What Types of Employment Supports Can Be Funded Through the NDIS?
Understanding Employment Support Under the NDIS
The NDIS recognises that employment is more than just a job, it’s about stability, skill development, and community participation. That’s why the scheme includes supports in employment NDIS under the “Capacity Building” category of a participant’s plan. These supports are designed to remove barriers and give participants the best chance of achieving their career goals.
It’s important to note that NDIS-funded supports focus on building capacity and addressing disability-related needs. They are different from mainstream NDIS disability employment services like Disability Employment Services (DES), which have traditionally connected jobseekers to employers. However, DES is being phased out and will be replaced by Inclusive Employment Australia, a new model aimed at creating fairer, more effective pathways into work for people with disability.
Types of Employment Supports Funded by the NDIS
1. Pre-Employment Supports
These are designed to help participants prepare for the workforce. They may include:
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Career exploration and goal setting
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Job-readiness training
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Resume writing and interview practice
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Support to identify suitable roles that match interests and abilities
2. On-the-Job Supports
Once employment begins, the NDIS can provide funding for tailored workplace assistance, such as:
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Job coaching and mentoring
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Adjustments to work tasks or environment
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Ongoing training to build independence
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Assistance with workplace communication and social skills
3. Travel and Access Support
For some participants, getting to and from work can be a challenge. The NDIS may fund:
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Travel training to build confidence using public transport
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Supports for safe and reliable transport arrangements
4. Work Experience and Skills Development
The NDIS can help create pathways into employment by supporting:
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Work experience placements
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Volunteering opportunities to build skills
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Short courses or training aligned with career goals
5. Self-Employment Support
For participants interested in running their own business, the NDIS may fund:
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Capacity building for small business planning
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Coaching to manage workloads and adapt processes
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Supports to build long-term sustainability in self-employment
How to Access These Supports
To access NDIS supports in employment, participants need to include employment as a goal in their NDIS plan. During planning or review meetings, they can discuss the types of supports required and how these will help achieve their goals. Supporting evidence from healthcare professionals, educators, or past employers can also strengthen the case.
Final Thoughts
Employment is more than a source of income; it’s a pathway to independence and purpose. Through a wide range of tailored supports, the NDIS disability employment services and employment-related funding give people with disability the chance to thrive in the workforce. By understanding the available options, participants and their families can make informed choices that align with long-term career aspirations.
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