Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme in full bloom at Territory major events

Event goers with a hidden disability will be offered a helping hand to navigate Northern Territory major events by wearing a discreet lanyard decorated with tiny sunflowers.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, set to be implemented across all events delivered by NT Major Events Company (NTMEC), will enable people with hidden disabilities to wear the internationally recognisable sunflower symbol.

This symbol signals to company staff, who are trained in the program, that support may be needed. Support can be anything from helping people with wayfinding, providing a safe resting area, or directing individuals to essential facilities such as restrooms or medical tents.

NTMEC CEO Suzana Bishop said introducing the Hidden Disability Sunflower program is an important initiative that will benefit locals and those that visit the Northern Territory to experience one of our amazing events.

“We strive to create events that are as inclusive as possible and in previous years we have provided support for people with a disability through various programs,” she said. “Partnering with a globally recognised scheme allows us to expand and improve in this space.”

In Australia, there are 4.4 million people living with one or more disabilities. Of these, at least 80-85% have one or more invisible disabilities.

Invisible disabilities, medical conditions and disorders can affect people in ways that may not be immediately apparent to others.  Non-visible disabilities range from chronic pain and autoimmune diseases to developmental disorders, mental health conditions, and hearing and vision impairments.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Aus/NZ Director Justin Bruce said the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is thrilled to support NTMEC and the NT Government in their “quest to make events more accessible and inclusive for all attendees including people with non-visible disabilities”.

“We would like to thank NTMEC for pioneering the way across the region and all the staff and volunteers who champion the Sunflower initiative, offer their support to Sunflower wearers, and ultimately build a better society that all Australians can be proud of.”

People with a hidden disability can access the program by choosing to wear a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or wristband when attending events. If someone would like to join the program they can collect a lanyard or wristband free of charge at NTMEC delivered events. The events include NRL, BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival, betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars Indigenous Round, Red CentreNATS and Alice Springs Masters Games.

Almost 17% of Territorians live with a non-obvious disability, and Ms Bishop said it’s important to create inclusive events.

“Partnering with a globally recognised scheme allows an event deliverer like Northern Territory Major Events to expand and improve in this space.

“Initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program are a great way to help people feel included and safe to attend some of the Territory’s largest events.”

“I hope more businesses embrace this internationally recognised scheme which will make living in the Territory a more liveable place for all.”

To find out more about the Hidden Sunflower Initiative and how to access this scheme, visit each event’s website for information.