Understanding the Sunflower: Autism and Hidden Disabilities

About this episode

The episode explores the Sunflower symbol and its role in supporting Autistic individuals and others with hidden disabilities through inclusive practices.

In this episode of a different brilliant , host Madeline Jane Lobsey is joined by Sandee Facy , Hd of Business Development for Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Australia & New Zealand (via Bayley House), and Matt Oastler (he/they) , Aspect Autism Friendly Melbourne Team Leader, to explore how the Sunflower symbol and Autism Friendly practices work together to make everyday life more welcoming for Autistic people and others with hidden disabilities. Drawing on lived experience and practical examples, Sandee and Matt unpack what the Sunflower is (and isn’t), why it helps people signal a need for time, space, or support without disclosing diagnoses, and how Aspect’s Autism Friendly team partners with organisations to turn good intentions into tangible change — from quiet rooms and familiarisation sessions to visual stories, sensory maps, and inclusive workplace design. Topics include: What the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is and who it’s for How the Sunflower supports Autistic people and others with non-visible disabilities Starting supportive interactions without disclosure How Aspect’s Autism Friendly team assesses spaces and trains staff Real-world examples: airports, museums…

People in this episode

Host: Madeline Jane Lobsey

Guests: Sandee Facy, Matt Oastler

Topics covered

• Autism
• Hidden Disabilities
• Sunflower Symbol
• Inclusion
• Supportive Interactions
• Autism Friendly Practices
• Workplace Design

Keywords

• Sunflower
• Autistic people
• hidden disabilities
• inclusion
• support
• practical examples
• workplace design
• sensory maps
• quiet rooms

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Australia & New Zealand, Aspect Autism Friendly Melbourne, Bayley House

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