Workplace adjustments

The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring everyone has fair and equitable opportunities to apply for and perform public sector roles in a safe, inclusive and productive way.

Workplace adjustments are practical measures to ensure people with a disability or other groups experiencing barriers, are able to access and fully participate in the workplace. An adjustment is a support or a change to a role’s design, the way a person or team works, or a facility where a person works. These adjustments can help someone fully participate in an aspect of employment, perform better in their role, or meet one or more of the genuine occupational requirements (parts of the role considered essential).

Examples of workplace adjustments include, but are not limited to:

• a specific chair
• larger monitors and keyboards
• sit to stand desk
• flexible ways of working
• additional or frequent breaks
• having access to a quiet room or space
• using alternative communication channels or supporting alternative learning styles.

Adjustments can be requested by any employee or prospective employee. They generally support people who are neurodivergent, have a disability or a physical or mental health condition, or are a carer, assistant or associate for someone who does. Whilst adjustments can be requested by anyone, there are different legislative frameworks that govern making adjustments in the workplace. More information relating to employer obligations upon receipt of a request can be found under legislative requirements and conditions.

The terms reasonable adjustments, accommodations and workplace adjustments are often used interchangeably. The term workplace adjustments has been adopted for these web pages to reflect a community shift away from the term reasonable.

Discover the principles and good practice approaches that support HR teams, managers and employees considering workplace adjustments.