ASAPD and Otium unveil new guidelines for inclusive outdoor sporting facilities
The Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability (ASAPD) and Otium Planning have released new guidelines for inclusive outdoor sporting facilities, showcased at the National Sport and Physical Activity Convention. The new Disability Sports Community Facility Guidelines – Volume 2: Outdoor were presented by Jason Leslie, Director, Otium Planning Group and provide practical direction for more accessible and inclusive community sport infrastructure across Australia.
The guidelines provide practical direction for the planning, design, upgrade and operation of outdoor sport and recreation facilities to better support participation by all Australians, including people living with disability. They are intended to help planners, designers, asset owners, managers, sporting organisations and community stakeholders create environments that are accessible, welcoming and fit for purpose.
The resource addresses locational accessibility, management and access arrangements and facility design, responding to ongoing barriers across community sporting infrastructure. Key guidance covers arrival and navigation, surfaces, acoustics, lighting, audio-visual and tactile supports, changerooms and amenities, spectator access, storage, environmental comfort and venue management. The guidelines also emphasise peak-time access, integrated programming, performance measures and engagement with people with lived experience of disability.
As Australia moves toward the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, ASAPD says the document supports a lasting legacy of greater participation, inclusion and accessibility in community sport for all Australians.
Access the new guidelines HERE.
