Disability assistance
ATIS-011
Version 3
January 2011
Disability assistance [PDF 62kb]
Assistance and support for apprentices and trainees with disabilities may be available from a range of sources.
Information to get you started
What is it?
Training organisations are required to make 'reasonable adjustments' by adapting their training delivery methods to ensure equity and full access to training by apprentices and trainees with a disability.
Why is it important?
Support while training with the training organisation is best arranged at the commencement of the apprenticeship or traineeship and included in the training plan. The training organisation can not deny services or training to an apprentice or trainee because they have a disability.
What support is available?*
*Please note that services mentioned in this information sheet may be subject to eligibility criteria.
Disability support officers
Training organisations may employ a disability support officer to coordinate support and assistance for students with a disability. For further information, contact your training organisation.
Vocational Education and Training Disability Support Service
The Department of Education and Training's (DET) Vocational Education and Training Disability Support Service (VDSS) provides, through training organisations, support for eligible apprentices and trainees in the areas of:
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assessment of learning support requirements
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adaptive equipment, and training in its use (software)
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support personnel (AUSLAN interpreters and specialist support workers).
For further information, training organisations can contact 07 3259 4577 or search VDSS on the Training Qld website.
Australian government assistance
Employers of an apprentice or trainee with a medically-based disability may be eligible for Australian government assistance and support. For further information, contact an Australian Apprenticeships Centre on 13 38 73.
JobAccess
Funded by the Australian government, this service offers help and workplace solutions for people with a disability and their employers. For further information, contact 1800 464 800 or visit www.jobaccess.gov.au.
CRS Australia
An Australian government service providing employers with a range of services to support the apprentice or trainee through assessment. For further information, contact 1800 277 277 or visit www.crsaustralia.gov.au.