RMIT neurodiversity room temporarily closes due to misuse

The neurodiverse space in RMIT’s Swanston Library was closed earlier this semester due to misuse.

“There were students going in as groups and it was causing a lot of distress to people that were using the room for its intended purpose,” said a Swanston Library staff member who asked not to be named.

Room 104 in the Swanston Library. (Credit: Patrick Lyne.)

The space contains couches and other comfortable furnishings, with a sliding door leading to a veranda.

The room was initially designed to feel different from a study place, providing a place for students to relax and unwind.

Another library staff member said one group of students were using the room to vape and be loud, and that other groups may have misused the room in the same way despite signage on the door stating the room’s purpose.

The staff member said they had been repeatedly told to stop the behaviour. 

The room’s closure notice. (Credit: Patrick Lyne.)

“One of the suggestions was to close it off temporarily and implement swipe card access.”

The staff member said it was important for RMIT to have neurodiverse spaces, and is unsure when the room will reopen.

“We have a lot of feedback and there’s been research over the years that says spaces like this are popular and are regularly used by students.”

There are two other sensory-friendly rooms, one located in Building 56 and another in Building 80.