Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative in Canberra | Invisible Disability Support

Not all impairments are visible. In Canberra, as in communities around the world, many people live with physical, neurological and intellectual impairments that are not immediately visible. These invisible disabilities—which may be neurological, cognitive, sensory, and chronic health conditions—often go unrecognised, leading to misunderstanding, exclusion, or lack of support. So how do we as a community overcome this challenge without causing undue embarrassment, conflict or challenge?

Understanding Invisible Disability

Invisible disabilities can affect how a person moves, communicates, processes information, or interacts with their environment. Conditions such as autism, ADHD, chronic pain, mental health disorders, and sensory sensitivities are just a few examples. Because these conditions are not outwardly apparent, individuals often face unique challenges in public spaces, workplaces, and social settings.

Statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

According to the ABS 2022 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers:

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**5.5 million Australians (21.4%) had disability**, up from 17.7% in 2018.

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**15.0% of people aged 0-64 years had disability**, compared with 52.3% of people aged 65 years and over.

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**7.9% of all Australians had a profound or severe disability**.

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**It is estimated that 80% of individuals with disability have an invisible disability**.

Canberra Leading the Way in Inclusion

Canberra is home to a growing number of initiatives that are helping to make our city more inclusive and supportive for people with invisible disabilities:

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**Access Canberra** has joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, training all service center staff to recognise and support individuals wearing the sunflower lanyard.

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**The ACT Inclusion Council** promotes inclusive employment practices and universal design, and hosts the annual Chief Minister's Inclusion Awards.

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**The Involved CBR platform** connects Canberrans with events, training, and resources that promote accessibility and inclusion.

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**Advocacy for Inclusion and the ACT Office for Disability** continue to champion systemic change and inclusive policy design.

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**Introduction in many retail and other settings of a "Quiet Hour"** where background noise is reduced, lights are dimmed to enable those with sensory challenges to participate in a quieter environment.

How You Can Help

Recognise the Sunflower

If you see someone wearing a sunflower lanyard or pin, it's a sign they may need a little more time, patience, or support.

Champion Inclusion in Your Workplace

Encourage your organisation to undertake Sunflower training, review accessibility policies, and create sensory-friendly environments.

Celebrate Local Champions

Nominate individuals or businesses for the ACT Chief Minister's Inclusion Awards and share stories of inclusion in your networks.

Together, We Can Make Canberra More Inclusive

Invisible disabilities may be hidden, but their impact is real. By fostering awareness, empathy, and action, we can ensure that everyone in our community feels seen, supported, and valued.

Learn more about the initiative and how to get involved at the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website, and at Invisible Disabilities Australia.

For statistics on Australians with a Disability, see the ABS Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Summary of Findings.