The Sensory Room has been Launched for the 2023 season, providing an opportunity for individuals with disability to access a quiet space during Fremantle Dockers games at Optus Stadium.
The space has been developed in collaboration with people with disabilities after a pilot was implemented in 2022. The space includes a range of sensory activities and is a relaxing space to have a break away from the bright lights and loud noises of the Stadium.
This room is not currently a permanent space, but across 2023 we have created this space using an existing Parenting Room that prior to each game we transform into a relaxing sensory environment with a custom fit-out.
Created in collaboration with the Autism Association of WA, and Access without Barriers building company, the room contains dimmed lighting, tactile interactive resources, bean bags and sensory toys, noise-reducing headphones, quiet booths and a range of other resources.
We hope in the future we can secure a permanent space at the stadium.
FAQ's
Who is the room for?
Where is the room located?
How to register for the room
Sensory Bags
What to expect
Ticketing information
Who is the room for?
The room is for people who have sensory needs.
The room is open to children and adults, individuals with disabilities will be prioritised.
The room will have a staff member present at all times, however, no person under the age of 18 is to be left without a parent/guardian.
Where is the room located?
The room is located just off the main Level 1 concourse next to aisle 148/149.
The room is accessed by walking down the corridor facing away from the oval, between the toilets and the refreshments outlet. The room will be signposted from the concourse.
We understand that this location may not be close to where your seating is located. We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the location prior to the start of that game.
If purchasing general admission tickets, we suggest you take into account the location of the Sensory Room before booking tickets.
To find out more about the Optus Stadium facilities, please click here
How to register for the room
To access the room, you must fill in the registration and waiver form prior to entering the room.
We encourage all users to complete the registration form in advance prior to arriving at the Stadium, however, if you need to access the room on the day there will be some slots held for walk-in requests that will be accommodated where possible.
All users must agree to all terms and conditions and agree to the conditions of the waiver. By not agreeing or accepting the terms, you will not be able to access the room.
Sensory Bags
In addition to the development of the Sensory Room, the Fremantle Dockers have developed Sensory Bags that can be hired by an individual to support them to continue watching the game from their seat.
There are a limited amount of Sensory Bags available for hire free of charge from outside the Sensory Room on game day and can be used for the duration or portion of the game. To hire a bag, one form of ID or Debit/Credit Card will be required which will be returned once the bag is brought back.
There are 2 types of bags available, designed for different age groups. Each Sensory Bag contains:
· 1 pair of noise-reducing headphones
· Visual and tactile fidget toys
Please respect the resources in the bag, and we ask that you return them clean and in good working order.
What to expect
We understand that experiencing a live AFL game is more than just watching football.
There are many steps to take before you get to your seats at the game. These steps can bring new challenges and experiences in themselves and can be overwhelming to navigate.
The Autism Association of Western Australia has created this social story to help understand what you will see, feel and hear before and during your experience at the AFL game.
More information and resources can be found at The Autism WA Website: https://www.autism.org.au/creating-inclusive-communities/
Ticketing information
Registering for the Sensory Room does not provide the room user or any accompanying parent/guardian with a ticket to the football game. Please ensure you have a valid admission ticket for the game you are attending.
Tickets can be purchased either via general admission or with a membership package. We encourage you to purchase your ticket in advance of attending the game to ensure ticket allocation.
- For more information on how to become a Member please click here
- Or to purchase general admission tickets please click here
- For accessible seating please contact the membership team at the Fremantle Dockers. All contact information can be found here
- For additional information regarding Optus Stadium, public transport and accessible access please click here