Not all disabilities are visible.
1 in 7 of us live with a disability across the world. Not all disabilities can be seen.
Some individuals experience a disability that is visible, whilst others may experience a disability that is invisible or experience a combination of both visible and invisible conditions. An individual may experience a disability that is temporary, fluctuating or permanent.
There are a wide range of disabilities where an individual may require additional support such as neurological, neurodevelopmental, physical, cognitive, auditory, visual, auditory or sensory processing difficulties.
Individuals with a disability may require additional support if needed and an individual with a hidden disability may require additional support that cannot be seen by others.
What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
‘The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have an invisible disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent.’ – Hidden Disabilities Australia
The sunflower symbolizes a hidden disability and is a way to communicate to others the need for additional support, even when just by looking at you this is not visible.
By wearing a sunflower lanyard or badge you are able to make the invisible visible and gain support if required.
Hidden disabilities Australia
Hidden disabilities Australia have a free search engine which individuals with disabilities can use to search for accessible access and community participation.
It is a great resource to utilize when accessing the community and requiring additional supports such as; seating, a safe/quiet space, sign language, physical guided tour, level access, large print, free step access, assisted listening, braille, changing places toilet, accessible toilets and more.
Workplaces have begun to offer staff training to recognise the sunflower logo and to be able to offer individuals with invisible disabilities appropriate support if required. Airports in particular are now offering those with invisible disabilities additional supports. For example, some airports offer sensory maps to identify particularly high and low sensory stimulating areas of the terminals in order to help an individual prepare for noisy and busy areas or book assistance from a member of staff to help an individual navigate to quieter areas as needed.
How can you support someone wearing the sunflower or hidden disability Australia?
If you see someone seeking support you can offer your assistance, however remember to not presume support is required unless they accept this support.
You can also get your workplace involved in supporting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, to participate please visit
