One platform for all - from assistance to incentives for employers

JobAccess Service helps people with disabilities, employers, employment service providers, and the community to access advice regarding resources, financial assistance, and workplace services. By 2016, the government-driven service has managed 245,000 enquiries and has created 2,500 job opportunities.

By providing practical assistance to people with disabilities, employers, and service providers, Australia’s JobAccess Service is a government-driven service that removes barriers and reduces bureaucratic hurdles to disability employment. To date, JobAccess has managed 245,000 enquiries and 33,000 applications for employment assistance funding, and has created 2,500 job opportunities.

Problems Targeted

Australia’s JobAccess Service of 2006, renewed in 2016, helps people with disabilities, employers, employment service providers, and the community to access advice regarding resources, financial assistance, and workplace services. It engages with employers to educate them on the benefits of employing people with disabilities and on the kinds of support that are available; facilitates the removal of workplace barriers through advice and adaptation grants; and offers people with disabilities the support they need to find or retain a job.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Accommodation 
Not only are environmental adaptations provided, but also communication devices, sign language, and mental health supports. 
Continuous consultation 
The involvement of all stake- holders ensures the ongoing improvement of JobAccess, and recent consultations have led to combining four different services while realizing cost savings and efficiencies.
Access to information 
The JobAccess platform creates a central gateway for support, self-help information, and multi- channel guidance, providing access to the right advice and funding at the right time.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The JobAccess team recently provided information to the United States’ Job Accommodation Network, Qatar’s Assistive Technology Centre, and Canada’s Office of Disability Issues. JobAccess was granted the UN Public Service Award in 2008.

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