DVA may provide uniforms and other essential equipment where these are required to enable the person to perform their role. There are slight differences in approach where a client has secured permanent employment, compared to where a client is participating in a work trial. Refer to section 9.9.5 [1] of this library for information about uniforms and similar equipment for clients participating in work trials.
Permanent employment
If a client obtains paid permanent employment as a result of their participation in a vocational rehabilitation plan, DVA may consider funding for:
Where basic essential clothing or equipment is being requested for a person who is about to commence permanent employment, the reasonableness of the request must be taken into consideration as follows:
Where DVA purchases uniforms and/or essential equipment to enable a client to commence paid employment, then these items become the property of the client. If the client leaves their employment for a new industry or a new role which has different uniform or equipment requirements, DVA will not provide payment for these items. This is because, as they have been in paid employment, they now have the financial capacity to cover these costs themselves.
DVA may also provide ergonomic equipment and other workplace aids and appliances that the client requires to be able to safely fulfil the requirements of their role. Further information about workplace aids and appliances can be found in section 10.7.4 [2] of this library.
DVA will not provide payment for the costs of uniforms or other similar equipment associated with starting a new business. This is because these costs are regarded as part of the expected costs of establishing that business.
Links
[1] https://clik.dva.gov.au/rehabilitation-policy-library/9-vocational-rehabilitation/99-work-trials/995-dva-support-during-work-trial
[2] https://clik.dva.gov.au/rehabilitation-policy-library/10-alterations-modifications-aids-appliances-and-motor-vehicle-assistance/107-consideration-specific-aids-and-appliances/1074-ergonomic-equipment-workplace-aids-and-appliances-and-workplace-assessments