The Australian Museum in Sydney is running a series ‘sensory friendly mornings for young visitors on the autism spectrum. Coinciding with the upcoming First Nations-led exhibition Unsettled and the winter school holidays, the free Early Birds program will be held on Saturday July 10 from 8am-10am. 

The program provides a sensory friendly, relaxed, and supportive environment for visitors to explore the museum prior to its opening to the public. This can make visiting the museum easier for those on the autism spectrum or who have other access requirements, together with their family and friends.

CEO, Kim McKay said the Australian Museum is committed to creating a place where everyone can be inspired to explore and understand its natural and cultural worlds. “We have worked with Autism Spectrum Australia and the autistic community to make this event as accessible as possible and to break down barriers that might hinder people with sensory sensitivities or access requirements from visiting,” she said. 

Visitors to Early Birds will be able to enjoy:

  • Staff trained in autism awareness and disability
  • Reduced crowds and associated noise
  • A designated quiet area for those needing to take a break
  • A Visual Story with more details on what to expect (PDF)
  • A kiosk for an early morning beverage or snack
  • Access to various exhibitions, including:
    • Unsettled
    • First Nations Gallery: Bayala Nura (Yarning Country)
    • First Nations Gallery: Garrigarrang (Sea Country)
    • Wild Planet
    • Westpac Long Gallery: 200 Treasures of the Australian Museum
    • Prehistoric Playground
    • Surviving Australia
    • Pacific Spirit
    • Dinosaurs
    • Birds of Australia.

Early Birds can explore the museum after 10am, however, lighting and sound in exhibition spaces will return to previous levels along with other features.

For more on what to expect, read the diary from January’s session.

To book, visit: https://australian.museum/event/Early-Birds-Access-Mornings/

Photo credit: Anna Kucera