Support for people with disabilities

At ACU, we embrace the diversity of individuals who make up our community. We are committed to accommodating the needs of people with disabilities, to ensure an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their talents.

What is disability?

Disability is a diversity characteristic that can be temporary, permanent or intermittent and can be visible or invisible to others. When inclusivity and adjustments aren’t considered, a disability can hinder a person’s full and effective participation in society, including the workplace.

Disability may include:

  • physical impairments
  • neurological conditions or neurodivergence
  • medical conditions
  •  vision and hearing conditions
  •  mental health conditions
  • mobility impairments
  • intellectual disabilities
  •  temporary injuries and/or conditions
  • learning disorders
 
 
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported in 2018 that 17.7 per cent of the Australian population have a disability[1]. While this means almost one in five Australians are directly impacted, many can work and manage their everyday lives without assistance or adjustments.

The university offers support to people with disabilities when it’s required, consistent with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1992.

Workplace assistance for people with a disability

ACU welcomes employment applications from people with disabilities and support is available to help you navigate the application process.

New and existing staff who require support, or assistance with adjustments to the workplace, can:

For supervisors:

The Job Access conversation guide – Making workplace adjustments easy, effective and equitable may be helpful.

Job Access is the national hub for workplace and employment information for people with disability, employers and service providers.

Job Access provides help and workplace solutions for people with disabilities and their employers, including information regarding financial assistance offered by the Commonwealth Government. Watch this brief video from their Employer Toolkit for an overview of the assistance offered.

For more information, visit JobAccess or phone 1800 464 800.

Support available

ACU proudly supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which assists people with non-visible disabilities in a discreet and supportive way. Staff members are encouraged to get involved and become sunflower champions.

Free confidential counselling is available for staff and their immediate family through the Employee Assistance Program. A dedicated help line for people with disability and carers is available by calling 1300 561 043.

Unlawful behaviour, including harassment or discrimination of a person with a disability or their family members, is not tolerated at ACU. Anyone experiencing or witnessing inappropriate behaviour can raise their concerns with their supervisor, lodge a formal complaint or seek assistance from People and Capability by lodging a Service Central request. More information and resources are available here.

Useful links

[1] Australian Bureau of Statistics (2018), Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Summary of Findings, ABS Website, accessed 14 June 2024.

Page last updated on 23/07/2024

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