• STAIRCLIMBER/WHEELCHAIR USERS

The entrance to our main auditorium is up two levels. There is a staff-operated lift to the first level and then a stairclimber for wheelchair users and those who require no to the next level. Please make yourself known to staff if you or someone you’re attending with requires its usage.

Please note that our stair climber has a weight limit of 200 kgs so may not be suitable for large motorised wheelchairs or scooters.

Seats J6 – 9 and J44-47 are best for those that require flat entry as there is room for wheelchair users to either transfer to those seats or remain in their wheelchair, please note if remaining in a wheelchair or mobility device, a ticket holder may be asked to  position themselves in between the front and rear seating in the auditorium. which is considered a bay rather than part of the seating bank.

In this instance, a free-standing chair is available to be placed next to a person using a wheelchair or mobility aide. 

These seats, if available, are able to book online or over the phone. However, we do encourage you to discuss with the venue first, especially if it’s your first time visiting the venue. You can reach us by calling 9525 4611 or by emailing boxoffice@nationaltheatre.org.au to book these seats or if you have any questions about our stairclimber and access.

Our smaller performing space Studio 2, is currently accessible for wheelchair users.

• STAFF OPERATED LIFT

We have a staff-operated lift connecting Ground Level to the Mezzanine Level. Please seek assistance from a staff member for service lift access. The lift journey takes approximately 2 minutes each way and has a maximum capacity of 350 kg

• ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

There is one accessible toilet available on the Mezzanine Level; however, there are no designated accessible toilets on the Auditorium level or the Ground floor.

Please let a member of staff know if you need assistance.

• ACCESSIBLE SEATS

The most accessible seating in The National Auditorium (after getting to mezzanine level) is located in Row J, which is a flat floor (after 26 steps or stairclimber use).

• PARKING

There is varied street and commercial parking available around The National.  View our map for recommended parking options below. Please always check signage.

The closest multi-story paid parking is located at Acland Court Village.

The National Theatre is located at 20 Carlisle St (corner of Carlisle and Barkly St), St Kilda 3182.

• PUBLIC TRANSPORT

TRAVEL BY TRAM

Tram No. 16 and 3a stop out the front of the Theatre at stop 33.

The No. 96 tram stops at Luna Park which is a 350 metre walk to the Theatre.

TRAVEL BY TRAIN

Balaclava Station is a 15-minute walk (1200 metres) from the Theatre.

Access to the first floor is via our grand staircase or staff-operated lift, the second level into the auditorium is via a staircase (26 steps), or a stairclimber for wheelchair users and those who require no steps to the next level.

If you require specific seats due to accessibility requirements, for any questions around access, to indicate any requirements around a booking already made or to enquire about companion card bookings please contact the box office.

Please note if the event you are attending is ticketed externally your first instance should be to contact that supplier for booking enquiries, as the venue we may not have access to your tickets or be able to sell, refund, exchange or re-issue them, however we can provide information about the venue

• INTERNALLY TICKETED EVENTS

For all internally ticketed events, the National Theatre accepts companion card bookings.

These can be booked by calling the Box Office on 9525 4611 or emailing boxoffice@nationaltheatre.org.au

• EXTERNALLY TICKETED EVENTS

External ticketing providers have different arrangements for both accessibility and companion card bookings. There will be a link to further information by the ticketing provider next to the book now button if this is the case.

Guide and Support dogs are more than welcome at The National Theatre. We recommend booking your seats in Row J for extra room and a flat floor. If you require assistance or information prior to your attendance please contact the Box Office. 

LIGHTING

Our auditorium, Studio 2 and other events have low lighting levels as needed for performances. If you require assistance please contact our box office prior to your attendance.

HEARING AID FREQUENCY

The National Theatre offers a Hearing Assistance System that allows patrons who use hearing aids to tune into the frequency of the venue. 

These are available upon request at the box office.

LOCATIONS

One is located on the ground floor and the other is located on the upper mezzanine – Gertrudes Lounge.

The ground floor candy bar is the most accessible for patrons who may need assistance or use a wheelchair. 

• FOYER TOILETS

Located on the ground floor, the Male toilets are situated to the right of the main staircase, opposite side to the candy bar.

Female toilet stalls are located further down from the Men’s following through the double doors to the right hand side, there is a foyer with seating and mirrors.

• MEZZANINE LEVEL TOILETS

We have adjacent male and female toilets stalls located on the upper mezzanine level (In Gertrude’s Lounge located in the upper mezzanine). 

• ACCESSIBLE TOILET

There is one accessible toilet available on the mezzanine located next to the staff operated lift.

At The National Theatre, we are committed to improving every moment of our visitor experience and to ensuring all members of the community feel welcome, safe, respected and valued.

The Rainbow Relief Fund will help us to bring our historic restrooms into the 21st Century with more toilets, new basins, a gender neutral bathroom, new tiles and a fresh coat of paint.

At this time, the cloak room services are not available, however any bulky items including prams can be left at the box office and can be collected at the end of the performance.