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Kmart introduces 'Quiet Space' for customers with autism

Kmart has announced they are introducing a 'Quiet Space' shopping experience in selected stores, which will make entering the busy shop more accessible for everyone.

The new initiative helps those who are on the autism spectrum or find it challenging to shop in such a high-sensory environment.

Kmart has announced their new initiative 'Quiet Space' for those who are on the autism spectrum or find it challenging to shop in such a high-sensory environment. Photo: Supplied
Kmart has announced their new initiative 'Quiet Space' for those who are on the autism spectrum or find it challenging to shop in such a high-sensory environment. Photo: Supplied

From this week, every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, select Kmart stores will provide a low-sensory shopping experience for customers with reduced noise, lighting and distractions.

Some of the changes include:

  • Store lighting will be dimmed

  • Kmart radio will be turned down

  • Register and scanner volumes will be reduced to the lowest level

  • Trolley collections will be limited

  • There will be minimal cages on the shop floor

  • No PA announcements will be made, unless it's an emergency

  • More team members will be available to support customers

From this week, every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, select Kmart stores will provide a low-sensory shopping experience for customers with reduced noise, lighting and distractions. Photo: Supplied
From this week, every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, select Kmart stores will provide a low-sensory shopping experience for customers with reduced noise, lighting and distractions. Photo: Supplied

The retailer shared that they engaged communities and advocacy organisations around Australia such as Ability Options, Aspect Australia and Autism New Zealand to bring this new initiative to life.

They also revealed they will have sensory maps available online to help customers plan their Kmart trips and create awareness around certain areas of the store that may have increased sensory stimuli.

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Quiet Space will be offered at these locations:

  • South Australia – Churchill, Mt Barker

  • Western Australia – Bunbury, Midland, Innaloo, Rockingham

  • New South Wales / ACT – Gungahlin, North Rocks, Pagewood, Minto

  • Victoria – Templestowe, Wangaratta, Sanctuary Lakes, Leopold

  • Queensland – Toowong, Victoria Point, Stafford, Oxenford, Morayfield, Arana Hills

  • Northern Territory – Coolalinga

  • Tasmania - Launceston, Newtown

  • New Zealand – Queenstown, Porirua, Hamilton Central, Botany

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