Changing your work area and methods

At any time, you and your employer may agree to changes that will allow you to do your job better. This might mean making physical changes to your work area. It might mean changing the way you approach your job or how you are supervised.

Examples of changes to a work area or the work premises

• a desk that can be adjusted for height if you are using a wheelchair
• relocating filing cabinets to allow access if you have mobility issues
• increasing lighting if you have vision impairment
• provision of clear markings and colour contrasts on steps or pathways
• a parking space close to the work premises if you are using a wheelchair
• building modifications to allow access to bathroom facilities if you have mobility issues.

Examples of extra equipment or services that can be provided

• lifting equipment if you cannot safely lift heavy objects
• telephone typewriter (TTY) phone access if you are deaf, have hearing loss or have a speech impairment
• screen-reading software if you have vision impairment
• disability-specific equipment such as Braille equipment
• access to Auslan interpreters if you are deaf or have hearing loss.

Examples of changes to work methods

• written instructions, task lists, labels, prompts or reminders if you have memory problems
• clear and constant daily routines if an intellectual disability affects your organisational skills
• modifying the duties involved in the job
• exchanging duties with a co-worker.

Financial help with changing the workplace

If you and your employer agree to make changes to help you do the job, you can tell your employer about the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF). Your employer may be eligible for funding under the EAF to cover the costs of modifying the workplace or purchasing special equipment.

If you work for a larger company or organisation, staff in the human resources department may be able to support you in discussions about changing your work area and methods.

Last updated: 1 July 2016 - 7:30am