How to Talk About Your Support Needs in the Workplace

Starting a new job is exciting, but it can also bring up questions, especially if you’re an NDIS participant with specific support needs. You might be wondering:

• “Do I need to tell my employer I have a disability?”
• “How do I ask for adjustments without feeling like a burden?”
• “What if I don’t know how to explain what I need?”

This blog is here to help. At Newcastle Social Workers, we support people to feel confident about self-advocating in the workplace, including asking for the support they need to do their job well, and safely.

Do I Have to Tell My Employer About My Disability?

You don’t have to tell your employer about your disability; that’s your choice. However, if you need adjustments, support, or flexibility to help you do your job, it’s often a good idea to let them know.

Many employers are willing to help, but they can’t support you if they don’t know what you need.

Some people share this information during the interview stage, while others wait until they’ve started the job. Either option is okay; it depends on what feels right for you.

What Are ‘Reasonable Adjustments’?

Under Australian law, employers must offer reasonable adjustments to help people with disabilities succeed at work. This might include:

• Flexible hours or modified start/finish times
• More breaks or a quieter work area
• Equipment like a sit/stand desk or noise-cancelling headphones
• Support with communication or social expectations
• Training in different formats (e.g. written instructions instead of verbal)
• Extra time to complete tasks or attend appointments

These supports aren’t about giving you “special treatment” — they’re about creating a fair and safe environment where everyone can contribute.

Tips for Talking About Your Support Needs

1. Know your strengths

Start by identifying what you’re good at, what you enjoy, and what you’re confident doing. This gives you a strong foundation for the conversation; you’re not just asking for help, you’re showing how you’ll add value to the team.

2. Be clear about what you need

Think about what will help you succeed in the role. For example:

• “I do better when I have written instructions instead of verbal ones.”
• “I need a 10-minute break every two hours to manage fatigue.”
• “I take medication at lunchtime and need a quiet space.”

It’s okay if you’re not sure how to explain it perfectly; even starting the conversation is a good step.

3. Choose the right person to speak to

This is often your direct manager or the HR team. You can request a private meeting and let them know you’d like to talk about support needs related to your role.

4. Put it in writing if that’s easier

If you feel more comfortable writing things down, that’s completely fine. A short email outlining your needs and offering to chat in person can help break the ice.

5. Bring someone with you (if needed)

You can bring a support person, advocate, or social worker to the conversation if you feel nervous or unsure. They can help explain your needs or take notes.

What If I Face Discrimination or Feel Unheard?

If an employer refuses to offer reasonable adjustments without a valid reason, or if you experience discrimination, you don’t have to face it alone.

You can:

• Talk to a trusted support person or advocate
• Reach out to your social worker for help navigating the situation
• Contact services like JobAccess or the Australian Human Rights Commission

You have rights, and support is available to ensure you’re treated fairly.

How Newcastle Social Workers Can Help

We work with NDIS participants who are navigating employment pathways. If you’re preparing for work, already employed, or unsure how to start these conversations, we can help you:

• Build confidence around self-advocacy
• Prepare for workplace conversations
• Identify reasonable adjustments
• Communicate your needs in a safe, supportive way
• Collaborate with your employer or job provider if needed

We believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive at work — and to be supported in doing so.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your employment goals and help you speak up with confidence in the workplace.