The Australian Open is one of the four prestigious Grand Slam tennis tournaments, held annually in Melbourne, Victoria. Since its inception in 1905, the Australian Open has become a global sporting highlight, drawing tennis fans from around the world to witness top-tier competition. Played in January at Melbourne Park, the tournament features the world's best players battling it out on the iconic hard courts.
With a strong reputation for innovation and fan engagement, the Australian Open combines world-class tennis with a lively festival atmosphere. The event is known for its exciting night sessions, cutting-edge technology, and fan-friendly experiences, such as live music, food trucks, and interactive activities.
In addition to the high-performance tennis, the Australian Open is deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sport. The tournament has partnered with various initiatives, including The Inclusion Project, to ensure that the event is welcoming and accessible to all, regardless of ability. Through these efforts, the Australian Open continues to be a leader in making tennis a sport for everyone.
Participants Receive
A Sensory Map to identify high sensory and low sensory areas to help you navigate through the stadium and prepare for additional noise, crowded areas.
Social Stories that illustrate how to navigate the venue or event, displayed through pictures in an easy to understand structure.
A lanyard to wear from arrival at the stadium to allow staff to recognise that you may require additional assistance throughout the event or matchday
Access to Sensory Friendly Space which is designed to provide sensory relief and stimulation for people living with sensory needs. Operated by Occupational Therapists to provide individualised support for participants.
Stay tuned!
Details on the Australian Open 2026 will be released around September 2025. Stay tuned to this page for more information closer to this time.
SIGN UP
Useful Links
SOCIAL STORY
SENSORY MAP
Common Questions
What loud noises can happen at the Open?
You can expect loud cheers, music, and the sound of tennis balls smashing at the Australian Open Tennis tournament.
These will accompany key moments in the match, such as a game-winning serve, a powerful forehand, or a thrilling rally. Expect to hear the roar of the crowd, the sharp thwack of the ball, and energizing music between sets, all adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Stadium announcements, crowd chants, and the occasional air horn will enhance the excitement, making every intense moment resonate throughout the venue.
Another large part of the event is live music , which can be heard throughout the precinct.
Different areas bring different noises, whether it is stage performance in the Ball Park, the large crowd gathering for food in the Garden Square or people catching the live action near Rod Laver Arena.
What are average crowd sizes
The Australian Open attracts on average 89,000 fans per day. With a total of 1.2 million fans attending across the 2 weeks.
Where are the Sensory Rooms at the AO?
There are also Sensory Rooms at Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena who are managed externally to The Inclusion Project.
Find out more
Trains, trams and buses operate frequently, dropping you right at the door of the precinct.
Train
Richmond Station Jolimont Station Flinders Street Station
Tram
Tram 70 (Wattle Park) from Flinders Street and Richmond Stations. These stop at Rod Laver Arena (Stop 7B), John Cain Arena (Stop 7C) and AAMI Park (Stop 7D).
Tram 48 (North Balwyn) and Tram 75 (Vermont South). These stop adjacent to the MCG on Wellington Parade.
Bus
Bus 246 (Latrobe Uni – Elsternwick Station) stops at the corner of Olympic Boulevard and Punt Road.
