Accessibility information for
all visitors and members of the National Zoo and Aquarium.
The National Zoo and Aquarium is proudly accredited by the Australian Tourism Industry Council for both Limited Mobility and Wheelchair & Scooter Access. These accreditations confirm that key areas of the zoo have been independently assessed to support visitors using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or with reduced mobility, including accessible paths, facilities, seating and amenities. The zoo provides a range of services and facilities for those with mobility and accessibility requirements. We provide detailed accessibility information so guests can make informed decisions about their visit, with a full public guide available to view before arrival. Click on the icons below to review the Public Accessibility Guide.
our facilities
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To support visitors with limited mobility, the National Zoo & Aquarium offers a number of mobility scooters for hire. As availability is limited, we strongly encourage advanced bookings to avoid disappointment. To reserve a scooter, please call 02 6287 8400 or contact us via email. On arrival, a valid form of identification is required, and a hire form must be completed before use.
Please note that hire charges apply to help cover ongoing maintenance and repair costs. The current hire rates are:
$30 for up to 4 hours, plus $5 per additional hour thereafter
Members receive a discounted rate of $20 plus $4 per additional hour
These charges remain lower than the rates generally charged at comparable venues.
For safety reasons, only one person may ride a mobility scooter at a time, and children are not permitted to operate them. We kindly ask that all users treat the scooters with care to ensure they remain available for everyone who may need them.
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The National Zoo & Aquarium has created a Social Story to help visitors prepare for their day at the zoo. This resource is especially helpful for neurodiverse visitors, children, or anyone who may feel more comfortable knowing what to expect in advance.
Social Stories use simple language, step-by-step explanations, and supportive visuals to explain what visitors may see, hear, and do during their visit. This can reduce anxiety, provide reassurance, and make the day easier to navigate.
Our Social Story includes:
A series of photographs and descriptions, showing what guests may encounter throughout the zoo
Practical guidance to help visitors understand what will happen, and how they can respond
By offering predictability and clarity, the Social Story ensures that everyone can feel more confident and comfortable during their time at the zoo
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The National Zoo & Aquarium (NZA) welcomes visitors accompanied by assistance dogs that have completed their official training. As the zoo is also a quarantine facility, dogs are ordinarily not permitted on site. However, we are proud supporters of IntegraDogs and have worked closely with them to develop specific procedures that allow trained service dogs to visit safely, while ensuring the wellbeing of our animals and compliance with biosecurity requirements.
Please note that untrained or non-service animals cannot be admitted under any circumstances.
To ensure the safety and comfort of all our animals, staff, and guests, advance bookings are required for visits with assistance dogs. NZA will always endeavour to accommodate and expedite visits wherever possible.
For the most efficient service, we recommend sending an email here with your phone number included. A staff member familiar with our assistance dog policies will then call you to discuss the necessary arrangements.
If email is not possible, please call 02 6287 8400. If the appropriate staff member is unavailable at the time, kindly leave your contact number and we will return your call as soon as possible.
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There are a number of designated accessible parking spaces available for use by visitors with a disability. These spaces are located close to each entry of the zoo, including both the main entrance, the secondary members entrance and Rhino Bistro entry, ensuring convenient access for all members and guests.
Parking is free for all National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge visitors. Please note that vehicles parked in these spaces for purposes other than visiting the zoo or lodge will be towed, with substantial fees incurred by the driver.
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A full tour of the National Zoo & Aquarium involves a fair amount of walking. While many visitors find this easy to manage, we understand that it can be more challenging for some, especially for those with limited mobility or families with young children.
To make your visit more enjoyable, you are welcome to split your experience over two days. You can explore one section of the zoo on your first visit, and then return any time within the next two weeks to see the remaining section. This allows you to take your time without feeling rushed or fatigued.
Parking is generally available near the entry points for both sections, making it convenient to start your visit from either area.
For more information about this option, please see our Two Day Pass details here.
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Most areas of the National Zoo & Aquarium are accessible by wheelchair, allowing visitors to enjoy the wide range of exhibits and experiences. The paths throughout the zoo are generally well-maintained and suitable for mobility aids.
Please note that the zoo grounds do include some steep inclines. To make your visit easier, we recommend following the designated Adventure Trail, which avoids these areas and provides the most accessible route around the site. Signage is in place to guide visitors along this pathway, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience.
If you require additional assistance, our staff are always happy to provide guidance or support during your visit. The National Zoo and Aquarium are Quality Tourism Accredited in Wheelchair and Scooters.
