Stadiums Queensland (SQ) venues are embracing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program this Invisible Disabilities Week (19-25 October), encouraging inclusivity, acceptance and understanding for patrons, staff, and athletes.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised symbol designed to indicate an individual has a non-visible disability, condition, or chronic illness and may require additional support, assistance, or patience.
Patrons visiting The Gabba, Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Cbus Super Stadium, Sleeman Sports Complex, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Entertainment Centre and Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre may choose to wear a green sunflower lanyard, pin or wristband throughout an event to discreetly identify that they may need extra help, time or guidance.
SQ Executive General Manager, Venues Mirella Taylor said the program was a great way to encourage open discussions about disability.
“SQ is committed to delivering accessible and inclusive venues and workplaces with one in six people living with a disability, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is a great way to extend diversity and inclusion to anyone entering any of our venues,” Ms Taylor said.
“By displaying the Sunflower, wearers are prompting a simple, ‘can I help you?’ from our trained staff who can provide the support or understanding needed.”
The program not only benefits patrons and staff of SQ venues but will also provide supportive and inclusive environments for athletes training and competing at SQ venues.
The launch of the program comes after more than 300 athletes from more than 30 countries competed at the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) earlier this month.
QSAC Venue General Manager Graeme Clark said being able to host the championships for athletes with intellectual impairment showed the venues commitment to inclusivity.
“We are very proud to foster a disability inclusive culture at QSAC where all staff, visitors, and athletes feel welcome and respected,” Mr Clark said.
“We were delighted to host the Virtus Championships and showcase elite athletes with an intellectual impairment smashing world records, and we were pleased the Sunflower program was available to help them navigate the venue and competition confidently.”
To learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program visit https://hdsunflower.com/au/.
To learn more about the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships, visit https://sportinclusionaustralia.org.au/2025-virtus-world-athletics-championships/.