Employment Assistance Fund (EAF)
The Employment Assistance Fund is financial support from the Australian Government for workplace modifications.
Summary
Workplace modifications can help adapt your environment to make work tasks more accessible if you have low vision. These adaptions may include improved lighting, high-contrast labelling, screen reading software, or adjustable desks and monitors. Your employer is legally required to provide reasonable workplace adjustments that may be needed to support you in the workplace. Through the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) the employer can receive government reimbursement for associated costs.
Who is eligible for the EAF?
The EAF supports people with accessibility requirements who are currently working, about to start work, or self-employed. It can be accessed by you or your employer. To be eligible for the EAF, you must be an Australian resident, and your employment must be going to last for at least 13 weeks, working a minimum of 8 hours each week. More information about eligibility for the EAF can be found on the JobAccess website.
What does the EAF cover?
The EAF can be used for a variety of different modifications, depending on what is most useful for you. Modifications covered by the EAF which might be useful for low vision include screen reading software, digital and physical magnifiers, accessible applications, building modifications, and more. You can also get a free workplace assessment by JobAccess to help determine which modifications may be most useful for you.
How can I apply for the EAF?
Applications for the EAF can be submitted by you or your employer through the JobAccess Secure portal. Let them know what modifications you require and if known, the expected costs. They will then review your request and let you know if a workplace assessment is required for its approval. Once they have approved your request, you or your employer can purchase the modifications, and the government will reimburse you for the cost.
For more information
The JobAccess website has a range of information and support to help you access the EAF. You can also access the JobAccess Secure portal through the website to lodge your application when ready.
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