What is a workplace adjustment, and how can I implement them at work?

When navigating the workforce, it can be challenging if a disability, injury, or health condition affects your ability to get certain tasks done.

If you are facing challenges, you may find it easier to get your job done after implementing a workplace adjustment.

Workplace adjustments, also known as workplace modifications, can increase comfort, accessibility, productivity, and overall job satisfaction if implemented right.

In this blog, we will discuss exactly what workplace adjustments are, how they benefit you, and how you can get them implemented into your workplace.

What is a workplace adjustment?

Workplace adjustments are modifications or changes made in a workplace to help support the needs of employees, especially those living with a disability, injury, or health condition.

Providing these adjustments means that employees can perform their duties effectively, safely, and in a supported environment.

Examples of workplace adjustments include:

• Special tools and equipment like adjustable chairs or desks
• Flexible work hours or the option to work remotely
• Changes to physical spaces like ramps and automatic doors
• Special training or onboarding
• Assistive technology like screen reader software or text-to-speech technology

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, employers must make ‘reasonable adjustments’ so that an employee with a disability can meet the requirements of their job unless doing so causes ‘unjustifiable hardship’.

How to figure out what adjustments you need

When deciding if you need a workplace adjustment, you’ll need to consider a few factors. Some questions you can ask yourself are:

• Are there any physical barriers that cause you discomfort? What aspects of your workspace could be improved to help your day-to-day?
• Do your work hours clash with your medical needs? Would your performance improve with changed hours or a remote option?
• Are there any tools or software that would help you get tasks done? What types of aids would improve your work output?

If you’re still unsure about what types of changes you might need, you could benefit from chatting with an employment consultant who can help you figure it out.

How to go about implementing workplace adjustments

If you aren’t sure where to start, here are some ways you can approach implementing workplace adjustments in your role:

Talk to your employer

Talking to your employer about getting a workplace adjustment can be daunting.

When you’re approaching your employer, come ready with a clear explanation of what your needs are and how the adjustments will improve your performance and output.

If you come prepared with all the right information, your employer may be more receptive straight away. It's important to remember your legal rights under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

While it is best to approach the topic positively, you may need to gently remind or inform your employer of their obligations under this act if they aren't as receptive.

Some employers may need you to complete a workplace assessment so that they can access government funding for your workplace adjustment.

Employment services like APM can help you submit applications to access funding like this.

Sourcing workplace adjustments yourself

Major modifications aside, many workplace adjustments are straightforward and need little intervention. Some examples of adjustments you can make yourself include:

• Rearranging your workspace to remove any physical barriers
• Organise your tasks and responsibilities to suit your needs as they change. Prioritise tough jobs when you’re feeling up to it, and do simple tasks when you need to wind down.
• Adjust aspects of your physical environment if possible, such as the lighting and temperature of your office or workspace.

Accessing employment services

Disability Employment Service providers can provide support if you are trying to get workplace adjustments implemented in your job.

These services can provide resources for employees to advocate for themselves and help them prepare and submit applications for modifications that will assist them in their day-to-day responsibilities.

Here at APM Employment Services, we're dedicated to making a positive and lasting social impact and enabling better lives every day.

How APM Employment Services can help you access workplace adjustments

Getting a workplace modification doesn’t make you any less fit for a job, it simply means you are giving yourself the tools you need to succeed in your role.

Workplace adjustments can make your job and life much easier. If you’ve recognised a need for a modification in your workplace, APM can help you access the tools and training you need to succeed in your role.

APM can help eligible people living with a disability, injury or health condition find and keep meaningful work, as well as provide ongoing support once a role is secured.

When you join APM, you’ll speak with a friendly employment consultant who will provide you with as much support and guidance as you need in your employment journey, including helping you access workplace adjustments.

If you’d like to discuss your workplace adjustment options more, contact our friendly team or register online.

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au