Finding a career-ready placement can be stressful for most students, and those with disabilities or medical conditions often face additional challenges. While a Reasonable Adjustment Plan (RAP) may help manage your studies at the University, you might require different types of support in the workplace.

Finding a career-ready placement

The process for finding a placement varies by program. Some programs, such as nursing, social work, or education, may offer you a pre-arranged placement or allow you to preference available options. For other programs, you may need to find your own placement. In each scenario, developing the ability to connect with potential employers and navigate conversations about your disability and work accommodations is essential.

If you need to find your own placement, here are some tips to help you through the process:

• Allow yourself plenty of time to secure a placement. Employers will have different processes in place, and some may take longer than others to get back to you.
• Utilise the support and resources available through the Careers Service. They can assist you with strategies for sourcing a placement, writing applications and more.
• Attend Expos and Industry Events to speak directly with employers and learn about potential placement opportunities. The Careers Service can help you navigate these events, enabling you to make positive and strategic connections.

In some cases, you may be able to opt for a group project or research-based placement instead of a workplace placement. To find out if this option is available to you, contact your Course Coordinator or Professional Experience Placement Support Coordinator for advice.

Disclosure

It's important to consider whether disclosing your disability is in your best interest. Potential placement hosts may have policies in place to support students and staff with disability. If you choose to disclose, select the method and timing that feels most comfortable for you. Remember, disclosing your disability is a personal choice, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

For more information about disclosure, organise an appointment with the Careers Service. Your Course Coordinator can also help you approach disclosure with placement hosts.

Workplace adjustment

If you have a Reasonable Adjustment Plan (RAP) with the University, it will outline the support you need to succeed in your studies. This may include extra time for exams, a scribe, assistive devices and technology, and support from an AccessAbility Advisor.

The support you need in the workplace can vary significantly, and it can be challenging to anticipate exactly what you'll require to be successful. Common workplace adjustment requests include written instructions for tasks and projects, clear deadlines, a workspace with low sensory inputs, flexible hours and work modes (including work-from-home options), and a workplace mentor.

For guidance, chat with the Careers Service and contact your AccessAbility Advisor. Your Course Coordinator can also advocate on your behalf to the placement host.

University support services

AccessAbility: Make sure you register with AccessAbility to receive support and guidance navigating your studies. They can also refer you to other University support services, such as Counselling and Academic Learning Support.

The Careers Service: Schedule an appointment to discuss the support you need for finding and applying for career-ready placements. They can also help you manage disclosure and workplace adjustments for your placement.

There are a range of additional support services available to help you through your placement experience. To learn more, visit Support.

Additional support

Australian Disability Network (ADN) provides comprehensive information and advice on disclosure and reasonable workplace adjustment. Check the Stepping Into Internship Program and the PACE Mentor Program specifically for students with disability or medical condition.

Australian Disability Clearing House on Education and Training (ADCET) provides comprehensive information and advice on disclosure and reasonable workplace adjustment.