Disability Confidence

There are already many people with disability successfully employed in the Australian workforce, and more than one third are employed in professional, managerial and administrator roles. People with disability bring high potential and a diverse range of skills and abilities to the marketplace and work in a wide range of occupations and industries.

Contrary to common misconceptions, many people with disability have completed tertiary education, or attained vocational or other professional qualifications.

“The number of students with disability enrolling in Vocational Education and Training (VET) has almost doubled in less than 10 years”, Dr Mark Bagshaw, Co-Chair, National VET Disability Advisory Taskforce.

Employing people with disability is likely to attract new skills and bring new and valuable perspectives to your organisation. Not only will this increase talent in your business but by accommodating people with disability you are gaining loyal and committed employees who will support you in achieving your business objectives.

The benefits of employing people with disability are immediate and measurable. An Australian Government review of research found that workers with disability are no more likely to be injured at work than other employees. Similarly, studies conducted in Australia and overseas have found no differences in performance and productivity, and found that employees with disability actually have fewer scheduled absences as well as increased tenure. On average, employing people with disability does not cost any more than employing people without disability. Assistance with the cost of making workplace adjustments is available through the Australian Government funded Workplace Modifications Scheme.