In the lead-up to the International Day of People with Disability (3 December), Tweed Shire Council has officially launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative, a global movement that helps individuals with non-visible disabilities discreetly indicate their need for support, while shining a light on the everyday challenges they face.
The launch was held at Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, with Councillors Meredith Dennis OAM and Kimberly Hone, alongside members of Council's Equal Access Advisory Committee, a group of community members with lived, caring and working experience of disability, who provide valuable guidance to Council on access and inclusion matters.
The initiative is part of Council's broader efforts to ensure that people with non-visible disabilities feel supported and understood when accessing public spaces and services.
Through the program, Council staff and volunteers are trained to recognise the sunflower symbol, a discreet yet powerful way for individuals with conditions such as anxiety, chronic illness, autism, or neurological disorders to indicate they may need extra support, understanding or patience.
Council's Manager People & Culture, Aimee Austin, said the initiative was about building awareness across the organisation, and leading the way in shaping positive community attitudes
"It's a simple symbol, but it opens the door to greater awareness and understanding, which can only be a positive thing," Ms Austin said.
As part of the rollout, all Council staff and volunteers are being offered 2 key online training opportunities: the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Training and the Introduction to Disability Awareness Training. The training aims to help staff and volunteers recognise and support people with hidden disabilities, understand inclusive language and legal protections, and apply practical strategies to remove barriers in the workplace.
Council's Community Development Officer Inclusion, Giselle Benitez Hetherington, said the training is an important part of Council's broader commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
"By offering these training opportunities, we aim to ensure everyone in the community, regardless of ability, feels supported and valued.
"It gives staff and volunteers the knowledge and confidence to identify barriers, use inclusive language, and take practical action that make a real difference. These skills are essential for creating workplaces and community spaces where everyone feels welcome," Ms Benitez Hetherington said.
"This initiative is one of several actions Council is taking to embed inclusion into everyday practice. By raising awareness of non-visible disabilities and equipping staff and volunteers with the skills to support all community members, we're taking meaningful steps toward a more accessible, respectful and inclusive Tweed."
