Importance of Employment for NDIS Participants
What if the right job could lead you to an independent and fulfilling life? For NDIS participants, it really is!
Some of us may not know but employment can totally change the lives of NDIS participants because it gives them independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose. But finding the right job with the proper support can also be challenging. In fact, studies show that employment rates for people with disabilities are lower compared to the general population, with only 44% of people with disabilities employed compared to 75% without disabilities. That’s why the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers employment support to help participants secure jobs that fit their abilities and goals.
Overview of Employment Support Services
NDIS Employment Support helps people with disabilities find and maintain meaningful jobs. Their providers work really closely with participants to customise services to their needs, including help with job searching, skill-building programs, and even on-the-job support. Their goal is to make the job-seeking process easier and ensure participants have the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Promisingly, over 23,000 NDIS participants benefited from Employment Support Services in 2023.
Types of Employment Support
Job Search Assistance
Finding the right job can be tough, but NDIS Employment Support Providers make it easier. They assist participants with writing their resumes, searching for job openings, and practising for interviews. This guidance increases their chances of landing a job that suits their skills and preferences.
On-the-job Support
Once participants start working, NDIS Employment Support doesn’t end. Providers offer on-the-job assistance to ensure that participants adjust to their new roles smoothly. Support workers are always there to support in adjusting to the workplace environment whether it’s help with learning tasks or workplace communication.
Skill Development and Training
It’s also reassuring that NDIS helps participants build the skills they need to excel in their jobs. They conduct skill development training that gives participants the skills they need to expand their job opportunities and potentially succeed in the workplace.
How to Access Employment Support
Including Employment Goals in Your NDIS Plan
To receive employment support, NDIS participants need to include employment goals in their NDIS plan. This could be about finding a new job, developing work-related skills, or even adjusting to a current job.
Finding Suitable Employment Services
Once their employment goals are set, participants can choose from different NDIS Employment Support Providers who offer job search help, skill development, or on-the-job assistance, depending on their needs.
Working with Your Support Coordinator
A support coordinator helps participants connect with different employment services available. They guide them through the process to ensure they are matched with the right services to achieve their employment goals.
Success Stories
Real-life Example of Participants Finding Employment Through NDIS
Many NDIS participants have already found meaningful jobs thanks to these services. For example, Emma, in her 30s, has been an admin assistant at NTT Ltd for over six years. With support from her family and a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider, she secured the job despite her intellectual disability. Her DES provider also helped with training, setting up her hours, and adjusting her workplace. Now, Emma has become more independent at work and has built relationships with colleagues.
Similarly, Cailan, in her mid-20s, works as an admin assistant at a sports broadcaster. She initially faced challenges in securing paid work but later found a job through a DES provider after work trials and years of experience. Starting with just four hours a week, she wanted to work more. While her DES provider couldn’t expand her role, Cailan used NDIS funding to hire a job coach, eventually increasing her hours to nine per week during the AFL season.
Both Emma and Cailan’s stories show how NDIS Employment Support helps participants find jobs and ensures they have the tools and confidence to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
NDIS provides many supports to help participants find and keep their jobs, which includes help with job searches, learning new skills, and getting support at work (like a job coach or on-the-job assistance). You can even get support to start a business if that’s your goal!
You should bring up your employment goals during your planning meeting by clearly explaining what you want to achieve, like finding a new job, improving your skills, or getting support at work. It’s also helpful if you have a list of your goals, any certifications, or relevant work experience to show the planner. These goals will be added to your plan once agreed, and the right support will be provided to you.
Yes! NDIS can help if you want to start or grow your own small business. They can provide support for managing the business, learning new skills, or hiring staff. This is called a microenterprise and is part of the customised support NDIS offers.
If you need long-term help at work, NDIS can provide ongoing support. This can include job coaches, help with learning new tasks, or support workers who assist you regularly. These supports are customised based on your job and what you need to succeed.
NDIS Respite/STA Organiser & Planner in Victoria
I hold a Master’s degree from the University of Melbourne and have dedicated my career to supporting NDIS participants. With extensive experience in providing Respite and Short-Term Accommodation services, this journey has been both personally and professionally enriching. It has allowed me to meet remarkable individuals within the NDIS community and continuously learn and grow alongside them.