Around one in 70 Australians are autistic, and up to 95% experience sensory processing differences that make attending major events challenging. The risk of sensory overload can prevent autistic and neurodivergent people, and their families, from fully participating in the community, but that’s changing with the creation of South Australia’s first mobile sensory-friendly space.
The Sensory Bus gives visitors the opportunity to regulate their sensory experience in a safe and calming environment before re-engaging with the noises, lights, and scents of a crowded event. The Bus is staffed by qualified Autism SA staff and trained volunteers, and provides sensory regulation tools (including noise-reducing headphones, tactile sensory items, and visual communication supports).
The Sensory Bus has already started supporting inclusion at major events, including the OzAsia Festival, the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and City of Adelaide Christmas events. Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors saying that the Sensory Bus enables them to remain at events longer, and participate in events that might otherwise have been inaccessible to them.
“The Sensory Bus transforms events from overwhelming to accessible and welcoming for autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families,” says Helen Graham (CEO, Autism SA).
The Sensory Bus will be deployed at more than 15 events across metropolitan and regional South Australia each year, providing support to thousands of individuals and families.
The Sensory Bus was developed as an initiative of the Office for Autism (Department of the Premier and Cabinet), and is operated by Autism SA, with the support of foundation sponsors Kelsian Group and Torrens Transit. Learn more on the Autism SA website.
This story first appeared in Travel Without Limits. You can subscribe to the magazine here.
