28/03/2026
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1546940314102573&id=100063598572750
WE'RE JOINING THE HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER NETWORK
Globally, around 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability. in Australia, (as of 2022) * 5.5 million or 21.4% of the population live with a disability. And up to 80% have a non-visible disability.
In Hornsby Shire, 29% of our local population declare they live with a long term health condition - that's 44,909 people. (Source: ABS)
No Council can or should ignore that statistic.
The Sunflower Program is here to support each and every one of them. Making the invisible, visible.
I'm delighted that on Thursday 2 April, Hornsby Shire Council is becoming part of the Hidden Disabilities Program, starting with our Library team. I've lobbied hard for Council to join this program and I am glad that our team have embraced this - our libraries are a haven of welcome and support on so many levels.
If you're free, come along and join me ( and others! ) on Thursday, 2 April for morning tea - or join in some of the drop-in craft, games and puzzles that will be available throughout the day.
Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support. Some people question whether you have a disability because you "don’t look like you have a disability".
That is why we need to support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Network - to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. It is a simple tool for you to share that you have a hidden disability voluntarily. Simply by wearing the Sunflower, you’re just letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.
If you're a business owner or sole trader you can join the program, enabling you to access training for your team and the ability to promote your business as 'sunflower-friendly.' By joining the Sunflower program, businesses are addressing the real needs of their customers and staff - improving their daily experience and building loyalty. Interested? You can get more info here: https://hdsunflower.com/au/
As one user of the sunflower has said: "I have my lanyard, it has been the best thing. It has allowed me the dignity of getting help when needed without having to tell strangers what is going on. It is no one's business, and helps to stop the humiliation and embarrassment of ignorance by others."
📌 Event Details:
When: Thursday 2 April
Where: Hornsby Central Library
Morning Tea: 10:30am
All day: Drop in craft, puzzles, games
More info: https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/Community/Events/Library-events-folder/Sunflower-Celebration
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Australia & New Zealand Hornsby Shire Council Hornsby Shire Libraries