A new sensory room at Optus Stadium, constructed at a cost of $190,000, has been opened today.
The room, which was designed in consultation with the Autism Association of Western Australia and the Purple Hands Foundation, is located near aisle 149 at Optus Stadium and is available to all event patrons free of charge.
It features several design elements including noise-reducing carpet, bean bag seating, sensory toys and visual and communication supports.
Private booths with curtains offer a quiet retreat, while a softly lit, soundless TV allows guests to follow the event.
Operation of the sensory room is at the discretion of the venue hirer, and Fremantle, West Coast and the Western Australian Cricket Association have committed to using the facilities at all Dockers, Eagles and Perth Scorchers home games.
This design and construction followed extensive consultation with the Autism Association of Western Australia, the Purple Hands Foundation and several venues around Australia including RAC Arena, the MCG and Marvel Stadium.
Through the Purple Hands Foundation, the Fremantle Dockers provided their own sensory room at the venue as a trial in 2022 and throughout the 2023 season.
Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman said: “We have long celebrated Optus Stadium as a world class sports and entertainment venue, however it should be recognised that some elements that make this stadium great, including its audio-visual capabilities, may also create a barrier for others to attend.
“Sport brings people together, it can be played by all and enjoyed by all. By providing these fantastic sensory room facilities at Optus Stadium we are facilitating an environment that allows anyone to cheer on their favourite Dockers, Eagles or Scorchers players, or sing along with their favourite artists.
“We have already received feedback that there are Western Australians who have recently attended their first events at Optus Stadium because of these facilities, and VenuesWest and VenuesLive should be commended for considering the needs of all visitors to the stadium.”
Disability Services Minister Don Punch said: “It’s fantastic Optus Stadium has taken this important step in providing a calming environment for those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a game or concerts at the venue.
“It is estimated that 1 in 100 people in Australia have Autism – that’s enough people in Western Australia to fill Optus Stadium more than four times.
“There are thousands of people who can now join their fellow West Aussies to cheer on their favourite teams, or see a band like Coldplay, while knowing there is a place to take a break if things get overwhelming.”
