Every year, we help thousands of people living with disability, injury or health condition find meaningful work.

We can help you look for:

• Work that reflects your interests and goals
• Work that matches your abilities and skills
• Work that helps you get what you want out of life

Our promise to you

We make sure that signing up with us isn’t a job in itself, and we make things as easy as possible for you throughout your job search journey.

We have great flexibility in how we work together, including the ability to meet virtually, to make your job hunt as simple as possible.

We promise to work with you to take into account your individual situation, listen to you, help you focus on your needs and strengths and set employment goals that are best for you.

DES is a practical, friendly and free service. Read about the clients who’ve joined us and successfully found work here.

Brad,
DES Job Coach

Redundancy at any stage can be harrowing and for 64-year-old Jeni, after 10 years with the same employer, it was completely devastating. The talented cook from regional Victoria was suddenly let go in 2017, having a dire effect on her mental wellbeing and slowly eroding her self-esteem. She then suffered a debilitating fall in 2019 and broke her hip. As a result, she was on strong pain killers for more than six months, while also taking medication for a heart complication, all of which added to her anxiety and lack of confidence.

When Jeni was referred to the atWork Australia Shepparton office, she still required a walking stick for mobility. She was introduced to Job Coach, Brad who immediately knew their first steps would be to grow her self-confidence.

Brad says, “Jeni told me that she gets nervous at the thought of approaching employers and doing paid employment after three years out of work. She also felt her age would impact her options but I assured her there are no barriers to employment.”

Firstly, they worked through what Jeni felt she could do, and what she felt would be beyond her capabilities. They talked both short and long-term goals and discussed how important exercise was for the muscles supporting her hip, and also Jeni’s mental health.

Brad’s experience as a Job Coach has given him plenty of employment contacts and having worked with Jeni on building her confidence, felt she was ready for her next step. He approached Sabac on High, a local retailer who is always open to partnering with atWork Australia.

Jeni was overwhelmed when she heard she had the position with Sabac on High and is incredibly grateful to Brad and the atWork Australia team.

• I live with a disability, injury or health condition (including mental health has to make condition). This can include a medical condition that affects the type of work you do or how long you can do it
• I’m aged between 14 years old and the Age Pension qualifying age
• I’m at or above the minimum working age (check the laws in your state)
• I’m an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, or hold a Temporary Protection Visa or a Safe Haven Enterprise Visa
• I’m not studying full time (unless I’m an eligible school leaver)
• I’m able to work at least eight hours per week (with support if I need it)
• I’m not currently working at or above my assessed employment capacity