If you’re having trouble finding work or holding down a job, support is available. There are a number of government-funded programs in Australia to help people like you find meaningful work and get the support you need to thrive in the workplace.
Here are 5 employment services you could be eligible for.
1. Workforce Australia
Workforce Australia is the government’s mainstream employment service for Australians who are looking for work. You can access information, search for jobs and manage your Centrelink obligations on the Workforce Australia website.
If you need more tailored support, a Workforce Australia employment services provider in your local area can work one-on-one with you to find a job. Providers can also help you access specialist programs and funding that you might be eligible for.
2. Disability Employment Services
Disability Employment Services helps people living with an injury, illness or disability find and keep a job. To be eligible, you must be receiving an income support payment or the disability support pension, be an NDIS participant or be an eligible school leaver.
Disability Employment Services providers can help you with career advice and planning, writing your resume and preparing for interviews. They can also help you access additional services such as mental health services or funding for work-related costs.
If you are currently working in Sydney but finding it hard to cope, you can access WorkAssist support through a Disability Employment Services Sydney provider. This involves helping you access workplace accommodations, special equipment or other supports so you can do your job.
Your employment services provider will work with you and your employer to find solutions that help you stay in work. Your employer may be eligible for funding for accommodations through the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF).
3. Community Development Program
The Community Development Program supports people living in remote areas to find work, build their skills and contribute to their community. Through the program, participants can access a range of flexible activities to gain workplace experience while contributing to their community in a positive way. Activities may include formal training to gain qualifications as well as foundational skills training such as language, numeracy and driving.
The Community Development Program operates in over 1000 communities around Australia and is delivered by local providers in each location. As a participant, you’ll get one-on-one support to overcome the barriers unique to your situation and find meaningful work opportunities that are right for you.
4. ParentsNext
The ParentsNext program supports parents of young children who are looking to get into employment or study when their child starts school. You can access ParentsNext through a referral from Centrelink or by volunteering for the program if you live in a ParentsNext Intensive Stream location.
If you’re eligible, you’ll get one-on-one support from a ParentsNext provider in your area. They’ll help you set study and work goals, prepare for your next steps and access relevant services in the local community. You may be required to participate in the program and report your income fortnightly if you are receiving the Parenting Payment.
5. Transition To Work
Transition to Work supports young people aged 15-24 years old transition into work or study, including apprenticeships and traineeships. Participants get tailored, one-on-one support from a local provider in their area.
Providers can help with a range of pre-employment services such as career planning, skills training, work experience and finding local job opportunities. They can also help participants access additional services such as housing assistance and mental health services.
6. Career Transition Assistance
Career Transition Assistance is a program for Australians 45 years and older who are currently participants of Workforce Australia or Disability Employment Services. The program is designed to build your confidence and practical skills to help you be more competitive in the local labour market.
Career Transition Assistance can help you identify your skills and job types that would be a good fit for you. The program can also build your confidence in searching for jobs online, applying for jobs and tailoring your resume. Plus, you’ll get support on how to use technology such as smartphones, apps, tablets and desktop computers during your job search.
7. Self-Employment Assistance
Self-Employment Assistance can help you if you have a business idea or an existing small business. You can access a range of flexible services through the program, depending on your goals and needs. For example, you can get help developing a business plan, access free accredited small business training and receive professional business coaching and advice.
Self-Employment Assistance is delivered in over 50 locations around Australia by a network of Self-Employment Assistance providers. To participate you must be 15 years old or over and not currently working or studying more than 25 hours a week. You may have to meet more specific eligibility criteria to access particular services.
Your employment journey
Whether you’re transitioning from school to work, starting a new career path or looking for jobs for people with disability, support is out there to help you reach your goals. The government-funded services listed above are free for eligible participants. Find out more about accessing relevant employment services by connecting with a provider in your area or contacting the Department of Education, Skills and Employment.
