September 8, 2026
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is a simple, recognisable symbol that helps people with invisible disabilities communicate that they may need...
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is a simple, recognisable symbol that helps people with invisible disabilities communicate that they may need extra time, patience, or support. Many people live with disabilities or health conditions that aren’t immediately obvious such as chronic pain, sensory processing differences, neurological conditions, mental health challenges, or fatigue‑related disabilities. The Sunflower lanyard allows them to signal their needs without having to explain their story over and over again.
The Sunflower program began in the UK and it has grown into a global accessibility movement – and South Australia is increasingly embracing it! Adelaide Airport is one of the key SA locations that formally recognises the Sunflower lanyard, offering staff awareness and additional support for travellers who may need clearer communication, extra time, or assistance navigating busy environments. There are many airports around the world that recognise the Sunflower.
Beyond the airport, many South Australian organisations are becoming familiar with the Sunflower symbol, including shopping centres, medical clinics, libraries and event venues. Venues include the Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide Entertainment Centre and the Fringe Festival. While not every organisation is formally registered, awareness is growing rapidly and more staff and community members across South Australia understand what the lanyard means and how to respond with kindness and respect.
Local councils of Barunga West, Copper Coast and Yorke Peninsula are also exploring ways to support the community. In their 2026-2030 Disability Access and Inclusion Plan, they’ve shared a promising goal to explore “partnering with the Sunflower Project to acknowledge and support people with hidden or invisible disabilities”. We’re eager to see how this unfolds and are hopeful that local initiatives will soon help make the region more welcoming and accessible.
While joining the official Sunflower network takes dedication and resources, businesses don’t need to formally register to start making a difference. Simply learning about the program and training staff can have a huge impact. Currently, Clare’s “Beyond Bank” in the Yorke and Mid North region is leading the way as the only official partner in the region and we hope to see more local businesses join them over time.
Importantly, wearing the Sunflower isn’t about asking for special treatment. It’s about creating environments where people feel safe, understood and supported in situations that can be overwhelming, rushed, or unpredictable. At Contemporary Therapy Solutions, we support the Sunflower program and see the Sunflower lanyard as a practical example of the Social Model of Disability in action. It shifts the focus from the individual to the environment, encouraging communities to reduce barriers and increase understanding.
While these lanyards are available for purchase online, they are frequently provided at no cost at locations like Adelaide Airport, larger retail hubs and some public libraries. Should the local Yorke Peninsula councils formally proceed with this program, we anticipate that residents will be able to collect free lanyards directly from all local council offices.
The Yorke Peninsula regional strategy for fostering a more accessible community is available for your review via the Yorke Peninsula Council website, where you can explore the full details of the current Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.
To discover more about how this simple symbol is making an impact, you can explore the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is a simple, recognisable symbol that helps people with invisible disabilities communicate that they may need...
The Social Model of Disability is a way of understanding disability that shifts the focus from what’s “wrong” with a person...
Contemporary therapy is about focusing on what’s happening right now - the experiences, challenges, and goals that matter most in a...
At Contemporary Therapy Solutions, we believe that where a person lives should never determine the quality of support they receive.
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