Sunfower Program Driving Inclusion on Buses in Lismore

The Minns Labor Government is backing the expansion of the internationally recognized Hidden Disabilities Sunfower program to buses in the Lismore area, further enhancing public transport access for people with non-visible disabilities.

The program provides individuals with disabilities such as autism, dementia, chronic pain, and anxiety with a distinctive green and yellow sunfowerthemed lanyard. This lanyard signals their need for assistance while using public transport.

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, confrmed that CDC NSW, operating in the Far North Coast region (formerly Blanch’s Bus Company and Brunswick

Nsw

Valley Coaches), is among the frst regional and outer metropolitan bus operators to become Sunfower-friendly.

“Drivers on school and regular route services have been trained to recognize the Sunfower lanyard and provide appropriate support,” Ms. Saffn said. “This includes helping passengers with boarding, disembarking, or navigating stressful situations.”

The NSW Government’s support for the program is part of broader efforts to improve public transport access in regional areas, including:

• The $800-million Safe Accessible Transport Program,

• The Country