International Day of People with Disability is a United Nations observed day held annually on 3 December, aimed at raising understanding and acceptance of people with a disability.

More than 1-5 Australians or 5.5 million people, identify as having a disability. 

Today, we celebrate International Day of People with Disability by partnering with the globally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This initiative provides a discreet way for people with hidden disabilities to indicate they may need extra assistance, understanding or patience in public spaces.

Our staff in Council customer service centres, library branches and the Central Coast Visitor Centre at The Entrance are trained to recognise the Sunflower symbol and provide appropriate support. Free Sunflower merchandise is available at these locations – drop in and chat with our friendly team to pick yours up!

Becoming a corporate partner of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program aligns with two of Council's strategic plans:

• Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2021-2025,
• Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2022-2025.

This International Day of People with Disability, we invite everyone in our community to embrace inclusion, support people with disabilities in all areas of life and rethink what's possible when barriers are removed.

To learn more about the Sunflower symbol and the different kinds of non-visible disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses that Sunflower wearers have, go to https://hdsunflower.com/au/insights/category/invisible-disabilities

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To learn more about the Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2021-2025, go to https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/residents/support-programs/accessibility-and-inclusion

To learn more about Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2022-2025, go to https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/council/forms-and-puthe blications/strategy/destination-management-plan-central-coast-region