Having a job is about so much more than just a paycheck. It’s about feeling valued, building new skills, connecting with your community, and gaining a sense of independence. For many people with a disability, securing and maintaining employment can come with unique challenges. But here’s the good news: the NDIS is designed to be a powerful tool for supporting your employment goals.

The journey to finding a job that is right for you can be a positive and empowering one. This guide will walk you through how the NDIS and employment work together to help you not just find a job, but thrive in it.

The First Step: Identifying Your Goals

Before you even begin your job search, the NDIS can help you get clear on what you want to do. Your NDIS plan meeting is the perfect opportunity to discuss your career aspirations, whether you’re looking for your first job or a new one.

• Self-Discovery: A key part of the NDIS is exploring your interests, strengths, and skills. Your plan can fund supports that help you identify what kind of work you would enjoy and be good at. This might include vocational assessments or working with a career counsellor.
• Building Foundational Skills: If you need to build some basic skills before starting a job search—like time management, using public transport, or communication—the NDIS can provide funding for supports that help you develop these essential life and work skills.

It’s all about laying the groundwork so you can build a career you’re passionate about.

Funding for Your Job Search

Once you have a clear idea of your goals, the NDIS can provide practical support to help you get job-ready. The NDIS has a specific support category called “Finding and Keeping a Job,” which is designed to help participants with the employment process.

• Resume and Application Assistance: Your plan can fund a service to help you write a compelling resume and cover letter that highlights your abilities and experience.
• Interview Preparation: Get expert coaching to practice your interview skills and build your confidence. This support can help you prepare for common questions and present yourself in the best possible light.
• Connecting with Employers: A support provider can help you network with potential employers who are committed to inclusive hiring practices and can assist you in finding work experience opportunities.

This funding is designed to break down the practical barriers that often stand between a person and their next job.

Support on the Job: Making Work Sustainable

Finding a job is a huge accomplishment, but the support doesn’t stop there. The NDIS understands that to truly succeed, you need ongoing support in the workplace. This is where the NDIS becomes a valuable partner for both you and your employer.

• Disability Employment Services (DES): While DES is a government program separate from the NDIS, the two often work together. The NDIS can provide more intensive, long-term support for those who need it, such as on-the-job support from a specialist provider.
• Workplace Accommodations: The NDIS can fund supports that help you do your job effectively. This could be anything from assistive technology, such as specialised software or ergonomic equipment, to on-the-job support from a support worker who helps you with specific tasks.
• Training and Education: The NDIS can fund training for an employer or co-workers to help them understand your support needs. This creates a more inclusive and supportive work environment for everyone.

The Role of a Support Coordinator

Navigating the world of employment and the NDIS can be complex. That’s where a Support Coordinator can be your greatest asset.

A Support Coordinator’s job is to help you understand and implement your NDIS plan. When it comes to employment, they can:

• Connect you with Providers: They have a network of employment-focused NDIS providers and can help you find one that specialises in your type of disability or career field.
• Manage Your Funding: They can help you understand how to use your “Finding and Keeping a Job” and other Capacity Building funds effectively to support your employment journey.
• Coordinate with Other Services: They act as a bridge between the NDIS, DES, and any other services you use to ensure everyone is working towards the same goal.

Having a Support Coordinator by your side ensures you’re making the most of your NDIS plan and not missing out on any opportunities.

A Brighter Future Through Employment

Ultimately, the goal of NDIS and employment supports is to help you achieve your full potential. Employment is not just about income; it’s about dignity, purpose, and community participation.

By using your NDIS plan to its fullest, you are taking control of your future and opening doors to new experiences and relationships. A job can provide a sense of routine, a place to learn and grow, and the chance to contribute your unique skills to the world. It’s a powerful step towards a more independent and fulfilling life.

Your journey is unique, and the NDIS is there to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the next step towards employment, don’t hesitate to discuss your goals with your NDIS planner or a professional bookkeeper who understands how to get the most out of your NDIS plan. The right support can make all the difference.

At Heron Group Consultants, our determination is to continue helping people negotiate their activities in the fast-evolving landscape of NDIS. This is to ensure they get whatever they had expected continued support.