How to Prepare for Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA)

Change is coming to disability employment, but it does not have to be overwhelming. Here are some top tips to help you prepare.

From 1 November 2025, Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) will replace the current Disability Employment Services (DES) program.

This new model is designed to provide more flexible, personalised support to help people with disability find and keep rewarding employment that aligns with their strengths, interests and goals.

If you, a family member or someone you support is currently with a DES provider, now is the ideal time to start preparing for a smooth transition to IEA.

As a specialist IEA provider for people with intellectual disability, Endeavour Foundation is here to guide you every step of the way.

We offer the experience, resources and tailored support to help you feel confident and ready for what is next.

Here is a clear, practical guide to help you prepare for the change.

1. Understand What Is Changing

Before you can make the most of IEA, it helps to know the basics:

• IEA replaces DES from 1 November 2025 – no new DES participants will be accepted after this date
• The new model offers flexible, person-centred support, including more choice regarding your provider and how your employment pathway is structured
• Services are available for people of working age with disability (15–64) who want to prepare for, find and keep a job

Tip: Looking for a provider who knows how to deliver these supports effectively? Endeavour Foundation has decades of experience in inclusive employment and strong connections with local employers.

2. Review Your Current Employment Goals

Think about:

• What type of work you are interested in
• Any skills you want to learn or improve
• Support needs you have in the workplace or during a job search

Tip: When you meet with our team, we will use your goals to create a personalised employment pathway and connect you to the right opportunities.

3. Gather Key Documents

Having your paperwork ready will make the transition faster and easier. You may need:

• Your NDIS plan (if you have one)
• Identification documents (e.g., driver’s licence, Medicare card, proof of address)
• Any employment or training records (resumes, certificates, references)
• Notes on previous job placements or work experience

Tip: If you do not have all these documents, that is okay. Endeavour Foundation can guide you through what is essential and help you get it sorted.

4. Talk to Your Support Network

Involve the people who help you make decisions:

• Family or carers
• Support Coordinators or Local Area Coordinators (LACs)
• Friends or mentors who understand your work goals

Tip: Invite members of your support network to your first meeting with Endeavour Foundation so everyone feels confident about the transition.

5. Research Potential Providers

When IEA begins, you can choose your provider. Look for one that:

• Has experience supporting people with your specific needs
• Offers flexible, tailored support options
• Has established employer connections in your region

Tip: Endeavour Foundation offers inclusive employment services with strong employer partnerships, tailored supports and a proven record of delivering genuine results.

6. Know the Referral Process

If you are part of the DES program now, you will need to transfer to an IEA provider.

• Your DES provider will guide you through this process
• If you are not currently associated with DES, you can apply directly to an IEA provider from 1 November 2025

Tip: Let your current provider know your choice early. It makes the transfer smoother.

7. Stay Informed

Keep an eye out for:

• Announcements from your current provider
• Updates from the Department of Social Services (DSS)
• Information from Endeavour Foundation about our IEA services

Tip: The fastest way to get updates is to register your interest with us now.

Your Next Step

Starting early can make a big difference.

At Endeavour Foundation, we are here to help you understand your options, build a personalised plan and feel confident about what is ahead.

As an IEA specialist provider, we will support people with intellectual disability to find work they value and workplaces that value them.

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.