Daniel returns to work following a spinal injury, with the support of JobAccess
Daniel Anderson is a former National Rugby League (NRL) coach. Due to a body surfing accident in 2022, he injured his spine and acquired quadriplegia. Daniel has now returned to his role as Head of Recruitment at the Sydney Roosters, working from his new and accessible workspace.
Daniel’s contribution to the rugby league world
Daniel has been involved in the NRL since his early days. He began his coaching career in 1999. Daniel previously coached the New Zealand Warriors and the Parramatta Eels in the NRL. He was also the coach of St. Helens in the Super League.
In 2006, he was named BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year. Currently, he works as the Head of Recruitment at Sydney Roosters.
Adjusting to a new way of life
In December 2022, Daniel had an accident whilst bodysurfing. The incident damaged his spinal cord, and he acquired quadriplegia. It affected his mobility. After an intense recovery process in rehab, he is now back to his work.
In his new role, Daniel works with various employees and professional rugby league players. These people are aged between 15 – 80 years. He enjoys his work and follows every NRL game.
Environmental barriers at work
As a wheelchair user, Daniel faced environmental barriers at work, and at his home office. His workstations had little space to navigate the wheelchair. It limited his movement from one place to another in the office.
Daniel's workspaces required modifications to boost his productivity and efficiency. Rachel from Royal Ryde Rehab, who supported Daniel in his recovery, recommended that he contact JobAccess for assistance with his workplace modifications needs.
Daniel returns to work where he gets to contribute and add value
Upon receiving Daniel’s application for the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF), a JobAccess Professional Adviser organised a free assessment of Daniel’s home and office workspaces.
An independent assessor with specialised knowledge of the disability conducted the assessment. Based on the assessment, changes to Daniel’s workspaces were recommended. The assessor also suggested tailored equipment and assistive technology to support Daniel at work.
The EAF gives financial help to eligible people living with disability and mental health conditions, as well as employers. It helps them buy work-related modifications and equipment. It also covers Auslan services, workplace assistance and support services.
Through the EAF, JobAccess funded an adjustable desk and Dragon speech-to-text software for Daniel. They also funded building modifications. These include door widening adjustments, automated blinds, and more. These modifications and equipment have made Daniel’s workspace accessible for him.
“The supports provided through JobAccess have enabled me to confidently work in a team environment.“
– Daniel Anderson – Head of Recruitment, Sydney Roosters
With tailored support and funding assistance from JobAccess, Daniel now feels happy to work with his team and for his department. He is also able to work effectively and contribute to the business from his home.
“The supports have enabled me to confidently work in a team environment. Home is also an awesome workspace where I can focus. I can now contribute equally to my department and the business,” shared Daniel.
Daniel is appreciative of his experience working with JobAccess. He found the turnaround time very quick and the overall process simple. He also describes JobAccess Advisers as supportive and resourceful.
“They were friendly and informative. They provided expert assistance to enhance my work experience,” concluded Daniel.
Are you looking for advice and support with workplace adjustments? Get in touch with JobAccess
JobAccess is the go-to expert for disability employment matters. It helps removes barriers to sustainable employment for people with disability.
JobAccess has a team of allied health professionals who provide expert, confidential and tailored advice on workplace adjustments from the first point of contact.
For expert advice and tailored support, reach out to JobAccess on 1800 464 800 or submit an online enquiry. You can also visit our website for more information.
Related pages
Available support for people with disability
Last updated: