For many people living with an acquired brain injury, returning to work is an important part of recovery.
At the right time and with the right support, working can boost your confidence, improve your mental well being and help you connect with your community in a meaningful way.
Whether you’re ready to get back into your previous job or are planning a new career path, support is available to help you succeed.
Knowing when to return to work
Returning to work after an acquired brain injury can be an important step in getting back your sense of identity and stability.
During the transition back to work, it’s a good idea to work closely with your healthcare team, loved ones and employer to ensure you’re able to manage your health properly.
Easing back into work can take time. Many people find that working part time hours or having a reduced workload can make the transition easier.
If you’re not sure what your current capacity is, a work trial can help you and your healthcare team figure out a return to work plan that’s right for you.
An acquired brain injury employment services provider can help you access any accommodations or on the job training you might need as you get back to work.
Finding work
Some people are able to return to the same type of work, if not the same job, after their injury.
Small changes or reasonable adjustments at work can help you manage any new challenges or needs you might have.
Other people decide to look for a new type of job after their injury.
Even if you are working in a new industry, you likely have skills and strengths you can transfer from your previous employment experience.
It’s helpful to speak with an employment consultant about what types of jobs and career paths might be a good fit for you.
An employment consultant can help you access work experience opportunities, workplace accommodations, financial support and other support services you might be eligible for.
Understanding your rights in the workplace
Your capacity, abilities and needs might have changed since your injury, but you’re still entitled to the same workplace rights as everyone else.
In Australia, the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) states that people living with disability have equal rights when it comes to finding work and holding down a job.
Your disability should only be taken into account when it’s reasonable to do so.
For example, if it prevents you from performing the essential tasks of a job.
An employer cannot unfairly dismiss you from a job, refuse to hire you or treat you differently to other employees because of your disability.
Australian employers are also required to make reasonable adjustments so that you can do your job properly and safely.
This may include things like providing special equipment you need to do your job, ensuring you can access the workplace safely or allowing you to work from home.
If you feel that you have been unfairly treated by an employer, you can make a complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Workplace accommodations
Workplace accommodations are changes to your job role, schedule or physical workplace that help you do your job properly and safely.
Accommodations can help you feel more confident at work, and make it easier to do your job well.
Employers are legally required to make reasonable adjustments at work so you can do your job properly and safely.
You and your employer may be eligible for funding to make some types of reasonable adjustments through the Employment Assistance Fund.
Examples of workplace accommodations include:
- Scheduled breaks throughout the day to help you manage fatigue
- Working from home
- Working part time hours
- Flexible start or end times
- Specialist equipment to help with mobility
- Supervision and/or a support buddy
- Software to help with organisation and memory
Workplace accommodations are unique to your situation and needs.
If you’re not sure what type of support you need at work, a Disability Employment Services provider can organise a workplace assessment for you.
Where to get employment support
Returning to work after an acquired brain injury can be a big step.
Having support when looking for work, preparing for a new job or coping in the workplace can make all the difference.
Disability Employment Services is a government funded program that helps people living with injury, illness or disability find and keep a job.Â
If you’re living with an acquired brain injury you may be eligible for this program, whether you are looking for a job or need support to stay in your current role.
You can access Disability Employment Services by getting a referral from Centrelink or by contacting a local provider directly.
Other support services you may be eligible for:
- Workforce Australia – the Australian government’s mainstream employment service.
- Employment Assistance Fund – funding for some types of reasonable adjustments.
- Centrelink payments – a range of financial supports.
- Local support groups – online and in-person groups of others who have similar experiences to you.
Succeeding at work
It’s important to stay in contact with your healthcare team and support network during your transition back to work.
Living with an acquired brain injury can have an impact on your mental health. If you’re finding it hard to cope, it’s important to reach out for help.
With the right support in place, returning to work can become an important part of your recovery journey.
Many people find that work has life changing benefits for their mental well being and quality of life.
