The Sunflower program gives students and other passengers with a non-visible disability like autism, chronic pain, anxiety or hearing impairments a distinctive green and yellow sunflower-themed lanyard or wristband. By wearing it, students can discreetly signal that they may need additional support on buses from Busways staff, without disclosing their conditions.

Over 85 percent of Busways drivers are now trained to recognise the Sunflower lanyard and provide appropriate support, such as help boarding and disembarking or navigating stressful situations. More drivers will complete the training over the coming months.

By joining the Sunflower program and training our drivers, we are making our buses more accessible and inclusive for all, so everyone can feel respected and understood, allowing those with hidden challenges to travel with ease and dignity.

Families of students identifying as having a hidden disability can buy a Sunflower lanyard from the Hidden Disabilities website. The Sunflower is solely distributed in Australia by Bayley House, a not-for-profit organisation.

Free Sunflower lanyards can be also obtained from Transport for NSW by emailing sunflower@transport.nsw.gov.au or by picking one up at any of 35 selected train stations. Visit their website for more information.