City of Darwin is taking another step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible community by becoming a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower accredited organisation and introducing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program across customer-facing services.
The program supports City of Darwin's Access Strategy 2025-2030 and provides nationally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Awareness Training to staff working in libraries, customer contact, family services, community facilities and community and cultural services.
A hidden disability is a condition or chronic illness that is not immediately obvious to others. Examples include autism, ADHD, chronic pain, low vision and mental health conditions.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is a globally recognised symbol that people can choose to wear if they have a non-visible disability and would like others to know they may need extra time, patience or assistance. The symbol does not identify a person's disability.
Lord Mayor Peter Styles said becoming a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower accredited organisation demonstrated City of Darwin's commitment to ensuring everyone feels welcome when accessing City of Darwin services.
"City of Darwin is committed to making our city inclusive and accessible for everyone who lives, works, studies and visits Darwin," Mr Styles said.
"People with hidden disabilities can collect a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, badge or wristband from the Customer Service, located at the Civic Centre, or any of City of Darwin's four libraries.
"This training has given our staff the knowledge and confidence to better support community members with hidden disabilities through simple actions such as allowing extra time, communicating clearly, slowing the pace where needed and responding with patience, empathy and understanding," he said.
The initiative also supports City of Darwin's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is understood, valued and celebrated.
