Request a Sunflower Lanyard Pack
Request a Sunflower Lanyard Pack to help us provide you with a more supportive airport experience.
Hidden Disabilities
Navigating an airport can be overwhelming, especially if you or someone you are travelling with has a hidden disability.
These include autism, anxiety, dementia, mental health conditions, chronic illness, visual impairments and hearing difficulties.
Our Program Overview
At Gold Coast Airport, we’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive experience for every traveller. That’s why we partner with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) to continually grow and improve our Hidden Disabilities Program.
Our program, which launched in 2019, is designed to support adults, children and their families by helping you pre-plan your journey and discreetly let our team know if you need a little extra help.
We’ve introduced a range of thoughtful initiatives to make the airport experience easier. These include the Sunflower Lanyard Program, therapy dogs, a terminal sensory map, communication boards, and written and visual social stories. Each one helps reduce stress and supports a more confident journey through our terminal.
Terminal Sensory Map
Airports can be crowded and noisy, which can be overwhelming for some travellers. To help you navigate Gold Coast Airport, we’ve created a Terminal Sensory Map.
This map highlights areas that have low, medium, and high sensory levels, so you can choose the route that best suits your needs. The terminal also includes Low Sensory Entry, Low Sensory Amenity Block, and a Sensory-Friendly Room to provide you with quiet spaces if needed.
Quiet and Multi Faith Rooms
There are three multi faith rooms in the terminal. One is in the landside concourse area directly opposite the main screening point. The second is in the international departures lounge on Level 02. Both rooms are also accessible for those with hidden disabilities requiring a quiet space. The third is located at the domestic departures, northern amenity block near Gate 05.
Communication Boards
Our Communication and Sequencing Boards are designed to assist travelers who may have difficulty communicating, including those who are non-verbal, have speech difficulties, or speak languages other than English. These boards use pictures, icons, and text to help identify key locations and information, ensuring that all passengers can easily get the help they need.
Click the links below to download Communication Cards and Sequencing Boards that guide you through different airport processes:
To help prepare for your journey, we offer Written Social Story Journeys that outline what to expect at each stage of the airport process, including domestic and international departures and arrivals. For a more visual experience, we also have Visual Social Story Videos to guide you through the terminal.
Written Social Stories
- Download our Domestic Departures Social Story
- Download our Domestic Arrivals Social Story
- Download our International Departures Social Story
International Arrivals Social Story
Visual Social Story Videos
Departing from the Domestic Terminal
Departing from the International Terminal
Arriving at the Domestic Terminal
Arriving at the International Terminal
Our AmbassaPAW Therapy Dog Program
Travel can be stressful, but our AmbassaPAW therapy dogs are here to offer some much-needed comfort. These trained therapy dogs are available throughout the week to help alleviate travel-related anxiety for all passengers, including those with hidden disabilities.
Monday: Apollo
Tuesday: Bonnie
Wednesday: Alice
Thursday: Chappie
Friday: Lucy
Sunflower Lanyard Program
If you or someone you are travelling with has a hidden disability, you can request a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard. The lanyard discreetly signals to airport staff that you may need additional support or extra time during your journey. Wearing the sunflower lanyard ensures that you’ll receive the assistance you need, whether it’s through security or while navigating the terminal.
Please note that a sunflower lanyard does not exempt you from being security screened. To remain compliant with government regulations, we screen everyone passing through our security point, whether they’re catching a flight or not.
When you request a Sunflower Lanyard Pack from Gold Coast Airport, you’ll receive:
- The Sunflower Lanyard
- An AmbassaPAWS card, so you can know all about our therapy dogs
- A Terminal Sensory Map to help you navigate quieter areas of the airport
- A Fidget Wristband to help with calming and focus during the journey
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Alternatively, you can visit the Gold Coast Airport information desk at Check-in for assistance.
Helpful Links
- Virgin Australia
- Jetstar Australia
- Qantas
- Cairns Airport
- Melbourne Airport
- Perth Airport
- Sydney Airport
- Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT)
For any questions or assistance regarding our Hidden Disabilities Program, please reach out to us at hiddendisabilities@gcal.com.au.
Feedback
We’re always looking for ways to improve our services and make your experience better. If you have any feedback about our Hidden Disabilities Program or any other services, please feel free to share it with us. Give your feedback here.
Need Help?
Got questions about your journey through Gold Coast Airport? We've gathered the top FAQs to help you cruise through the terminal with ease.
Where can I find information for passengers requiring assistance?
Gold Coast Airport is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible experience. Please advise your airline when booking or before travel if you need assistance.
Visit our Accessibility page for details.
What support is available for passengers with hidden disabilities?
Gold Coast Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Program includes the sunflower lanyard, sensory maps, communication boards, quiet rooms inside the airport, and more. Visit our Hidden Disabilities page to learn more.
Does Gold Coast Airport have a Changing Places facility?
Yes. An Adult Accessible Change Facility (AACF) is available after security screening in the Domestic Departures Lounge, opposite Boarding Gate 12.
The facility includes:
- A height-adjustable adult-sized change table
- Ceiling track hoist for easy transfers
- Centrally located peninsular toilet
- Privacy screen, grab rails, sensor lighting, and an accessible shower
- Ample space for a traveller with a disability and up to two carers
This facility is designed to support travellers with high physical support needs and their carers.
Which airline lounges are available?
Gold Coast Airport offers Virgin Australia Lounge and Qantas Club for eligible passengers.
How do I find out if my flight is delayed?
Check the Flight Information Display Screens on our website or throughout the terminal. You can also contact your airline directly.
Do I have enough time to transit between international and domestic terminals?
The International and Domestic Arrivals and Departures are located within the same terminal building. If arriving from an International flight, proceed to the right as you exit the International Arrivals area to check in. If you are arriving on a Domestic flight, proceed through the Domestic Arrivals corridor and, upon exiting, turn left — the Check-In area is located within a short walking distance. Refer to the Checking-In page for more information.
What’s the carry-on luggage weight limit?
Carry-on luggage weight limits vary depending on your airline. This is often included in your flight itinerary or booking details. For further clarification, contact your airline directly.
How early do I need to be at the airport for my flight?
Most domestic airlines require you to be at the check-in counter at least 60 minutes before departure. International airlines recommend arriving at least two hours before your flight. Be sure to check the guidelines provided by your airline.
Does Gold Coast Airport have more than one terminal?
Gold Coast Airport has one main terminal. Both domestic and international flights operate from this terminal.
Does Gold Coast Airport operate on Queensland or NSW time?
Gold Coast Airport operates on Queensland time (AEST) all year round.
Is Gold Coast Airport open 24 hours?
The terminal is open from 4:00am to 11:00pm daily. Entry is restricted outside these hours, and overnight stays inside the terminal are not permitted.
Does Gold Coast Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Are there smoking areas at the airport?
Yes. Designated smoking areas are located at the northern end of the terminal, along the northern car park walkway, and in the southern forecourt. Smoking, vaping, or using e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited inside the terminal and airside areas.
Are there lockers available at the airport?
Yes. Lockers are located at the front of the terminal in the short-term car park. Pricing varies depending on duration.
What food and drink options are available at Gold Coast Airport?
There’s no need to travel hungry. In the Domestic terminal, you’ll find a range of options including Social Espresso, Hungry Jack’s, Artisan Kitchen & Bakery, Asia Street Cooking, and more. For international travellers, Wollumbin Café & Bar is available in the International Departures Lounge.
Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?
Yes. Many of our food outlets cater to dietary requirements. Check in-store menus or speak to staff for options that suit your needs. To plan ahead, visit our individual store listings.
Is there somewhere to grab coffee at the airport?
Yes – you’ll find several café outlets across key areas including Check-In, Departure Lounges, and Arrivals, all serving barista-made coffee to keep you fuelled for your journey.
Can I bring my own food to the airport?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or meals. If you’re travelling internationally, be sure to check restrictions on liquids and food items. You can find more information on taking food overseas here.
