ADHD at Work? There May Be Funding for Support
You may be able to get help making work better for your brain.
ADHD can bring some pretty great strengths to the workplace. You might be creative, curious, highly energetic, good at seeing the bigger picture or able to hyperfocus when something really captures your attention. ADHD can also mean that some workplace systems and environments create unnecessary barriers. Things like:
Managing competing priorities
Starting tasks
Keeping track of time
Remembering instructions
Organising information
Staying focused around distractions
Managing interruptionsSensory overload from noise, lighting or open-plan environments
Switching between tasks
Managing large or unclear workloads
The issue isn't necessarily a lack of ability. Sometimes, the way work is structured simply doesn't work well with the way an ADHD brain functions. And this is where workplace adjustments and support can make a difference.
What is the Employment Assistance Fund?
The Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) is an Australian Government program administered through JobAccess. The EAF can provide funding towards eligible workplace modifications, equipment and support services for people with disability. Depending on your circumstances, this may include support to help you perform your job, look for work or participate more effectively in the workplace.The purpose isn't to "fix" your ADHD. It's about reducing barriers so you can participate in work and perform your role more effectively. For someone with ADHD, that might mean finding practical ways to address difficulties with attention, organisation, information processing, sensory demands or other workplace barriers.
What could ADHD workplace support look like?
Everyone's ADHD is different, so the type of support that may be useful will also be different. The EAF doesn't provide a standard package of "ADHD supports."Instead, JobAccess considers the individual's circumstances, workplace barriers and the support being requested. Depending on your situation, potential supports could include workplace equipment, assistive technology, workplace modifications, specialised support or training.
ADHD coaching and specialised support
For some people with ADHD, specialised support may help identify workplace barriers and develop practical strategies.This could involve areas such as:
Executive functioning
Organisation
Time management
Task initiation
Workload management
Workplace communication
Managing competing priorities
Developing practical workplace strategies. At Mind Over Matters, our ADHD coaching focuses on understanding how ADHD affects you in real-world situations and developing practical, neuroaffirming strategies.In other words, less: "Why can't I just do this?"And more:"What would actually make this easier? "Could this type of support be funded through the EAF? That depends on your individual circumstances and JobAccess's assessment.EAF funding is not automatically available for ADHD coaching simply because someone has an ADHD diagnosis. If you're considering applying for funding for specialised ADHD-related support, we recommend speaking with JobAccess about whether the specific support you require may be eligible before proceeding.
Could you be eligible for the EAF?
Eligibility isn't simply based on having an ADHD diagnosis. JobAccess considers your disability, your work circumstances and the support you require. Current EAF eligibility requirements include having an ongoing disability that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least two years and affects your ability to work. There are also specific requirements relating to your employment or self-employment circumstances, including minimum hours and expected duration of work.JobAccess assesses applications individually, so it's important to check the current eligibility requirements rather than assuming that a diagnosis automatically means you qualify.
What if you're looking for work?
Workplace support doesn't necessarily have to begin after you've secured a job. The EAF may also assist eligible people who are looking for work.Depending on your circumstances, this can include certain supports that assist with finding or starting employment. If ADHD is creating barriers during the job-search process, it may be worth asking JobAccess whether the support you're considering could fall within the EAF.
Is applying difficult?
The EAF application process is designed to be completed through JobAccess.You can apply online and JobAccess provides information about the evidence and documentation you may need. Depending on the support being requested, a Workplace Modification Assessment may also be available to help identify appropriate workplace supports.If you're unsure whether something may be eligible, you can contact a JobAccess Adviser before making decisions about purchasing equipment or services.
One important thing to remember
Don't purchase equipment or services expecting EAF reimbursement before receiving approval. If you think you may need support, speak with JobAccess first and check whether the proposed support is eligible.
Sometimes the answer isn't "try harder"
Many people with ADHD spend years trying to compensate for difficulties by working harder.
More lists.
More alarms.
More pressure.
More self-criticism
Sometimes those strategies help. But sometimes the better question is: What could we change about the environment, expectations, systems or tools instead? Workplace adjustments aren't about giving someone an unfair advantage. They're about reducing unnecessary barriers so a person can demonstrate what they're actually capable of.
ADHD isn't something that needs fixing
ADHD is a different way of thinking, processing information and experiencing the world.The aim of workplace support isn't to make you "less ADHD". It's about creating conditions where your strengths can be used while reducing the barriers that make work unnecessarily difficult.Sometimes the answer isn't:"Try harder."Sometimes it's:"Let's find a better way."
Looking for ADHD workplace support?
Mind Over Matters provides ADHD coaching and ADHD therapeutic support. We support individuals and workplaces to better understand ADHD and develop practical, neuroaffirming approaches to work.Whether you're struggling with executive functioning, organisation, workload management, communication or simply trying to understand why traditional workplace systems don't seem to work for you, we can help you explore practical strategies. Importantly, our services are not automatically funded through the EAF. If you're considering seeking EAF assistance for workplace support, we recommend contacting JobAccess first to discuss your individual circumstances and whether the support you require may be eligible.
Want to find out whether EAF could help?
For current eligibility information, funding conditions and applications, visit JobAccess. You can also contact a JobAccess Adviser on 1800 464 800. If you are approved of Employment Assistance Funding and would like work with us you can Book Online or Contact Us if you have any more questions. Mind Over Matters provides in person support at our Swan Hill location or we can support you via telehealth Australia Wide.
Please note: EAF eligibility and funding decisions are made by JobAccess. Funding for particular supports, services or equipment is not guaranteed, and eligibility should be confirmed with JobAccess before proceeding.