Be Open to Sensory Safety
Find Sensory Safe Hours in Tasmania
Be Open for Autism: Register Sensory Hours
Why Does Sensory Safety Matter?
Between 69 and 95 percent of the 1 in 70 Australians who are autistic experience atypical sensory processing. Sensory processing differences affect how autistic people process and experience stimuli and sensory input. Inputs that neurotypical people don’t notice, can be overwhelming to autistic people or even cause physical pain.
Autistic people may also seek sensory input, like touching textures, stimming (repetitive movement or sound) or listening to music to help regulate their bodies and brains. If an autistic person is experiencing sensory dysregulation it can cause distress, anxiety and prevent access to social, community and work spaces.
Accommodations in stores and public spaces can help to reduce social isolation. Through a few easy changes a space can change from an inaccessible, overwhelming sensory experience to a safe and welcoming environment for those who experience sensory processing differences. Simple ways to accommodate sensory safety include:
- dimmed lighting
- lowered noise
- reduced strong smells &
- uncluttered walkways and clear signage
This campaign is an ongoing call to organisations and businesses in Tasmania to make an effort to be inclusive of our neurodivergent community members and commit to sensory safe hours. Despite launching in Autism Month, the call to act is not over when the month is. Accommodating and supporting all neurotypes and disabilities is everyone’s responsibility and we are excited for Tasmania to lead the way and say “We’re Open to Sensory Safety”
Registering sensory safe hours will mean:
- You are part of an exciting tidal wave of change in Tasmania to be part of providing accommodation for our autistic community to access the same social and community spaces that others can!
- Your registered sensory hours will be recorded by Autism Tasmania and published online for the autistic community to consult; they will also be available for our Advisory staff to share directly with community members contacting Autism Tasmania to find specific sensory friendly services.
- You will receive a communications packet from us that includes information and resources, a poster to display in your window, social media tiles and suggested social media text – all to directly let your patrons know of your commitment!
- The chance to join Autist Tasmania’s exclusive mailing list and access professional development programs for you and your staff to upskill your autism knowledge.
Find out more about Sensory Differences here.
Grow Your Understanding: Professional Development
We’re Here to Help! Request a Callback for Advice or Resources
“It doesn’t take much to jump on board, it’s so simple to do and affects everyone at once. It’s good to see customers safe, confident, and happy in your space and with accommodations they can feel comfortable straight away.”
“The feedback has been overwhelming with customers online loving it and customers thanking us in person for doing this.” Shawn – Thiccboi Collectables
“It’s all about making people comfortable, whatever works – just working with the autistic kids or adults who come in.” Bianca – Mimosa Hair
Is This Space Sensory Safe? – Top 10 Checklist
Support Autism Tas with a Donation
Autism Tasmania acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal people as the first inhabitants of the nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work. 
Our logo symbolises the rare native Tasmania orchid (Thelymitra or sun orchid). This fascinating plant is a significant part of the flora of Tasmania. It's flowers are blue, pink, or yellow. This logo inspires our mission. Just like the autism community, this extraordinary plant blooms "only when the conditions are right!"
