Joining the Inclusive Employment Australia program can feel like a big step, particularly if you are unsure what will happen at your first appointment. We outline what to expect.
Welcome to Inclusive Employment Australia.
Also called IEA, this Australian Government program is designed to help you prepare for, find and maintain a job.
How does it work exactly? And how do you get started?
We explain it all with this handy step-by-step guide.
Once you have connected with an IEA service provider, someone from its team will meet with you to understand your goals and plan the support you may need.
Your first appointment is not a job interview or a test. You do not have to arrive with a job already chosen or every part of your future planned.
Your first appointment is an opportunity for your provider to get to know you. You may talk about:
It is also your opportunity to ask questions and decide whether you feel comfortable with the provider’s approach.
A good employment match is not only about the job title. Your provider should also consider the workplace, duties, hours, location and support available.
Your provider will let you know if you need to bring appropriate identification or specific documents to the appointment. It may also help to have with you:
Do not worry if you do not have a résumé or previous employment experience.
You can ask whether a family member, carer, advocate or other trusted person can attend your appointment. They may help you:
You should remain at the centre of the conversation. Your support person can assist while still allowing you to express your interests, preferences and goals.
People with intellectual disability may understand and communicate information in different ways. Tell your provider if it would help them to:
It is okay to ask someone to slow down, repeat information or explain it differently.
A specialist intellectual disability employment provider should understand that clear communication is an important part of providing the right support.
Your provider should explain:
You may also need to complete identity, privacy or consent forms.
Some people have activities they must complete to continue receiving an income-support payment. Other people participate voluntarily and do not have mutual obligation requirements.
Your provider should explain your rights and responsibilities as an IEA participant.
Ask your provider to explain what applies to you and what you have agreed to do.
You and your provider will work together to create a Job Plan. Your Job Plan should explain:
You and your provider need to agree to the Job Plan before your services begin.
The plan can be updated if your goals, circumstances or support needs change. Tell your provider if something in the plan does not make sense or does not feel suitable.
Your support will depend on your goals and where you are in your employment journey. It may include:
Not everyone will be ready to apply for jobs immediately. Some people may need more time to develop skills, explore their options or build confidence.
Your IEA provider can continue supporting you after you start a job. This could include help to:
Your provider can also work with your employer with your permission.
Your provider can support you and your employer for at least the first year after you start a new job.
Ongoing help may continue after the first year if you still need support to keep working.
Endeavour Foundation is a specialist IEA provider for people with intellectual disability, operating in selected areas across Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.
Our team takes the time to understand your strengths, communication preferences, employment goals and workplace support needs.
Ready to take the next step?
Chat with us to learn more about your first appointment and the specialist employment support we offer through the IEA program.