International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by Legends Global, has unveiled a new permanent Quiet Room that has been accredited by Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia), further strengthening the venue’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion and guest wellbeing. Designed as a calm, low stimulation environment, the Quiet Room provides visitors with a safe space to rest, regulate and reset before re‑entering the event environment
Located within the Convention Centre, the Quiet Room has been purpose‑built to support guests who may experience sensory overload, anxiety or simply need a moment away from the crowds. The space features soft lighting, comfortable furnishings, minimal stimulation and clear guidelines to ensure it remains peaceful, respectful and welcoming for visitors to the venue.
ICC Sydney, Chief Executive Officer, Adam Mather‑Brown said: “ICC Sydney welcomes millions of visitors each year, and we want every one of them to feel supported, safe and comfortable. The Quiet Room is a meaningful addition to our accessibility offering and demonstrates our commitment to providing dedicated spaces that meet the diverse needs of our community. Whether someone needs a moment to decompress, regulate or simply take a breath, this room ensures they can do so with dignity and ease.”
Meeting a key commitment of ICC Sydney’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, the Quiet Room was developed in consultation with, and accredited by Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia), a leading provider of autism specific services and expertise. Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) Head of Autism Friendly, Tom Tutton, said the initiative represents an important step forward for large scale venues
“The new Quiet Room is just one of a suite of supports developed in partnership with Aspect, including a Visual Story and Sensory Map, that support neurodivergent people to attend events, conferences and exhibitions at this amazing venue. The room is designed to best practice standards and should give people more confidence to attend and stay longer at ICC Sydney. Through Aspect’s Autism Friendly Accreditation Program, ICC Sydney’s accredited Quiet Room will undergo ongoing review and management, informed by the lived experience of Autistic people, ensuring it continues to meet best practice standards over time. Quiet Rooms are becoming an expectation across large venues, and we applaud ICC Sydney for its continuing leadership,” Tutton said.
Disability Sector Australia, Group Executive Manager, Michaela Banks who recently utilised the Quiet Room as part of the AI in the NDIS Summit held at ICC Sydney, said it made a significant difference to their delegate experience.
“ICC Sydney’s new permanent Quiet Room is an important step towards making large-scale events more accessible and welcoming for people with disability. For our Tibii Disability Support Services Forum, knowing there is a dedicated calm, sensory-friendly space available helps our delegates feel supported and able to participate more fully in the day. We value ICC Sydney’s commitment to inclusion and are proud to partner with a venue that places guest wellbeing at the centre of its design.”
The Quiet Room forms part of ICC Sydney’s broader commitment to accessibility, which includes accessible venue design, inclusive digital communications, team member training, and partnerships with leading accessibility organisations, including Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia), Get Skilled Access and The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
With the introduction of this permanent space, ICC Sydney continues to set a benchmark for inclusive event delivery. To meet Aspect’s accreditation standards, ICC Sydney’s Quiet Room includes clear usage guidelines to maintain a calm environment, includes chemical free cleaning services, soft voice expectations, short stay recommendations, a maximum capacity of four people, and restrictions on food, loud audio, meetings and social gatherings. There is detailed information for visitors outlining the Quiet Room location and amenities on ICC Sydney’s website. ICC Sydney team members are available to provide assistance if required and guests are also encouraged to provide feedback via a QR code to support ongoing improvements.
To learn more about ICC Sydney’s accessibility features, see: https://iccsydney.com.au/about/venue-information/accessibility-and-inclusion-for-visitors
