30 Sensory Friendly Venues and Activities in Perth

Perth is the capital of the largest state in Australia, boasting an impressive array of natural wonders and urban attractions. With fabulous dining options, family-friendly attractions and activities, stunning beaches and over 3000 hours of sunshine a year, Perth has everything you and your loved ones need for an incredible holiday or day out.

Planning a day out with your family should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for everyone. Unfortunately, crowded places, bright lights, loud noises and strong smells can create a sensory nightmare for people on the autism spectrum. 

If you are looking for autism and sensory-friendly activities to do with your loved ones in Perth, look no further. We have compiled a list of some of the best activities, outings and events you and your family can enjoy.

With thorough planning and a supportive, sensory-friendly environment, your loved one with sensory needs will have a more inclusive, empowering experience. As an added bonus, you and the rest of your family will have more time and energy to enjoy the day without worrying about sensory overwhelm.

Read on to find out more about what sensory needs are, why they are important for people with autism, and a range of fun and sensory-friendly activities in Perth that the whole family will enjoy.

Understanding autism in Australia

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), aka autism, is a developmental condition that affects many parts of a person’s life. It may be diagnosed in childhood with signs and symptoms, such as delayed developmental milestones. However, some people are not diagnosed until later in life when social and developmental challenges become evident in school or work settings.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that autism affects around 1 in 150 people or around 164,000 total Australians. This number has risen significantly in recent years, from an estimated 64,400 autistic people in Australia in 2009. It is unclear whether this steep rise in diagnosis reflects a greater prevalence or if we simply understand the condition more and therefore diagnosing it more accurately and more often.

Autism has historically been severely underdiagnosed among certain populations, including girls and women. This is because there is no definitive medical test for diagnosing autism. Autism is diagnosed using developmental and behavioural observation. Recently, experts have understood that autism may present very differently in girls, women and non-binary individuals than it does in cis boys and men.

What challenges do people with autism face?

Autism is a form of neurodiversity. It does not mean the individual is somehow less capable or worthy of a fulfilling, independent life. Autism simply means the person may think, communicate, behave and experience emotions and sensory stimuli differently than someone without autism. 

The lack of widespread understanding and inclusive behaviour creates a form of disability for people with autism. The social model of disability explains that people with certain conditions are only disabled when they are in inaccessible or non-inclusive environments. When accommodations are made, such as including a wheelchair ramp or providing a sensory-friendly environment, people are enabled.

Some challenges that face people with autism, especially in non-sensory friendly environments, include the following.

• Higher rates and severity of anxiety
• Difficulty coping with change
• Social phobias or challenges
• Rigid behaviours and avoidance of change or spontaneity
• Controlling behaviours (oppositional defiance)
• Stimming (self-soothing behaviours such as rocking or hand flapping)
• Meltdowns or shutdowns when emotionally or sensorily overwhelmed
• Sensitivity to sensory stimuli such as sounds and bright lights.

What are sensory needs? 

Sensory issues or sensitivities are a common feature of people on the autism spectrum and are used as part of the diagnostic process. Sensory needs are different for every autistic person; what is triggering for one person may be fine for another. In general, autistic people may have sensory sensitivities relating to:

• Sights
• Sounds
• Touch
• Smells
• Tastes
• Balance (vestibular)
• Spacial awareness of their body in relation to other people and objects (proprioception)
• The internal awareness of body sensations and cues e.g. hunger or cold (interception).

Every autistic person experiences sensory issues differently. They may experience hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to a wide range of sensory stimuli. These sensitivities are part of the person’s individual neurology. It is not a choice or the person just being fussy.

In people with hyposensitivity, sensory seeking can be comforting and pleasant. It might look like seeking out bright colours, touching things with interesting textures, or seeking out foods with a specific flavour, texture or temperature. Some risks of hyposensitivity include being unaware of risks like extreme temperatures or excessively loud noise.

People with hypersensitivity may find certain public spaces overwhelming. They may avoid coming into contact with bright lights, crowds, or loud noises. Being in an overstimulating environment can quickly become distressing, leading to sensory overload. Sensory overload causes some parts of the brain to shut down because it is consumed by responding to the sensory stimulus. Sensory overload can stop autistic people from being able to communicate or interpret information effectively. 

How do you know if someone is experiencing sensory sensitivities?

While every person with autism is different, some common signs that a person is experiencing a sensory issue include:

• Increased movement or restlessness
• Increased stimming (such as hand flapping, making repetitive noises or rocking)
• Changes in speech (talking louder, faster, or not talking at all)
• Covering eyes or ears
• Reduced interoception (e.g. unaware of cold, hunger, or continence needs)
• Frequent touching of others
• Communication challenges
• Overwhelming emotion and sometimes the need to escape (known as a shutdown).

The importance of accessible, inclusive and sensory-friendly activities for people with autism

No one deserves to miss out on all the joys of life due to a disability or sensory sensitivity. As a society, it is our responsibility to ensure equitable access and inclusion for all people in our community. This includes inclusive and accessible education, employment opportunities, physical access to public spaces and appropriate housing, and access to urban venues and social activities. 

Access and inclusion is no longer an optional factor, but a human right that businesses, governments and individuals must work together to uphold. Without adequate accessibility and inclusive practices, people with disability are at greater risk of isolation, discrimination, and poor social, emotional and physical health and wellbeing. 

Is Perth an autism-friendly city?

In the City of Perth, over 95,000 residents reported having a disability, including people with autism, though this number may be higher due to reporting issues. Access not only benefits people with disability but with all of their friends, family members, caregivers, colleagues and service providers, many people in Perth benefit from greater accessibility and inclusion.

The City of Perth is responsible for overseeing the delivery of programs to improve access for people with disability in the region. One key piece of policy that guides this work is the City of Perth’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) 2021-2025. This four-year plan is the latest iteration of the local government’s efforts to create inclusive, equitable experiences for all residents regardless of ability. Note that if you require a printed or accessible version of this plan, you can request one by contacting the City of Perth at (08) 9461 3333.

Perth’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan outlines key priority areas and strategies to improve inclusion and access for people with disability who live, work, study or visit Perth. Its goal is to improve the quality of life for people with disability as well as their loved ones and caregivers.

The Autism Association of Western Australia is the city’s peak body for autism information, resources and support. They support people on the autism spectrum and their friends, family and caregivers to participate fully in all that Perth and greater Western Australia has to offer. They can support you with receiving a diagnosis, accessing therapies and support services, as well as navigating your local area to participate in recreational and community events.

Accessibility and inclusion in Perth have come a long way, so there has never been a better time to get out and explore all the city has to offer. 

10 sensory-friendly in-home activities in Perth

Here are just some of the sensory-friendly venues and activities you can enjoy with your loved ones, either at home or out and about in the city of Perth.

Sensory-friendly activities at home for people with autism

For days when the weather, timing or other limitations make it difficult to go out, there are plenty of sensory-friendly activities and games you can play with your loved one from the comfort of your own home. Here are some ideas for activities to do with someone with autism at home.

1. Scratch and sniff art project

Scratch and sniff activities are great for stimulating your loved one’s senses of sight, smell and touch. Use a few different flavours of their favourite jelly or gelatin mixed with a tablespoon of craft glue. Let your loved one paint shapes on some cardboard or craft paper. Once it dries, you can both enjoy scratching at different colours on the sheet and smelling the fruity flavours come through.

2. Playdough 

Playdough is popular among kids and big kids alike. It is also particularly enjoyable for some people with certain sensory needs. The tactile sensations of squishing and pinching play dough are fun and can even help improve fine motor skills. If the smell of store-bought play dough upsets your loved one, there are plenty of recipes for homemade and even edible versions online.

3. Puzzles

Doing puzzles can be a relaxing pastime to do with your loved one. It can help regulate elevated emotions and improve fine motor skills. Placing the puzzle pieces can also improve visual-spatial processing abilities.

4. At-home ball pit

Most kids flock to the ball pit at indoor play centres. Luckily, it’s a lot easier than you might expect to create one at home. Plastic ball pit balls are available for a relatively low cost online. Fill an inflatable kiddie pool and you have yourself a ball pit at home. 

5. Dance party

Put on music that your loved one enjoys and have fun dancing around together. Dancing is a great, non-verbal way to express emotion and release energy. 

6. Sensory boxes

Some people with autism have particular sensations that are relaxing, fun and soothing. Filling a box with your loved ones favourite texture, such as water, rice or sand is a great way to appeal to their sensory needs from home.

7. Play twister

Twister is a fun way to help your loved one develop their gross motor skills and proprioception (spatial awareness). It can be quieter than other games, making it great for people who are sensitive to noise.

8. Finger and food painting

Finger painting is a creative way to create visually appealing images while enjoying the tactile sensation of moving your fingers through paint. If your loved one tends to touch their mouth often, ensure to use a non-toxic (or edible!) paint. You can even use certain foods like tomato paste, yoghurt or chocolate pudding.

9. Physical education (PE) games at home

Traditional sports and recreation can be overwhelming for some people with autism. The crowds, loud noises and complex instructions can pose a barrier to their full participation and enjoyment. Why not set up some fun, physical games in your home to keep them fit and healthy whilst also having a great time together. Check out this list for some fun ideas to try for yourself.

10. Baking sweet treats or cooking healthy meals

Some people with autism have limited or selective food preferences. Making your loved one’s favourite dish or treat is a great way to improve their independent living skills. They may also enjoy tasting things along the way and using their hands to mix ingredients.

Sensory-friendly venues and activities in Perth

If you want to head out of the house and explore the city, there are plenty of sensory-friendly options for you and your loved one to enjoy together. Here are just some of the sensory-friendly venues and activities available in Perth.

10 Indoor sensory-friendly activities

1. Rocky Bay Sensory Rooms

Delight your senses at one of four Rocky Bay Sensory Rooms, located at Mosman Park, Nollamara and Duncraig.

Rocky Bay’s state-of-the-art Sensory Rooms are designed to increase sensory stimulation, enabling people with disability to interact with and control their environment in a gentle and relaxing way.

2. Lakeside Joondalup Paw Patrol Sensory Sessions

Autism Association of Western Australia has partnered with Lakeside Joondalup to provide holiday activities for children with additional needs. This special session, which is run outside of normal trading hours, includes a mask-making activity as well as a meet and greet with the characters from the show.

3. Grand Cinemas, Armadale

Located on the corner of Jull Street and Third Road Armadale, just 200m from Armadale Train Station. Grand Cinemas offer assistance for hearing-impaired customers, sensory-friendly sessions for people with autism and other sensory needs, and wheelchair access via lift. 

4. Ace Cinemas, Midland

Located at 274 Great Eastern Hwy, Midland WA 6056, inside the Midland Gate shopping centre. Ace Cinemas offer closed caption screenings, hearing assistance and wheelchair accessibility in addition to sensory-friendly screenings and companion card discounts.

5. Rocky Bay Building Buddies

Taking place every school holiday, this group uses LEGO building therapy as a tool to develop verbal and non-verbal communication, sharing, turn-taking and several other positive social and communication outcomes.

6. Rocky Bay Gaming Group

This social skills group uses the popular computer game Minecraft™ as a fun way to help children understand the logic behind why people are expected to act a certain way in the game. This therapy group aims to aid children to apply this logic to real-world situations, as well.

7. Art Gallery of Western Australia Quiet Tuesdays

The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) has teamed up with the Autism Association of Western Australia (AAWA) to offer Quiet Tuesdays in 2022. You and your loved one can enjoy the sights and exhibitions without the loud noises and sensory overstimulation. Sessions and bookings are limited so book ahead to avoid disappointment.

8. Tactile Tours at His Majesty’s Theatre

His Majesty’s Theatre offers tactile tours for its patrons. You will be escorted onto the set to get an idea of the dimensions and will be able to touch the props being used on stage, and will also be able to handle the costumes being worn by the actors. This is by appointment only, so make sure to call ahead to arrange your visit.

9. Sensory Backpacks at Western Australia Museum Boola Bardip

This amazing hub of art and culture now offer sensory backpacks every day. Available upon arrival at the Museum, you can loan a backpack free of charge to help to support you and your child in making the most of your visit. Each backpack will include several resources for self-regulation, tactile input, attention focusing and body awareness support. These include visual support stories, sand timers, ear defenders, fidget toys and more. Upon arrival, simply ask about our Sensory Backpacks at the front desk and our team can loan you a backpack for the duration of your visit (available on a first come first serve basis).

10. Sensory Sessions at Little Land

Little Land offers a scaled-down version of the real world – inspiring your child to learn through role-play. In collaboration with AAWA, Little Land now offers sensory-friendly sessions that you and your loved ones can enjoy.

10 outdoor sensory friendly activities

1. Sam’s Playground Warradale Park Landsdale

It features lots of accessible and sensory-friendly play equipment.

2. Walking, running or jogging by the beach

Coogee’s beautiful Maritime Trail offers fun for the whole family, with lots of pleasant sights and smells. Go during off-peak times for fewer crowds and sensory stimuli.

3. Hiking at Kitty’s Gorge, Serpentine National Park

Recommended going during off-peak times to enjoy the gorgeous sites and wildlife at this gorgeous National Park.

4. Pia’s Place, Whiteman Park

It is one of Perth’s newest all-abilities playgrounds, Pia’s Place has a huge array of play equipment and sensory-friendly attractions.

5. Araluen Botanic Park

Considered one of Perth’s best-hidden gems, Araluen Botanic Park is located at 362 Croyden Rd, Roleystone, about 40 minutes drive from Perth’s Central Business District. Explore 59 hectares of native gardens, manicured landscapes and waterfalls. The park offers accessible entry, mobility equipment available for hire and mapped trails accessible by wheelchair or scooter.

6. Western Australia Botanic Garden

Engage all of your senses as you roam these beautiful gardens. Enjoy the sights of the beautiful plant life, listen to the amazing native birds and enjoy the feeling of the grass beneath your feet. The fresh air and gentle exercise will make you feel amazing.

7. Try an all-abilities cricket session

The Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) offers come-and-try days for all abilities. You can meet with members of the Autism in Cricket Team and WACA staff and find out more about how to get involved with one of Australia’s favourite sports.

8. Nearer to Nature Program

Nearer to Nature offers community activities to people living in the Perth area and across diverse areas within Western Australia. Supported by the Western Australian Government Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the program provides a unique opportunity for children and adults of all abilities to connect with the beautiful nature and wildlife in the region’s parks. From school-based activities to Bush Ranger programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Find out more about this program or book activities online to get your loved one out and about, experiencing the healing benefits of nature.

9. Enjoy a relaxing day of all abilities golf

Empower Golf is for all abilities—enabling an introduction to golf, or reintroduction to the game. Join a friendly and relaxed Come and Try Clinic; golf clubs, balls and tees will be provided. No one is ever ‘compelled’ to participate but all are encouraged. Friends, family, partners or carers are always welcome at a Come and Try.

10. Meet all the animals at Perth Zoo

Everyone loves a day out at the Zoo. To prepare yourself and your loved one, Perth Zoo has partnered with AAWA to provide social stories. This tool helps prepare your loved ones for what to expect upon their visit. You can then enjoy all the sites and attractions with more freedom and less worry.

Helpful links

To find out more about sensory-friendly activities in Perth get in touch with one of the below local organisations.

• @autismfriendlyperth (Instagram page)
• Autism Association of Western Australia
• Autism Alliance

How Homage can help

Do you need care support for Companionship or Social and Community Participation? Homage support people with disabilities to pursue their interests and passions. Our Care Professionals ensure you and your loved ones can participate in the social and community activities you love.