Advice to job applicants with a disability

Should I identify as having a disability in my application?

If you would like to have a person with a disability on the selection panel (where possible), you must state that you have a disability. You may want to say that you would like to discuss possibilities for work-related adjustments in your covering letter.

However it is your choice as to whether you make the decision to disclose your disability at this point of the application process.

Can I make a request for adjustments for the interview?

Yes you can make requests for adjustments for the interview. It is NSW Government policy to ensure that people with a disability have equal access and opportunity in the recruitment process. Requests for adjustments are subject to meeting inherent requirements and where the request does not place an unjustifiable hardship on the employer.

If you are chosen for an interview, you will be contacted by phone. This is the time to say whether you need anything to assist you at the interview, for example if you need:

• wheelchair access into or around the building
• an Auslan interpreter
• to bring a guide dog.

Can I make requests for workplace adjustments once I've been offered a position?

Yes. You can make requests for workplace adjustments once you have been offered a position. Your request may include adjusting the work environment and/or adjusting the job tasks.

You do not have to disclose your disability during the application process. However, you could discuss your disability at the interview if you felt it would help your application. For example, you may explain to the panel why your disability will not affect your ability to do the job. Or, you may want to briefly discuss how the job could be adjusted to allow for your disability. Examples are:

• equipment which will allow you to perform the job with greater efficiency
• exchanging some tasks of a job for tasks of another position
• altering the physical layout of the work area.

These matters cannot be finalised at the interview. They will be negotiated in detail with you if you are the successful applicant.

Requests for adjustments are subject to meeting inherent requirements and where the request does not place an unjustifiable hardship on the employer.

• Making work related adjustments