NSW Parliament is the first parliament in Australia to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative
Since August 2024, select members of NSW Parliament staff have been in training to welcome visitors wearing the internationally recognised sunflower. Visitors looking for discreet support and assistance can now call upon any staff member wearing ‘supporter’ Sunflower badges. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program supports people with a hidden disability by 'making the invisible, visible'. Participants opt into the program to help them attain the understanding, patience, and assistance they may need in everyday situations.
The Hon. Ben Franklin, President of NSW Parliament’s Legislative Council, says:
We want all who visit Parliament House to experience inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding. By adopting the sunflower, the barriers we cannot see in achieving this inclusivity for all can be addressed. The sunflower is a small gesture with huge potential for initiating this change.
The Hon. Greg Piper, Speaker of NSW Parliament’s Legislative Assembly, says:
If you need assistance, look out for our staff wearing a sunflower supporter badge or lanyard. NSW Parliament is ready to ensure our sunflower-wearing guests are welcomed and their needs addressed.
Click here to find out more about the Hidden Disabilities Program at NSW Parliament.
Many thanks to Parliament of NSW for their ongoing dedication to fostering inclusion.