Australia Post has launched a tool that enables team members with disabilities to share their details and adjustment requirements in their own words, removing the need for them to explain their circumstances every time they change role or encounter a new manager within the organization.
The Workplace Adjustment Passport, which is integrated with Australia Post’s existing employee systems, is intended to build on the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and support the more than 2,000 team members who identify as having a disability.
Susan Davies, executive general manager of people and culture at Australia Post, said, “I am proud to introduce the passport together with updated guidelines, to ensure all team members have the right support and access to meaningful work. It’s hugely important to set our team members up for success, wherever they work in our business. This passport allows us to manage workplace adjustments with dignity and respect, ensuring people with disabilities feel seen, heard and valued. We want all our team members to be engaged at work and feel confident to explore future opportunities with us.”
Nancy Bezerra, a postal delivery officer (PDO) at Coburg Post Office, said, “My workplace adjustment plan helped me return to work after my speech was impacted by treatment for cancer, and I plan to return to my original role as a postal services officer (PSO). My manager has been so supportive and provided workplace adjustments so I can have refresher training and return to doing what I love, which is being a PSO. I worked as a PSO for two years and I acquired a lot of knowledge, so it’s important to me that I return to my original role and I’m happy to be working toward that. I love serving customers and I love the environment here at Coburg Post Office.”
Michael Brogden, postal manager at Coburg Post Office, said, “Nancy has been an incredibly valuable team member and it is important to support team members with disability. Sometimes that means making changes at work so they can do their job effectively, and most workplace adjustments don’t cost anything. You just have to listen to what they’re saying and focus on the solutions, not the barriers.”
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