JobAccess survey shows workplace adjustments key to sustainable employment for people with disability
12 February 2024- In a first of its kind survey, JobAccess engages employers and employees two years after they received workplace adjustments through the Employment Assistance Fund
- Survey identifies tangible impact of adjustments, such as long-term employment, higher productivity and improved financial wellbeing
- 94 per cent of employees reported being more productive, while 96 per cent were still employed two years after receiving adjustments
JobAccess has released findings from a first-of-its-kind survey that highlights the direct impact of workplace adjustments on long-term employment for people with disability.
The survey drew feedback from employers and employees with disability two years after they received support and financial assistance for workplace adjustments through the Australian Government’s Employment Assistance Fund (EAF).
The survey found that employees who received workplace adjustments reap long-term employment benefits. These include sustainable work, enhanced productivity, and improved financial wellbeing.
The EAF offers financial support to employers and people with disability to make a range of workplace adjustments. These can include making physical modifications to the workplace, purchasing assistive technology, disability awareness training or one-to-one support services that help remove disability-specific barriers. JobAccess manages and administers the EAF.
JobAccess General Manager Daniel Valiente-Riedl said, “Australia's disability employment gap of over 30% has remained unchanged over the last two decades. Employers can bridge this gap and make their workplace more inclusive and productive by implementing the right policies, good practices and tools.”
“Among all, workplace adjustments are the simplest and most effective tool. It enables people with disability to have equitable employment opportunities and work efficiently and comfortably. The survey results present evidence of the impact of workplace adjustments and EAF support through JobAccess.”
The survey indicates a high level of sustained employment for the EAF recipients and continuation of employment with the same employer. Ninety-six per cent of respondents were still employed two years after receiving workplace adjustments funded by the EAF.
Improvements in productivity and higher job satisfaction were also noted. Ninety-four per cent of respondents reported being more productive after the implementation of adjustments, while 98 per cent said that work adds value to their life.
Since 2006, JobAccess has helped over 452,000 people with disability, employers and service providers with advice and support, and managed over 65,000 applications for workplace modifications through the EAF.
One of the recipients said, “JobAccess is essential, and if it did not exist, I would not be employable… full time and job at level — can contribute to superannuation — can retire comfortably — and with less Government welfare support.”
Contact JobAccess on 1800 464 800 to speak to our Advisers for confidential and tailored advice on workplace adjustments. Visit the JobAccess website for more information on workplace adjustments through EAF.
View the results: JobAccess survey - The impact of workplace adjustments, two years on.
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