Why it matters
Not all disabilities are visible. For many people (autistic folks, people with anxiety, chronic pain, cognitive or sensory needs) the Sunflower offers a low‑pressure way to ask for understanding.
The Sunflower symbol helps people with invisible disabilities quietly signal they may need patience, time, or assistance. It’s recognised across schools and services in SEQ ~ but not on Translink.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is an easy-to-understand symbol ((often presented in a lanyard)) that lets a person discreetly indicate they may need extra time, clearer information, a seat, or other assistance. It protects privacy while improving access and kindness in everyday interactions. The South-East Queensland Transit Association firmly believes its adoption would do significant good for understanding across the network.
Not all disabilities are visible. For many people (autistic folks, people with anxiety, chronic pain, cognitive or sensory needs) the Sunflower offers a low‑pressure way to ask for understanding.
Many schools and facilities across SEQ recognise the Sunflower.. Translink does not. That means drivers and the public aren’t prompted to look for it, and significant amounts of people people miss out on support.
Many disabled people often stay quiet about their needs or simply avoid using transport altogether. When a large amount of disabled people are unable to drive, you can see the issue this causes for them.
Translink can announce and incorporate the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower as part of their "Move Together" campaign (Reference).
Furthermore, by adding sunflower icons to priority seat stickers and introducing posters to explain what the sunflower means to passengers, this can be implemented at a low cost.
The South-East Queensland Transit Association is willing to design Translink the materials needed, free of charge as part of our commitment to supporting Queensland.
Wear a Sunflower if it helps you, and tell a friend what it means. Small actions make the network kinder.
No. The sunflower symbol is a signal, not a pass. It simply helps staff and other passengers recognise someone may need a little extra support or time.
Many people use lanyards, but badges, stickers, or cards work too. The key is the sunflower symbol.
We have a few options! Either join our Discord server, or send us an email to [email protected] ❤️
We are the South-East Queensland Transit Association. A passionate community of transport enthusiasts with a goal of better-connecting South-East Queensland. We're relatively new on the block.
Go check out https://hdsunflower.com/au/