What jobs can I do?
A person who is blind or has low vision can usually, with support, continue their current roles. There are very few roles that are not possible to do with some form of adjustment. See list of roles that have been assessed since commencing CWC.
What equipment is available?
Most Assistive Technology is available for funding through EAF. It needs to be justified and this is done through a rigorous on site assessment. A report is prepared which details what barriers and what solutions are available is prepared.
What isn’t available?
Certain items can’t be funded. These include: spectacles, hearing aids and wheelchairs. JobAccess and the EAF also do not fund support staff.
Is there a $ limit for funding?
JobAccess and the EAF fund items as required. If it is recommended and approved, it can be purchased. There needs to be a demonstrated reason for equipment in order to be funded.
What is the reimbursement process?
EAF is a reimbursement system. Once approval is provided, the equipment can be purchased. On production of a Zero Balance Invoice, the approved amounts are refunded. Equipment purchased prior to approval is not reimbursed. Equipment not approved is not reimbursed.
How do I get an assessment?
You, your employer or Disability Service Provider need to contact JobAccess directly and make an application. Once an application is successful, an approved assessor will be appointed to conduct the assessment.
What is EAF?
Employees Assistance Fund is financial aid to assist people with disability or mental health conditions to overcome barriers to employment. Details are on JobAccess website.
Where can I get the equipment?
When the report and recommendations are completed, a quote will be included detailing equipment, price and supplier(s).
Do you do NDIS assessments?
Chris Waller Consulting do not complete Assistive Technology assessments for NDIS at this stage.
How long does an assessment take?
An assessment can take between 45 minutes and two hours, depending on the level of questions and variety or equipment to be discussed. Appointments are made for 2 hours.
How long before I get equipment?
Once all approvals and forms have been completed, the equipment can be ordered. Supply of the equipment will depend on supplier inventory levels. The assessment and report need to be completed within 14 days of receiving the referral. Several factors may delay the report and then the approvals, such as local I.T. approval or sourcing of specialist equipment, but most reports are completed within the 14 day period.
Does my Boss have to know?
Yes, employer support is essential to overcoming barriers in the workplace.
Who is JobAccess?
JobAccess is the national hub for workplace and employment information for people with disability, employers and service providers. Created by the Australian Government, it brings together the information and resources that can ‘drive disability employment’.
Do you work for JobAccess?
No, Chris Waller Consulting are contracted by JobAccess to provide specialist assessments for people who are blind or have low vision. Assessments can be conducted for people who have difficulty hearing or have vision and hearing loss.
Do you do assessments in my area?
Chris Waller Consulting will cover assessments in NSW (including regional areas) and the ACT. With approval from JobAccess, assessments can be conducted interstate and have been completed in QLD, SA, TAS, NT and VIC.