The Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) is a government initiative that helps employees and self-employed individuals with disabilities, including ADHD, by funding workplace modifications and support services. One such support service is ADHD coaching, which falls under Specialist Mental Health Support and can provide $1,642.29 inc GST for a 12-month period (as of January 23, 2025).
Who Can Apply For ADHD Coaching Through the EAF?
You may be eligible for funding if you:
– Have a diagnosis of ADHD (or another relevant disability/mental health condition).
– Experience work-related challenges due to your ADHD.
– Are employed for at least 8 hours per week (including self-employment).
– Are an Australian resident.
– Have supporting documentation (e.g., a GP letter, diagnosis report, or medical certificate).
Your employer will need to verify your employment but does not need to know your diagnosis unless you choose to disclose it. If you prefer, at work you can refer to your coaching as Time Management Coaching or Productivity Coaching instead.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Register and Apply Online
1. Create a new registration on the JobAccess website and link your MyGov ID.
2. Make a new application under Specialist Mental Health Support (funding cap: $1,642.29 inc GST).
3. Upload supporting documents:
- Diagnosis confirmation (GP letter, medical certificate, or specialist report).
- Residency status (if applicable).
If you’re self-employed you’ll also need to provide:
- Job description.
- List of ADHD-related workplace barriers and solutions.
- Summary of timesheets for the past 13 weeks.
- Summary of earnings (BAS, tax statement, or invoices).
Step 2: Employer Verification
- Your employer will need to complete a Proof of Employment form.
- If you are uncomfortable speaking to your employer about your application, call **EAF on 1800 464 800** to request an exemption.
Step 3: Application Review
- The EAF team will assess your application, which typically takes up to 10 working days.
Step 4: Approval and Payment
- Once approved, you will receive a form to send to your ADHD coach.
- Your coach will complete details on how the coaching will help address workplace challenges.
- You return the form to EAF and wait for final approval.
- Your coach will invoice you for the sessions.
- You will be reimbursed by JobAccess after payment is made.
The entire process typically takes about two weeks from start to approval.
Applying as a Nominee
If you are a friend, relative, or advocate applying for the EAF on behalf of someone with a disability, you will need to:
- Obtain written permission from the individual.
- Clearly explain the EAF process and terms to the person and their employer.
- Keep them updated on the progress of the application.
- Complete the Nominee tab in the online EAF application.
This process allows someone who may struggle with executive functioning tasks to still access essential support without navigating the system alone.
Feeling Overwhelmed?
- Remember, you can nominate someone to apply on your behalf.
- Contact us if you need help.
- EAF staff are helpful and understanding – call 1800 464 800 for assistance.
Get Started Today!
Visit the Employment Assistance Fund website to begin your application, or call 1800 464 800 for more guidance. We find that talking to the EAF staff is a lot easier than trying to navigate their website!
If you’re interested in ADHD coaching through the EAF, feel free to reach out to Be for support throughout the application process!
