A ground-breaking initiative is transforming the live sports experience for countless families at Optus Stadium.

The Sensory Room, a permanent fixture resulting from the collaboration between the Purple Hands Foundation, Optus Stadium, the State Government, and the Autism Association of Western Australia, exemplifies the power of inclusivity in sports.

Through funding from the Purple Hands Foundation major partner uLaunch, Powered by AKG, this incredible inclusivity initiative continues to provide a safe haven for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families who otherwise would not be able to attend a football game.

Alana Bell, a member of the Inclusion team at the Autism Association of WA, has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, and has staffed the room for many Fremantle Dockers games over the last three years. Alana was present throughout the temporary trial period, continuously working with Freo fans who use the room to make it what it has become today.

With her extensive experience and passion for inclusivity, Bell offers unique insight into the profound impact of this space.

"The sensory room provides a safety net for families when it gets loud," Bell explains.

"It makes a huge difference knowing there's a place to retreat to."

Located near aisle 149, the room offers a calming environment away from the overwhelming sights and sounds of the stadium if needed.

The room's design includes:

• An open area with carpet flooring and bean bags
• Individual booths with floor-to-ceiling curtains
• Soft lighting and a mounted TV for watching events without sound
• Various sensory items like tactile wall panels and body socks
• Visuals, social stories and a soon-to-be-installed communication board

Bell recounts a touching story of a Freo family who, for the first time, could attend games together thanks to the sensory room.

"Dad came in and said, 'Thank you so much because this room has impacted our lives’, Bell explained.

“We can go out as a family now, when we could never go as a family before to games.’”

This sentiment is echoed by many families. Sally Galbraith, who travels 400km with her niece Lyntanna to attend games, found the room to be a game-changer.

“This space is a safe haven,” Sally said.

"It's the reason we still attend games."

The sensory room's impact extends beyond the physical space.

Bell and the Autism Association’s inclusion team were instrumental in developing take-to-seat sensory bags, allowing families to enjoy more of the game from their seats.

"Having the bags so families can go out and actually see some of the game is amazing," Bell noted as she emphasised the Sensory Room’s versatility.

"It's not just kids, we have adults as well who are on the spectrum who come in here."

This inclusivity aligns perfectly with Bell’s passion for creating spaces that cater to all.

One of the most rewarding aspects for Bell is the rapport she builds with regular visitors.

"It's been really nice to just get to know families at the footy," she said “I’m a huge Freo fan as well, so that’s always a great way to get to know people, and spark up conversations that grow into greater connections”

This connection allows her to provide tailored support, drawing from her professional experience.

The success of Optus Stadium's Sensory Room showcases the profound impact of thoughtful, inclusive design in public spaces.

It's not just about providing a quiet space, it's about creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy live sports, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

"We have come so far, but I think we have so much further to go as well,” Bell explained.

“I see how passionate Purple Hands Foundation is about the programs they deliver, always pushing for the best outcomes, and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together.”

The Sensory Room at Optus Stadium is a significant step in that journey, setting a standard for inclusivity. Major partner of Purple Hands Foundation, uLaunch, powered by AKG, reflected on the impact these initiatives can have.

Country Manager & MD Mark Burns says “uLaunch is proud to support this valuable initiative, which resonates deeply with our core values: that individuals living with a disability deserve every opportunity to lead strong, self-determined lives filled with confidence and pride. By offering such inclusive spaces, we are not merely enhancing personal experiences, but also fostering a more connected and thriving community for everyone.”

The Sensory Room has been brought to life through a true collaboration and goes a long way in assisting everyone to get along and enjoy the footy.