Communication with job seekers before they start a new job, or once they are in work, allows open discussion about any parts of the job or workplace that may need adjustment. If modifications or adjustments are required to the workplace, including essential tools, you can actively support the job seeker and employer in implementing those modifications or adjustments.
Examples of modifications and adjustments include:
In many cases, the job seeker will be the expert regarding any equipment or adjustments that they require, so asking them about their requirements and preferences for equipment or adjustments is the best approach.
Employment Assistance Fund
There is help available to pay for the cost of workplace adjustments or solutions if they are needed to accommodate a job seeker with disability in a job. For information on the Employment Assistance Fund, including the eligibility criteria and guidelines, visit:
It is useful to talk to job seekers about the incentives available to their employer when implementing workplace modifications and adjustments. If the job seeker knows about the Employment Assistance Fund they can discuss this with the employer during the interview or induction period. The following page links you to fact sheets for employers about the help and financial incentives that may be available to them:
Workplace assessments
Workplace assessments can help identify and remove barriers in the workplace for job seekers with disability. Professional workplace assessors can provide you, the job seeker and employer with expert advice on any workplace adjustments, equipment and modifications that may be needed to allow a job seeker to do their job.
As part of the Employment Assistance Fund, the JobAccess Advisers can assess the need for a workplace assessment for eligible employees with disability and can arrange a free assessment.
Workplace Adjustment Tool
If you would like advice or ideas on how to make appropriate modifications and adjustments for a job seeker with disability, you can search our Workplace Adjustment Tool. The Workplace Adjustment Tool contains practical ideas and solutions for supporting people with disability as they complete a vast array of activities and tasks in the workplace. The tool links you to suppliers of products and solutions in your state or territory:
More information
If you would like more information on the Employment Assistance Fund, please contact the JobAccess Advisers on 1800 464 800 or by using the Online Enquiry Form:
The following fact sheets for employers also provide more information, tips and strategies on workplace modifications and adjustment to assist and support job seekers at work: