Whether you are working casually, part-time, or full-time, the scenario of what, who and when to tell will arise. Below are things to consider and insight from adults with CF.
Should I tell my employer?
This question can make people feel anxious. People with CF who are starting their careers or have established careers have varied responses to this question. There are some who may not need an admission for several years and as a result, will choose not to provide this information to their employer on the basis of privacy.
For others, there are circumstances where admissions are frequent and discussions with employers are required to make sure both parties can establish contingency plans. In some circumstances, there is no choice. Employees have a legal obligation to reveal a health condition to their employer for the purpose of safety and their ability to undertake the tasks required on the job.
This is a highly personal and situational decision that may vary depending on the type of work you are applying for (part-time, casual or full-time). Many of our members have provided positive feedback on how their potential and current employers have supported them. One thing to remember is that most employees, whether they have CF or not, pose different requests to employers due to a variety of personal circumstances. This is very common and you won’t be alone in raising such questions or concerns.
It is recommended that you speak to your CF Clinic team about best practice in this area and how they can support you with any documentation or advice if it is required.
Advantages of disclosing CF include that:
- you start with a level of trust between you and your new employer
- your employer may be more open to requests for time off
- if CF impacts your work, it will not be seen as poor performance
- your colleagues will be more understanding of your time off
- your employer may be more open to flexible working arrangements
- it educates more people about CF.
Disadvantages of disclosing CF include that:
- you may potentially not be offered the job
- you may be overlooked for promotion or limited in opportunities due to health concerns
- your employer may not show empathy or understanding
- you may feel stigmatised by colleagues.
Comments from members about telling employers
“I’ve been very lucky. My employers have always been incredibly supportive.”
“It is nerve-wracking telling an employer and it can cause concern at the start, but I prove myself in other ways. I am incredibly reliable and dedicated to my job.”
“I have a wonderful manager who works with me. If I’m feeling good, I work more, then I pull back when I’m having bad days. She knows I always get things done.”
“I work in healthcare, so my employers have always been understanding. It hasn’t been an issue.”
“When my health started to change, I spoke to my employer and moved roles within the company to something less demanding on my body.”
“I was self-conscious when I started working, but now that I’m older, I am who I am. I’m very open about my CF and tell people how it is.”
“I took on a career where I knew I could work for myself. I’ve always been my own boss, but this poses different challenges, such as saying no to work when you’re not feeling great.”
“I told my employer after I was offered the job. They had concerns, but once I started, we worked together on what would be best for both parties. We started with open communication and I worked with them constructively on any issues regarding my health.”
“Some managers haven’t been understanding, but that’s life. Some are great and others aren’t.”
When and how to tell my employer
It is acceptable to disclose health conditions once you have been offered the position, or not at all if your health does not impact your ability to do the job. 
It does not need to be disclosed at interview stage, although you may choose to do so then.
Whenever you decide to talk to your employer, let them know about how you manage CF on a daily basis, how or if it will impact your day-to-day role, and whether you want this information shared with colleagues or not.
You can download our CFCC – Employer information fact sheet or have them access the e-Learning module to understand CF and the workplace.
Insight from members
Dan from Vic,
“After a lot of trial and error, I learned to listen to my body above all else.
Like most people with a chronic illness, I exhaust allocated sick leave quickly, because people with CF are vulnerable to colds and viruses, and need the occasional mental health day too. That’s on top of all of the extras that CF throws at us.
My general experience has been that it’s important to be open with your teachers, lecturers, bosses and colleagues, and gradually word them up about what adjustments you’ve needed to make to manage your CF. Flexibility in the workplace is great, but should be expected.
While my employers and university have so far been accommodating, the steepest learning curve for me has been recognising when to slow down, and not succumb to workplace or societal pressure to work more than I should.
Taking some time to spend outside of work and treatments is important. You feel more in control of things when you’re allowing yourself time to rest. Being willing to be flexible with yourself (if you can) is more important in the long run.”
Murray from Vic,
I got the job on my own merits. They didn’t need to know. Once I got the job, I focused on showing them my work ethic, that I’m trustworthy, capable, and reliable. Once I felt like I gained that trust and respect, then I told my manager.
I said, “You would have noticed I cough a lot, the reason why is I have CF.” I gave them a brief overview and outlined that it shouldn’t impact my day-to-day. “However, there are days where the condition can be worse. I do have to go into hospital for treatment occasionally, but I’ll let you know when this happens.”
When you get the job
Once you have settled in at work, it is recommended that you establish a contingency plan with your employer about possible future absences required for clinics or admissions. Work with your employer on a plan that suits both parties.
When your health starts impacting work
Advances in CF have made the lives of those affected much easier, enabling most people to undertake various types of work. However, CF can still impact a person’s ability to do certain jobs. If your health is becoming unstable to the point where you are unable to manage your current responsibilities, then there are other factors to consider. These decisions are personal and should be made with your family and friends.
The decision to reduce your workload or apply for the Disability Support Pension is challenging. If this is required to ensure financial stability and you are eligible for the Disability Support Pension, the amount of hours you work, income and assets you have are taken into consideration.
“My employer was very supportive around my transplant. They could tell I was becoming unwell and were aware of my capabilities. I still wanted to fulfil my role, so I reduced my hours and tasks when I became unwell. They were very supportive when I had my transplant.”
Adult with CF
What are my legal rights?
No matter what impact your health is having on your day-to-day life, it is valuable to know your rights.
Federal laws protect employees against discrimination and harassment on the basis of gender, disability, religion, race, colour, age or marital status. You cannot be denied employment based on your health, unless it directly impacts your ability to undertake the tasks required for the job.
If you require support or advice, call your state organisation’s social worker or services team for assistance.
For more information on Privacy
Government support for studying and working
Youth Allowance (16 years plus)
Can assist if you are a young person who is studying, undertaking training or an Australian apprenticeship, looking for work, or if you are sick.
Financial help if you’re 25 or older and studying or an Australian Apprentice.
Provides financial help if you’re between 22 and Age Pension age and looking for work. It is also for when you are sick or injured and can’t do your usual work or study for a short time.
Concession and Health Care Cards
Australian Government Services
Payments for people living with illness, injury of disability
