Do I have to tell my employer?

Choosing to tell someone about your low vision is a personal choice. It's not one you should feel rushed into, but when you are ready, it's important to understand your rights and how they protect you under Australian law.

You are only legally required to disclose your low vision if it affects your ability to do your job. If you need workplace accommodations, telling your employer about your vision changes allows them to work with you to identify and implement the modifications which are most useful to you. When discussing a low vision diagnosis with your employer, you don't have to go into any details you aren't comfortable with. You only have to share any changes in your ability to complete the inherent requirements of your job, and what adjustments you might require.

Workplace modifications

Employers are legally required to make reasonable adjustments to your workplace or responsibilities to include any accessibility requirements you may have, such as a larger workspace or computer monitor. Financial assistance for workplaces making accessible accommodations can be provided through the Employment Assistance Fund. An assessment by your local Guide Dogs Orthoptic team or a Workplace Modification Assessment by Job Access can help you determine what adjustments may be most helpful for you.

Applying for a job

Potential employers have the same obligations as current employers when making adjustments in the workplace. If you disclose your low vision with them and share details about the modifications you might require, they cannot discriminate against your application on the basis of this information. You have the right to be considered equally to all other prospective candidates.

The only grounds in which an employer can choose not to hire someone is if they are unable to fulfill the “inherent requirements” of the job after addressing accessibility obstacles. For instance, if you are no longer able to hold a license, you may not fit the "inherent requirements" of a bus driver, but this would not affect your ability to perform “inherent requirements” of an accountant or lawyer.

What if I experience discrimination?

If you have experienced discrimination, there are multiple avenues of redress available to you. If you are comfortable and safe in doing so, a good initial step can be to raise the issue directly with the person or group responsible. Alternatively, you may feel more comfortable raising the issue with your HR representative.

You can also reach out to the Australian Centre for Disability Law on their website or on 1800 800 708 for free legal advice regarding your discrimination complaint.

If raising the issue with the individual, your manager, or your company's HR is unsuccessful or unfeasible, you can contact the Australian Human Rights Commission and lodge a complaint. You can also make a complaint on the AHRC website or contact them over the phone on 1300 656 419 for further assistance.