United partner in Ingles Family Sensory Room launch

Melbourne United is excited to collaborate with KultureCity and Melbourne & Olympic Parks to launch a permanent Sensory Room at John Cain Arena.

Thanks to the generosity of Renae and Joe Ingles, who act as KultureCity board members, the upgraded sensory space will provide a quiet and safe space for people to deregulate from sensory overload.

This upgrade will also include a sensory certification, promoting inclusive and positive experiences for all guests who attend the precinct.

One in six individuals experience sensory sensitivities or challenges, which can be a barrier to attending live events. With its new certification, United and M&OP will be better equipped to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having a comfortable and enjoyable experience when attending events at the precinct.

Speaking about the announcement, Melbourne United CEO Nick Truelson touched on the importance of using the Ingles Family Sensory Room to create a truly inclusive environment for all Melbourne sporting fans.

"Our purpose at Melbourne United is to use the power of basketball to enrich the lives of our community, and this includes a strong focus on inclusion and diversity,” he said.

“That’s why it was such a priority for us to launch our sensory room last season; to help create the most welcoming environment in Australian professional sport.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be working alongside Renae and Joe Ingles, as well as KultureCity to provide whatever our supporters need to enjoy United basketball in the most inclusive way possible.”

All teams that play inside of John Cain Arena, including South Eeast Melbourne Phoenix, Melbourne Vixens, Collingwood Netball and Tennis Australia will all benefit from the upgrade.

To access the sensory room during a Melbourne United home game fans can sign up at the Club Desk located at the main entrance and a staff member will provide directions on where to go.