The return-to-work programme is supported by public policy, legislation, standards and other declarations. Knowledge of relevant instruments is essential to meeting reporting and accountability obligations.

Relevant legal and other formal instruments include government legislation, public policy, relevant professional standards and trade union agreements, and international declarations and standards, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) Code of Practice on Managing Disability in the Workplace and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.