Finding and keeping a job can be life changing. Work can provide financial independence, confidence, social connections, and a sense of purpose.
But for many people with disability, environmental and attitudinal barriers in the workplace can make employment more difficult than it needs to be.
The good news is that workplace adjustments can help remove many of these barriers, making it easier for people with disability to succeed at work. They are often simple, practical, and more affordable than many people expect.
According to JobAccess, Australia’s national hub for disability employment information, even small adjustments can make a significant difference in helping people perform their role and feel comfortable in the workplace.
What are Workplace Adjustments?
Workplace adjustments (sometimes called reasonable adjustments) are changes made to a job, workplace, or work processes to support a person with disability to perform their role safely and effectively.
Every person’s needs are different, so workplace adjustments can look different from one individual to another. They are designed to remove barriers and ensure employees have the same opportunities to contribute and succeed as everyone else.
Examples of workplace adjustments may include:
- Flexible work hours or altered start and finish times
- Working from home arrangements
- Specialised equipment or assistive technology
- Screen-reading software or voice-to-text tools
- Modified workstations or desks
- Ramps, automatic doors, or improved lighting
- Auslan (Australian sign language) interpreting services
- Additional training or workplace support
Many adjustments cost little or nothing to implement but can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to thrive at work.
Why Workplace Adjustments matter
For people with disability, the right support can be the difference between struggling in a job and succeeding in one.
Workplace adjustments can help a person:
- Perform their job more effectively
- Reduce stress and fatigue
- Build confidence and independence
- Improve communication and accessibility
- Remain employed long-term
- Progress in their career
Employers also benefit. According to research by Diversity Council Australia, inclusive workplaces often experience improved staff retention, stronger workplace culture, and access to a wider pool of talented employees.
Removing cost as a barrier: Funding for adjustments
One of the biggest misconceptions about workplace adjustments is that they are expensive. In reality, funding support is available through the Australian Government’s Employment Assistance Fund (EAF).
The EAF, administered through JobAccess, can help cover the cost of workplace modifications, equipment, and support services needed for a person with disability to perform their job.
The fund can assist with:
- Workplace modifications and physical changes
- Assistive technology and specialised equipment
- Communication devices and software
- Changes to work vehicles
- Specialist support services
- Auslan interpreting services
The EAF is available to eligible people with disability who are currently working, about to start a job, or are self-employed. Employers, employees, job seekers, and service providers can apply.
In some cases, a free workplace assessment can also be arranged to identify the most appropriate adjustments and supports.
How families and carers can help
Families and carers often play an important role in supporting someone with disability to find and maintain employment.
If your family member is starting a new job or experiencing challenges at work, encouraging conversations about workplace adjustments can be helpful. This free Conversation Guide on Workplace Adjustments can help prepare a person with disability in discussing workplace adjustments with their employer with greater clarity and confidence.
It is also important to remember that requesting workplace adjustments is not about seeking special treatment. It is about ensuring a person has equitable access to the tools and support they need to perform their role successfully.
Taking the next step
If you or someone you support is considering employment, workplace adjustments are worth exploring. Many people are surprised to discover how simple and effective these supports can be.
The first step is often having an open conversation with an employer and seeking advice from JobAccess. Their free information, assessment services, and Employment Assistance Fund can help people with disability access the support they need to build a successful and sustainable career.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to participate fully in community life, including meaningful employment. With the right adjustments in place, more people with disability can get work, keep work, and achieve their goals with confidence.