Mackay Airport has launched a new program aimed at better supporting customers with ‘invisible’ conditions such as autism, dementia, anxiety and more.
The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a discreet way for travellers to indicate to airport staff that they may need a little extra help or guidance.
Customers can choose to wear a sunflower lanyard or badge when they are travelling through Mackay Airport. Staff have been trained to recognise the symbol and will be prepared to provide additional support, if required. Some staff will also wear a sunflower badge or lanyard to help travellers feel more at ease.
Hidden disabilities can include autism, anxiety, dementia, mental health conditions, visual impairments, deaf or hard of hearing.
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said creating an inclusive environment for all visitors to Mackay Airport was a top priority.
“Everyone deserves to have an enjoyable airport experience regardless of their abilities or where they are travelling to,” he said.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a simple, yet highly effective way to take the stress out of travel for many in our community, by providing reassurance and a more predictable journey.”
The Hidden Disabilities Program enables customers to pre-plan their journey and make it as seamless as possible. Anyone who wishes to use a sunflower lanyard or badge simply needs to register online at the Mackay Airport website, and the items will be sent directly to them.
The lanyards can be used at airports across Australia. Other airports that support the Hidden Disabilities Program include Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The program is backed by the Australian Airports Association.
Mackay mum Corissa Ivory said navigating noisy, bright and unfamiliar airport environments could be challenging for her 12-year-old son Logan and their family.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program will be an amazing asset and credit to Mackay Airport, helping travellers and families with disabilities to feel understood and accepted, and encouraging them to have confidence in their travel journey,” she said.
“It will create a more positive experience for neurodiverse travellers by creating an enjoyable transition through the airport, while obeying all the necessary safety protocols and guidelines.”
The launch of Mackay Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Program coincides with Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week 2024.
For more information or to register for the Hidden Disabilities Program, visit Hidden Disabilities » Mackay Airport
