The Australian Government, through the Workforce Australia Wage Subsidy and the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF), offers funding to help cover the costs of successfully hiring people with disability, as well as making a range of workplace adjustments.
Financial Support
Financial Support to become an inclusive employer
** Please note that the following information was accurate at time of publishing **
Workplace Adjustments
This includes changes that can be made to your workplace to ensure that people with disability can effectively perform their job. They may include:
- Physical changes to a workplace to make it more accessible (such as ramps, workstation customisation, bathrooms and lighting)
- Communication equipment and assistive technology (such as headsets, text to speech software and touch screens)
- Auslan interpreting services
- Specialist support and training
To learn more visit JobAccess
Wage Subsidies
Employers may be eligible for government wage subsidies up to $10,000 when hiring people with a disability, for a minimum period of 26 weeks.
The total subsidy amount typically increases based on weekly hours worked, for example:
- Around 8 hours per week → up to $3,000
- Around 15 hours per week → up to $5,000
- Around 23 hours per week → up to $7,500
- 30+ hours per week → up to $10,000
Exact amounts and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the employment services provider and individual circumstances.
Traineeship or Apprenticeship Wage Support (DAAWS)
Employers may be eligible for government wage support when hiring an apprentice or trainee with disability through the Disability Australian Apprentice Wage Support (DAAWS).
Support is paid over the course of the apprenticeship or traineeship and typically totals over $10,000, depending on participation and hours worked.
For example:
- Minimum average of 15 hours per week (including training) required
- Part-time apprentices/trainees → lower total support payments
- Full-time apprentices/trainees (around 35–38 hours per week) → typically over $10,000 paid progressively over the training period
Exact amounts and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the provider and individual circumstances.
Additional supports may also include:
- Government-funded or subsidised training in NSW (subject to eligibility)
- Additional assistance for employers and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to support the apprentice in the workplace
Eligibility:
The apprentice or trainee must have a verified disability, injury or health condition. An assessment or appropriate medical evidence may be required. The individual must be connected with an approved provider.
To learn more, visit Australian Apprenticeships Support for Australian Apprentices with disability factsheet 1 July 2025.pdf or speak with our Access2Work team for advice and support.
To learn more, visit JobAccess or speak with our Access2Work team, who can connect you with the right Inclusive Employment provider.
