EAF: How to get funding for ADHD coaching
Access Up to $1,682 in EAF Funding for ADHD Coaching
What is the EAF?
If you’re employed and have been diagnosed with ADHD, you might be eligible for government funding to access workplace coaching. The Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) can cover up to $1,682.77 worth of ADHD coaching to help you navigate work challenges like time management, organisation, overwhelm, and burnout.
This funding is available to help employees and self-employed workers access the support they need to thrive at work. ADHD coaching falls under “Specialist Mental Health Support” in the EAF framework.
To be eligible for the EAF, you need to meet a few conditions.
1. Work requirements
You must be:
- Currently working at least 8 hours per week in a role expected to last 13 weeks or longer, or
- About to start a job that meets these criteria, or
- Self-employed, working at least 8 hours per week for the last 13 weeks, and earning at least the national minimum wage per hour
2. Application requirements
You need to have an ongoing condition or neurotype difference that has lasted (or is likely to last) for at least two years and impacts how you work. You’ll need documentation to support this. This could be a GP letter, assessment report, or medical certificate.
3. Residency requirements
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa (such as a Protection Visa or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa).
ADHD coaching eligibility
Current JobAccess guidelines allow EAF-funded coaching for ADHDers, as well as those with learning differences such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. If you have an autism assessment (without ADHD), or learning differences, the EAF currently limits this category of funding to psychologists or occupational therapists, rather than ADHD coaches.
If you have a combined neurotype (autistic and ADHD), you may still be eligible for coaching support. The specifics depend on how your application is assessed.
This is a JobAccess policy. If you’re not sure how it applies to your situation, get in touch and we can talk it through before you apply. You can also check the guidelines here, call JobAccess directly on 1800 464 800 for advice.
What the funding covers
The EAF provides up to $1,682.77 (including GST) over a 12-month period from your approval date. This isn’t tied to the calendar year, it starts when you’re approved.
You can use this funding for one-to-one coaching sessions focused on workplace challenges. This might include building systems for task initiation, managing time blindness, reducing burnout, navigating workplace relationships, or developing strategies that work with your ADHD brain.
Important note about timing
You can’t claim for any services delivered before your approval date. This means prior to your application being fully approved by JobAccess the EAF funding will not apply, and can’t be applied retroactively when it is approved.
How reimbursement works
The EAF operates on a reimbursement basis. You’ll pay for sessions upfront, then submit invoices to JobAccess for reimbursement after you’ve paid.
How it works
JobAccess typically takes up to 10 working days to assess your application once it’s submitted.
Consult the JobAccess website for specific details, but generally, here’s what you’ll need to do to apply:
- Set up your account
Register with JobAccess online through JobAccess Secure and link your MyGov ID. You can download step-by-step instructions from the JobAccess website. - Prepare your information
You’ll need details about your employer, including a contract of employment or a written offer of employment, a job description, a list of workplace barriers and how support will help, timesheets, and an earnings summary. If you’re self-employed, you may also need to provide your Australian Business Number (ABN), evidence of working hours, evidence of income and or contracts with clients. - Submit your application
Apply under “Specialist Mental Health Support” and upload your documentation. This includes confirmation of your ADHD assessment and proof of residency. - Talk to your employer
For employees, JobAccess will usually need to contact your employer to verify the information in your application. Your employer will need to complete a Proof of Employment form. If you haven’t disclosed your ADHD at work and you’re not comfortable doing so, you can call JobAccess on 1800 464 800 to discuss your situation. They’re experienced in working with people who haven’t disclosed and can talk through your options. - Complete the final paperwork
Once your application is accepted, JobAccess will send you a form to pass on to us. We’ll add details about your specific workplace challenges and how coaching will support you. - Wait for approval
You’ll submit the completed form back to JobAccess and wait for final approval. Remember, you can’t claim sessions that happen before your approval date. - After approval
Once approved, you’ll pay for coaching sessions upfront and submit invoices to JobAccess for reimbursement.
You can learn more about the EAF application process on the JobAccess website, including FAQs on the process.
Feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork?
We get it. Applying for funding when you have ADHD can feel particularly ironic. The executive function required to access support for executive function challenges is not lost on us.
If the process feels like too much, you can nominate someone you trust to apply on your behalf. This could be a support worker, family member or friend. JobAccess has information about applying as a nominee on their website.
You can also contact a JobAccess Adviser on 1800 464 800 for free support with the application process. They’re there to help.
Worried about disclosing at work?
You’re not alone in feeling nervous about this. Many people haven’t told their employer about their ADHD and aren’t ready to.
JobAccess is experienced in working with people who haven’t disclosed. If this is your situation, call them on 1800 464 800 to discuss your options. They can talk you through alternatives and support you through the process.
Ready to explore this option?
If you think this funding might be right for you, we’re here to help. Get in touch to discuss your workplace challenges and how coaching could support you. We can also answer questions about the EAF process and what to expect.
Once your EAF application is approved, we’ll work together to develop practical strategies that fit your brain and your work context.