Inclusion and Accessibility at Work

Surf Coast Shire council is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace where all employees can thrive. In line with this commitment, we are pleased to introduce our Workplace Adjustments Policy(PDF, 653KB).

This policy ensures that Surf Coast Shire Council provides the necessary support to employees and potential employees with disability, mental health conditions, access needs, or those who are carers of people with disability.

What Does This Mean for You?

The policy provides clear principles and procedures for requesting and implementing reasonable workplace adjustments to ensure that all employees can perform their roles effectively. Adjustments may relate to job design, recruitment, training, performance management, or workplace accessibility.

Key Highlights of the Policy

  • Inclusion: We strive to make all aspects of employment accessible and inclusive.

  • Timely Adjustments: Requests for workplace adjustments will be reviewed and actioned promptly.

  • Confidentiality: Any personal or health-related information will be protected and shared only with consent.

  • Support and Training: Supervisors and People & Culture will receive training to ensure they can implement adjustments effectively.

  • Ongoing Review: Adjustments will be regularly reviewed to ensure they remain appropriate and effective.

  • Collaboration: We encourage open conversations between employees and supervisors to determine the best adjustments.

You can find further details on workplace adjustments and available support in our Workplace Adjustment Policy(PDF, 653KB)  

 

Workplace adjustments during the recruitment process

Examples of workplace adjustments during the recruitment process include (but are not limited to):

 

Job application:

  • Phone / online discussion with supervisor about the role
  • Phone / online discussion with P&C team member about application process
  • Tips for a good application
  • Contact disability employment support provider for assistance with job application (Job Access)

 

Interviews:

  • Remote or online interview
  • Written information to support the interview process
  • Accessing facilities
  • Hearing and visual aids
  • Regular breaks in the interview process
  • Interpreters
  • Support persons
  • Access to quiet space

 

Examples of possible workplace adjustments for employees can be found at the end of the Workplace Adjustment Policy.(PDF, 653KB)

 

Process for requesting workplace adjustments?

For potential employees, requests can be made regarding adjustments for submitting job applications or attending interviews by contacting our Recruitment Advisor – recruitment@surfcoast.gov.vic.au

All requests will be reviewed within 3 business days and a member of the Human Resources team will be in contact. 

 

What information do I need to provide?

Whilst some employees and potential employees may feel comfortable to share details about their disability or access need, it is not necessary to provide information about a your illness, injury or disability unless it impacts their ability to perform the inherent requirements of the role.

The focus should be on the reasonable adjustment required. 

 

Find a Disability Employment Service Provider

Disability Employment Services (DES) can help you find and keep a job if you have a disability, injury or health condition.

 


Equal employment opportunity

Surf Coast Shire Council is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. We provide fair, equitable, and non-discriminatory consideration to all applicants, regardless of age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. We acknowledge our responsibility to comply with equal opportunity and workplace legislation while striving to eliminate all forms of discrimination. We are also dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace that enables people with disability, specific needs, or caring responsibilities to fully participate in all aspects of employment. If you require any adjustments during the application and recruitment process, please contact us on recruitment@surfcoast.vic.gov.au

Find out about our commitment to diversity