Vision Australia Radio is proud to welcome Job Access as its latest station sponsor.
Starting a new job. Staying in a job you love. Returning to work after time away. Every stage of working life can raise questions – and for people who are blind or have low vision, one of the biggest questions is often: what support is available?
JobAccess is the Australian Government's free, national service that helps answer that question. It supports people with disability, employers, and service providers across Australia to build inclusive workplaces that work for everyone.
How JobAccess supports you at work – at every stage of your employment journey
JobAccess can help people with disability at any stage of your working life. Whether you're:
- Looking for work for the first time
- Leaving school and thinking about your future
- Returning to work after a break
- Starting a new job
- Needing support to stay in your current role
The advice is free, confidential and practical.
You don't need to have all the answers before you call. An adviser can talk through your rights, how to raise workplace adjustments with an employer, and where to find other support. The JobAccess website also has guides on responding to selection criteria and preparing for an interview - visit the JobAccess Downloadable Files webpage.
What employers need to know about inclusive workplaces
Creating an inclusive workplace often comes down to a few practical changes. These are called workplace adjustments – simple, reasonable changes that help someone do their job well.
For people who are blind or have low vision, common adjustments include:
- screen readers and magnification software
- braille displays or note-taking devices
- better lighting and workspace layout
- training staff to use assistive technology properly.
Did you know, many workplace adjustments are low-cost, and some cost nothing at all?
Plus, depending on your eligibility, funding may be available to help. Inclusive workplaces don't just benefit the employee – they often lead to better systems and processes for the whole team.
Funding support through the Employment Assistance Fund
Cost shouldn't be a barrier to getting the right equipment or training. That's where the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) comes in.
The EAF can help pay for workplace adjustments. A workplace adjustment is a change that helps a person do their job effectively and safely. For someone who is blind or has low vision, that might mean funding for screen-reading software, a braille display or training to use new equipment confidently.
Applying is simpler than many people expect. The process is free, and JobAccess can guide you through each step.
You don't need to navigate it alone
Looking for work with vision loss can feel overwhelming. You may be unsure what support is available or whether you can ask for workplace adjustments.
JobAccess can help you understand your options, discuss workplace barriers and connect you with the right support.
You don't need to have all the answers before you call.
Not sure where to start?
A conversation can be a good first step.
Whether you're an individual looking for support, an employer wanting to create a more inclusive workplace, or a family member helping someone else navigate their career, JobAccess is here to help.
Call 1800 464 800 or visit jobaccess.gov.au to find out more.
JobAccess offers free, confidential advice to help people with disability find, keep and grow in work.
Keep listening to Vision Australia Radio for more on JobAccess as we continue to work together, and create content in support of our diverse listening community.
