MELBOURNE, February 3, 2021 (AO Press Release)

The Australian Open will feature Live Electronic Line Calling voiced by community heroes, representing Australians who save and protect lives.

The pre-recorded voices will be used for the terms, ‘Out’, ‘Fault’ and ‘Foot Fault’ to acknowledge Australia’s community champions including front-line workers in the nation’s pandemic response, firefighters, surf life savers and other emergency services personnel.

Heroes have been chosen from every state and territory and reflect unique aspects of Australian life such as a wildlife rescuer from Kangaroo Island in South Australia, which suffered the devastating impact of the 2020 bushfires.

A Behind the Line tribute will introduce community heroes who will be featured as the official line calling voice in each match.

Implemented as part of the tournament’s COVIDSafe protocols, Live Electronic Line Calling has also reduced the number of people required onsite at Melbourne Park.

Live Electronic Line Calling is delivered through remote tracking cameras around the court, automatically sending the audio line calls in real time.

“The Australian Open will be the first Grand Slam tournament to introduce Live Electronic Line Calling on all courts, including the major stadiums,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.

“I’m delighted this initiative will also help to shine a light on those who work tirelessly, and so often without recognition, to keep our community safe and healthy.”

A list of community heroes to be featured in the Behind the Line initiative will be released ahead of the Australian Open, starting on February 8.