchmark for the level of accessability of all future major events.

Some of the initiatives of Equal First include:

• Making critical Games information available in various formats, particularly for people with vision and hearing impairments
• Free wheelchair-accessible shuttle bus services between public transport hubs like Flinders Street and key Games venues
• A mobility centre that offers low-cost equipment hire to make getting around the CBD easier
• Training for early school leavers, long-term unemployed and recent migrants to help them open new doors through volunteer opportunities
• Recognising and promoting Victoria's Celebrate our Cultural Diversity Week and the United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which coincide with the Games in 2006
• Extending the Companion Card scheme to Games events, enabling a support person to attend an event without paying for a second ticket
• Including a dedicated Youth Festival in the Games cultural program

Find out more in the Equal First strategy (PDF 592KB)

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