Jobs for people with cystic fibrosis

If you're living with cystic fibrosis and looking for a job, the process can be challenging.
That's why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports your long-term
physical wellbeing is our mission.

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Two co-workers having a conversation in a store room

Find a job that works for you

If you're living with cystic fibrosis and looking for work, you aren't alone. There are many Australians also managing cystic fibrosis while pursuing their career goals.

Searching for fulfilling work while managing varying symptoms can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.

Finding meaningful work while living with cystic fibrosis is worthwhile as it can:

Give you a sense of structure and purpose
Promote physical activity
Build your confidence
Help develop useful skills
Allow you to have financial independence

Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with cystic fibrosis.

Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.

Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with cystic fibrosis.

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What to look for in a job when you have cystic fibrosis

People living with cystic fibrosis are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.

Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage symptoms.

While everyone’s experience living with cystic fibrosis is different, you may like to ask yourself the following questions when looking for a role:

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Job ideas for people with cystic fibrosis

Everyone experiences cystic fibrosis differently, so there is no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for you.

However, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.

When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.

It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.

If you would like more support, speaking to an Employment Consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.

A woman having a video call on her laptop

Jobs with flexibility in hours and/or location

Freelance writer
Web developer
Graphic designer
Data entry clerk
Online tutor
Retail sales assistant
Delivery driver
Social media manager

Jobs that can have safe environments

Librarian
Receptionist
Accountant
Bank teller
Customer service representative
Telemarketer
Graphic designer
Editor

Jobs with accessible environments

Telehealth nurse
Tutor
Social media manager
Legal assistant
Researcher
Receptionist
Administrative assistant
Financial advisor
Marketing coordinator

* Please note that these job suggestions may not be suitable for everyone with cystic fibrosis. These job suggestions may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with cystic fibrosis.

What employment support can I access?

If you're living with an injury, illness, or health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.

If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, (cystic fibrosis is a supported health condition), APM can provide support to assist you to find work.

Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.

We can help with:

Career advice
Finding suitable job opportunities
Meeting local employers
Writing resumes and job applications
Preparing for job interviews
Accessing training
Accessing mental health support
Ongoing workplace support
Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you

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An APM employee in a black polo smiles in conversation with a DES participant

Ready to get started?

Register now to see if you’re eligible for our, Disability Employment Services program and start your employment journey.

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Success stories from people who achieved their goals through Disability Employment Services

Get a personal job plan

APM can help you find fulfilling work by building you a job plan that’s tailored to your needs.

Identify your strengths:

Many strengths can come from your life experience, including living with cystic fibrosis (rather than just your work history). It’s important to identify these as they can be valuable in the workforce.
Your strengths could include things like adaptability, communication, creativity, empathy, critical thinking & much more that can be valuable in many roles.
Identifying your strengths on your own can be hard. If you need a hand, our team at APM would love to help—our goal is to help you find a job that suits your strengths, skills and interests, and we are committed to supporting you throughout the entire process.

Building a job program around you:

Explore realistic job options where you can succeed
Develop a personal strategy that includes job searches, resumes and interviews
Discuss your support needs with your employer
Look at any requirements for equipment or workplace modifications to help you perform a specific job
Consider what support you might need when you start working

Get started in three easy steps

Step one

artwork of a job seeker registering for DES with APM

Our support doesn't stop when you start working

We also want to make sure you and your employer have everything you need to be successful together.

Depending on your level of support and the job you start, we work together to make sure you’re able to work safely and effectively.

This can include helping you access training, job coaching or tools for the workplace as well as understanding the workplace culture and what is expected from you.

We also support workplaces with proactive education to be aware of any impacts your epilepsy may have so we can create a culture of support and inclusion.

If you need ongoing support for long periods of time we will also discuss this with you and establish a support structure.

Our goal is to see you enjoy rewarding and long-term employment and ensure you have the right level of support to succeed.

Get in touch with our teams to find out more.

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DES participant Ngaire with her employer and APM consultant walking outside a rural property

Other advice and resources that may help you find a job

How to craft the perfect resume for people living with a disability

In this guide to resume writing for people with disability, you will find information about what to put in your resume, how to structure it and ways to make it stand out.

Read more

An illustration of 4 people working on a giant resume

How to find your dream job

Explore various strategies to find your dream job. From internet searches to networking and cold calling, discover effective job-hunting techniques.

Read more

Two cafe workers standing at the front counter

Tips for a successful job interview

Get tips for a successful job interview. Learn how to prepare, answer common questions, and make a positive impression on your potential employer.

Read more

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.

Jobs for people with cystic fibrosis

Find a job that works for you

What to look for in a job when you have cystic fibrosis

Do you need flexibility?

Are there any health or safety concerns?

What type of environment is suitable for your needs?

Job ideas for people with cystic fibrosis