This blog post summarises the key insights from the latest Virtual Education Session (VES) presented by Amanda, Kate, and Dylan. 

Amanda is the Chair of the Board for Scleroderma Australia and the President for Scleroderma Victoria.  She has a background as an access and inclusion consultant and in the disability employment sector, developing disability action plans. With scleroderma herself, she understands the struggles that can come with scleroderma and the workplace firsthand. 

For more free resources, access our in-depth and targeted information brochures here, or access our work-specific scleroderma brouchure here. This brochure offers guidance on discussing scleroderma with employers, including what adjustments can be made and what rights employees have under the Disability Discrimination Act.

Legal Obligations of Disability Disclosure in the Workplace

Under the Fair Work Act, employees are not legally required to disclose their disability unless it affects their ability to meet the inherent requirements of the role, work safely, or ensure the safety of others. The focus, instead, should be on identifying barriers caused by the disability and requesting workplace adjustments to address them.

The Social Model of Disability + Workplace Adjustments

This model is a common representation which emphasises how society’s barriers, rather than the individual’s condition, disable people. The model advocates for a shift in thinking and creating an accessible environment that allows individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

Categories of Workplace Adjustments

Workplace adjustments come in many forms. Here are some of the most common types to help you identify what may benefit your own needs:

  • Work Methods: Changing how tasks are performed, like using speech recognition software instead of typing.
  • Work Arrangements: Modifications like flexible hours, working from home, or adjustments for travel based on accessibility needs.
  • Workplace Equipment: Adjustments such as ergonomic furniture or specialised hardware.
  • Work-Related Communication: Adjusting how information is shared (e.g., captioning in virtual meetings, using interpreters).

Legal Framework and Considerations 

The Disability Discrimination Act allows for these adjustments, but employers can deny them if they cause unjustifiable hardship (e.g., excessive cost or operational disruption). The Fair Work Act also mandates flexibility for employees with disabilities, and employees can request these adjustments, even if management changes.

Impact on Volunteers vs Paid Employees

Workplace protections and adjustments differ for paid employees and volunteers. For example, a government organisation may have stricter policies regarding health and safety, especially when it comes to volunteers in risky environments like bushfires.

Job Access and Employer Assistance Fund (EAF)

Job Access is a government program that provides workplace assessments and funding to help individuals with disabilities make necessary adjustments at no cost to the employer. This is a great resource for those who might need specific equipment or workplace modifications.

Managing Conversations with Employers

One of the challenges raised was the lack of awareness among some managers about their obligations under the law. The conversation guide on the Job Access website is designed to help employees approach these conversations with confidence.

The Future of Scleroderma and the Workplace

There’s a new research project underway focused on scleroderma and its impact on work. The steering committee, which includes Amanda, will explore how people with scleroderma might need to leave work early due to health issues and what those impacts look like.

For those living with Scleroderma, staying updated and informed can make a world of difference. Connecting with others can also be hugely beneficial. Find out more about support in your area here. 

If you’d like to gain firsthand knowledge, our National Education Sessions and Virtual Education Sessions are available to you at no charge. Our Virtual Education Sessions are held every month through Google Meet. You can sign up for these free Virtual Education Sessions here.

These sessions provide an opportunity to engage with medical professionals and seasoned legal experts who will address common inquiries about Scleroderma and related topics.