Accessibility
Valuing inclusion
The National Film and Sound Archive tells the Australian story in all its diversity. We recognise that disability and difference are important parts of our community and our history. As such, the NFSA values inclusion.
Our aim is to ensure all visitors to our Canberra building feel welcome and able to navigate our spaces as easily as possible.
Entering the NFSA (McCoy Circuit)
Wheelchair access
All areas within the NFSA are wheelchair accessible.
Wheelchair access to the building is available via Liversidge Street. There are accessible parking spaces on both sides of the building, off McCoy Circuit (see map).
A wheelchair is available from Reception, which can be requested on arrival. To book the wheelchair in advance, call (02) 6248 2000 during opening hours: 10am – 4pm.
| Area | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Liversidge Street building ramp | The ramp varies in width; the average width is approximately 1.24 metres, while the narrowest point is approximately 1 metre wide. |
| Distance from accessible parking | The distance from accessible parking to the entrance on Liversidge St is approximately 100 metres. |
Entering the NFSA (Liversidge St)
Accessible bathrooms
Accessible bathrooms are located on the McCoy Circuit side of the building, opposite the Theatrette, and on the Liversidge Street side of the building.
NFSA bathrooms are gendered.
| Area | Bathroom measurements (McCoy Cct side) | Bathroom measurements (Liversidge St side) |
|---|---|---|
| Floor space | 5.03 square metres | 5.89 square metres |
| Bathroom door | 0.84 metres wide | 0.91 metres wide |
| Distance from toilet to nearest wall | 0.40 metres | 0.27 metres |
| Distance from toilet to handrail | 0.31 metres | 0.17 metres |
Toilet facilities
Hearing assistance
There are T-Coil induction hearing loops available in Arc Cinema and the Theatrette. For further information about this service, please contact reception at +61 2 6248 2000.
Visual accessibility
Lighting options are customisable for venue hire requirements.
Unfortunately, Braille guides are not currently available.
Assistance animals
Assistance animals that are trained, registered and visibly identifiable are welcome at the NFSA when accompanied by their handler.
Wayfinding and signage
Access signage and wayfinding is provided at the McCoy Circuit and Liversidge Street entrances. Accessible parking is signed.
Universal access symbols are used on the NFSA website to identify accessible events.
Venue-specific accessibility
Arc Cinema
- Arc Cinema has three permanently available accessible seats.
- The stage is accessible via a ramp.
- Arc Cinema is fitted with a T-Coil induction hearing loop system.
- Arc Cinema is equipped with a Dolby Accessible Solution that allows patrons to access Closed Captions and Audio Description for DCP content with embedded accessibility features. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the advertised event time to allow our staff to assist with setup.
Theatrette
The Theatrette has two permanently available accessible seats. Another two accessible seats can be made available on request.
- The stage is accessible via a lift.
- The Theatrette is fitted with a T-Coil induction hearing loop system.
Arc Cinema accessibility
Disability Inclusion Action Plan
Accessible versions of our Disability Inclusion Action Plan are available in the following formats:
Hard copy formats are also available to borrow from reception, or contact:
Explore more
Plan your visit
See a film, enjoy lunch in the courtyard or explore the many free experiences throughout the heritage Art Deco building.
Getting to NFSA Canberra
The National Film and Sound Archive is located in Acton, close to the Australian National University. Find information on parking, transport and accessibility.
Arc Cinema
Classic Art Deco cinema presenting curated screenings, special events and shared film experiences.