Choosing the Right IEA Provider: Key Questions to Ask
Not all Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) providers are the same. Here are some prime questions to ask providers to put you on the path to long-term employment success.
From 1 November 2025, Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) will replace Disability Employment Services (DES) – giving people with disability more flexibility, choice and control over their employment journey.
While DES participants had the ability to choose their provider, the process often felt limited:
- You could only select from providers in your Employment Service Area (ESA)
- Switching was possible but slow and sometimes complicated
- Many employees simply stayed with the provider assigned to them
IEA changes that. It puts you in the driver’s seat with simpler referrals, greater opportunity to switch providers and a focus on informed choices.
This means you can choose a provider who understands your goals and can deliver from day one.
Making that choice early can set you up for success.
Here are some essential questions to ask when choosing your IEA provider and how Endeavour Foundation measures up.
1. Do They Have Experience Supporting People Like Me?
Why it matters: Your employment journey should be shaped around your strengths, abilities and support needs, not a generic program. Providers with the right experience will understand your challenges, have proven strategies that work and be able to adapt their approach to suit you.
What to look for:
- Does the provider have a history of supporting people with your disability type or support requirements?
- Have they worked with people who have similar employment goals to yours?
- Can they share stories or examples of similar participants they have supported successfully?
Red flags: If they speak only in general terms or cannot show relevant examples, they may not have the experience you need.
Why choose Endeavour Foundation: We have been supporting people with disability for more than 70 years, with tailored employment pathways for individuals with intellectual disability and other support needs. We know what works, and we will design a plan that works for you.
2. Do They Have Strong Employer Connections?
Why it matters: A strong employer network is your gateway to real job opportunities. Without it, you might be waiting months for roles that match your skills.
What to look for:
- Can the provider name inclusive employers they currently work with?
- Do they have connections in industries you are interested in?
- Do they create work trials, placements or training pathways to get you job-ready?
Red flags: Providers who rely solely on advertised vacancies or cannot give specific employer examples may have limited reach.
Why choose Endeavour Foundation: We have established partnerships with businesses across Australia – from small local employers to national organisations – who are all committed to inclusive hiring. We actively advocate for you before you even meet an employer, so you are set up for success from the start.
3. What Support Will I Get Once I Start Work?
Why it matters: Getting a job is only the beginning. Keeping it is where ongoing support really matters. Without proper follow-up, participants risk feeling isolated or overwhelmed in the workplace.
What to look for:
- Will the provider pair you with a job coach or workplace mentor?
- Do they support workplace adjustments and problem-solving?
- How often will they check in with you and your employer?
Red flags: If their support stops after the job offer, you could be left without the help you need to settle in and thrive.
Why choose Endeavour Foundation: Our trained job coaches work alongside you and your employer to make sure you feel supported, confident and valued. We stay involved for as long as you need us, not just the first few weeks.
4. Will They Involve My Support Network?
Why it matters: Employment success often relies on collaboration between you, your provider, your employer and your support network. Leaving your family or carers out of the loop can create confusion and missed opportunities.
What to look for:
- Will the provider keep your support network informed about progress?
- Do they welcome your support people to attend planning meetings?
Red flags: Providers who avoid involving your family, carers or coordinators may not be committed to holistic support.
Why choose Endeavour Foundation: We see employment as a team effort. We welcome your family, carers and coordinators into the process, so everyone is working towards the same goals.
5. Can They Show Real Results?
Why it matters: Promises are easy to make, but you need proof that a provider delivers outcomes, not just activity.
What to look for:
- Can the provider share specific examples of participants they have helped into open employment?
- Do they have testimonials or case studies that are relatable to you?
- Can they share retention rates or other success measures?
Red flags: Vague claims without evidence may mean they do not track or achieve genuine results.
Why choose Endeavour Foundation: We have a proven record of helping people with disability find and keep meaningful jobs. We are proud to share our success stories, and you will find plenty of them on our website and social media channels:
Why Your Choice Matters
Choosing your IEA provider is about more than just ticking a box. It shapes your job opportunities, your workplace support and your future.
With IEA making choice easier and switching simpler, now is the time to pick a provider who will deliver from the start.
At Endeavour Foundation, we offer tailored pathways, strong employer connections and a proven history of helping people succeed at work.
Your Next Step
Every choice you make now shapes your success under IEA. So why wait?
The sooner you choose your provider, the more time we have to understand your goals, prepare your plan and connect you with the right opportunities.
Call us on 1800 112 112 or reach out online today to get the conversation started.
When you get in contact with Endeavour Foundation, you will:
- Get priority access to our IEA welcome process before the program begins
- Be personally matched with a team member who understands your aspirations and support needs
- Have your plan ready to go from day one, so you can start working towards your goals immediately after launch
Choose a provider who is ready to walk beside you every step of the way.
Start your IEA journey with Endeavour Foundation – where your success is our purpose.
Register your interest in Endeavour Foundation below to receive important updates, practical tips and resources to help you prepare for the transition to Inclusive Employment Australia, or click here to learn more.