But, for Upper Hunter job seekers with a disability, injury or mental health condition, it can feel like the hurdles to landing employment are raised significantly along the way.

However, that job pathway is set to become clearer.

Not-for-profit organisation Workskil Australia has formed a dedicated team of caring Disability Employment Services specialists in the Upper Hunter.

And, on July 1, it will open its doors to assist disadvantaged local job seekers.

“Every job seeker deserves the right to employment and to feel valued,” CEO Nicole Dwyer said.

“We want to remove all the barriers to employment that those with disability, injury or mental health conditions face every day.

“We’ve appointed a strong local DES team in the Upper Hunter to assist job seekers along every step of the way. 

“This includes assistance with perfecting resumes and identifying job opportunities right through to support for a year after starting work.

“By providing a high level of support and understanding, our local team takes a personal interest in helping job seekers find and keep their ideal job. 

“We understand the needs of employers and work with them to create unique opportunities for our job-seeking clients.”

From July 1, major changes come into effect to the Australian Government’s existing Disability Employment Services (DES) program aimed at helping more people with a disability, injury or mental health condition find and maintain employment.

Under the changes job seekers will have greater choice about the services they receive within the DES program and how they receive them.

What assistance is available for job seekers

AS a certified DES provider, Workskil Australia provides support tailored to the specific needs of each job seeker including:

* Career counselling

* Further training, education, apprenticeships and work experience

* Real life work trials

* Links to a variety of jobs with suitable employers

* Ongoing individual employment coaching support

* Financial support for work clothing, transport, education and training

* Workplace modifications and/or specialised equipment

Workskil Australia will provide Disability Employment Services from its network of offices in the Upper Hunter region including Merriwa, Murrurundi, Muswellbrook, Scone and Singleton.

Over the years, it has assisted thousands of job seekers across the country with a disability or facing difficulty and disadvantage.

“In our experience, the overwhelming feedback we receive is that when someone with disability, injury or mental health condition is given a go, the employee relishes the opportunity, prospers and provides real value to their employer,” Ms Dwyer said.

“The overall impact on workplace culture is priceless.

“Despite the significant advances made by many workplaces in embracing workers who need extra support, job seekers still often face discrimination and misconceptions about their potential value to a workplace.

“With the right level of personalised support and understanding, all job seekers can reach their employment goals and build rewarding careers.”

For more details on Workskil Australia’s Disability Employment Services go to www.workskil.com.au