Hot Tip Tuesday #39

"Supporting and Promoting Neurodiversity in the Workplace"

Everyone has strengths, and every job seeker bring unique talents that can shine in the right environment. If you identify as neurodivergent (for example, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other ways your brain works differently), there are ways to make your job search and work life more supportive and effective.

What You Can Do Before & During the Job Hunt

• Know your rights & what you can ask for
  In Tasmania, employers are required by law to make reasonable adjustmentsto ensure you are not disadvantaged when applying for or doing a job. You don’t always have to disclose your diagnosis, but if you do, you can request supports like conduct-of-interview modifications, assistive technology, or extra time.

• Communicate what works for you
  Think ahead about what makes you work best. Do you need quieter spaces, fewer distractions, flexibility in how tasks are explained, or written instructions rather than verbal? Sharing preferences clearly and with confidence gives employers the chance to help you perform at your best.

• Spot inclusive workplaces
  Look for job adverts or employer websites that mention disability inclusion, neurodiversity, flexible working, or adjustments. Also check resources from Tasmanian State Service, JobAccess and other bodies that provide guidance for employers to support neurodivergent employees.

What Adjustments & Strategies Can Look Like

Reasonable adjustments can take many forms, depending on what helps you perform at your best. For some people, sensory-friendly changes such as using a quiet interview room, reducing background noise, or allowing headphones can make a big difference. Others may benefit from flexible interview formats, like receiving written questions in advance, having extra time, or doing a short practice run to reduce anxiety. Clear and consistent communication is also valuable — providing written notes of key tasks or checking in regularly about what’s working well can help everyone stay aligned. And for day-to-day work, assistive tools and thoughtful environments, such as specialised software, ergonomic setups, or better lighting and seating, can ensure accessibility and comfort.

Local Supports & Resources

There are several services and programs you can access for free or at low cost to help you with disability or neurodivergence:

• Workplace support & adjustments (Tasmanian State Service) – Info on applying, what adjustments might be made, legal protections, and how to get help using the Employment Assistance Fund.

• JobAccess – National free service for advice, support, and funding to help employers and employees work together, including guides for supporting neurodivergent workers.

• Beyond Inclusion – Workshops and training for both individuals and businesses that are designed by people with lived experience of neurodivergence.

• Arts Tasmania – Building an Artistically Inclusive Future – Accessibility resources, training, inclusive arts practice for artists and arts orgs.

Why It Matters

Demand for diverse thinking is growing. Neurodivergent employees often offer innovation, creativity, new perspectives and problem-solving advantages. But barriers like unclear expectations, sensory overload, or rigid systems can stop those strengths from being seen. By asking for and using adjustments, you help bridge that gap — for yourself and others.

Example You Might Use in an Interview

“During my previous role, I found that quiet environments helped me focus best. For interviews, I’d appreciate the chance to have questions in writing ahead of time or receive information in both verbal and written formats. These supports let me show my best work.”

You deserve to be in a workplace where your strengths are seen, valued, and supported. The Jobs Hub team is here to help you identify what adjustments might help, practice how to ask for them, and connect you with inclusive employers. Give us a call on 1300 084 307, email us at jobshub@gcc.tas.gov.au or feel free to come in and have a chat to the team in-person.