Suffering a disability – either temporarily or permanently – doesn’t have the end of your working life. Depending on the extent or nature of the disability, many disabled people are gainfully employed in the Australian workforce and living fulfilling lives. Although there may be challenges, it’s definitely far from impossible to find jobs and get back into the workforce.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, some 18% of all Australians suffer from some form of disability, whether it be a physical challenge or mental disability, such as mental illness. Out of that 18%, a fair number are actively employed. Often it’s about knowledge, being aware of the support and facilities available to help disabled individuals get back to work.
What’s important to know is that you’re not alone if you’re suffering from a disability but really desire to find a job. Many people have been in a similar position and gained employment with the right help, encouragement and guidance.
Employment Services for the Disabled
If you search government websites you’ll discover that there are a number of different disability employment services available. One really good option that’s worth looking into is to team up with a Jobactive provider.
Jobactive providers help unemployed people to find work, whether able-bodied or someone with a disability. Providers often work in conjunction with Centrelink and play a pivotal role in preparing people for work, as well as having a hands-on approach to helping you land a job. Courses to improve your skills are another way these networks help people become job-ready and more attractive to employers.
Not only do people with disabilities receive practical assistance in gaining employment, but you’ll also receive support through group health programs and assessments.
Two assessments that can be undertaken through a Jobactive provider are:
- Job Capacity Assessment (JCA)
- Employment Services Assessment
These assessments work out your ability to work and how many hours per week you would be capable of working.
With regards to the Jobactive provider helping you get a part-time or full-time job, they will act as the go-between with you and the employer, explaining to the potential employer what’s required for you to be able to work in their business, as well as what will be required from you.
What Are Disability Employment Services?
Also abbreviated to DES, Disability Employment Services enables disabled people to access both the Employment Support Service and Disability Management Service. This entire scheme is focused on helping people with disabilities to get a job.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme Explained
NDIS not only provides much-needed support for any Australian with a disability, but the scheme also provides support for carers and family members too. It’s a long-term support scheme to enable people with more serious disabilities to achieve their goals and aspirations. The idea is to help individuals find employment and manage their disability whilst maintaining a job.
There is even a special version of NDIS designed for school leavers who have a disability, so they can confidently enter the workforce.
Wage Subsidies
Under the federal government’s Disability Employment Services scheme, people with disabilities can have their wages subsidised by the government to entice employers to give them a go, with less financial risk on the employer’s part. This not only opens up job opportunities, but also leads to long-term employment.
There is also another scheme known as the Supported Wage System. Under this system, the disabled employee is not paid a set salary, but rather compensated on a productivity system. This way, if the employee takes a little longer to perform certain tasks, they are paid for their productivity and output rather than time.
This is great news as it opens doors for jobs, as once again there is less risk for the employer.
Other Assistance for Disabled Job Seekers
Disabled Job Seekers are eligible for JobSeeker payment, which is the same fortnightly payment that regular unemployed people receive. While you’re out of work, or are suffering from an illness or disability, the government will financially support you until you find employment. JobSeeker can also be claimed while you are studying.
There is also mobility allowance, which provides further financial assistance to enable disabled people to travel to work and back on public transport.
