The AFL Preferred Facility Guidelines should be used to inform the provision and development of appropriate venues, facilities, and amenities for local level football. The Guidelines provide a consolidated resource to assist stakeholders in the planning and development of welcoming, inclusive and sustainable facilities.
It is acknowledged that many existing venues may not meet the preferred levels of provision documented within the Guidelines. However, it is not intended that these Guidelines be used as a basis for assessing the suitability of all existing venues. Rather, should existing venues be considered for upgrade or improvement, then where possible, the Guidelines should be used as a road map for future development.
A sensory space is an intentionally designed space that people can access to regulate their systems. In the context of a stadium venue, the space aims to offer a calm environment removed from loud noise and crowded spaces, whilst also providing purposeful equipment and activities that supports people to access sensory input that has a regulating effect on them.
The aim of these Guidelines is to define a strategy to include the benefits of a sensory space in stadium venues, events and communities and to outline the steps and considerations in designing and implementing Sensory Spaces. This can be facilitated through a Sensory Room Proper; a permanent space within the venue itself, a Mobile Sensory Space; van or trailer, or a temporary Sensory Space; outdoor marquee or temporary function space fit out.