Finding a meaningful job is a key step toward independence, financial stability and career growth. However, for individuals with disabilities, securing and maintaining employment can be challenging. That’s where NDIS employment support come in.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers funding to help participants gain job-ready skills, find employment and succeed in long-term careers. Whether you need workplace adjustments, career training, or ongoing job support, the NDIS provides various services to help you reach your employment goals.
How the NDIS Supports Employment Goals
The NDIS provides flexible and personalised support to individuals looking to:
- Find and secure employment in an accessible work environment.
- Develop job-related skills such as communication, teamwork and time management.
- Receive workplace accommodations for accessibility and job performance.
- Maintain and grow in their career through coaching and ongoing assistance.
These employment supports break down barriers and give participants the tools they need to thrive in the workforce.
Types of NDIS Employment Supports
Workplace Assistance (Finding and Keeping a Job)
The Workplace Assistance program helps individuals prepare for, secure and maintain employment by providing essential career support.
This service includes:
- Career planning – Identifying the right job opportunities based on skills and interests.
- Job-readiness training – Resume writing, interview coaching and workplace etiquette training.
- Workplace adjustments – Providing assistive technology, modified workspaces and accessibility tools.
- Support for career growth – Helping individuals transition into long-term roles with greater responsibility.
- Self-employment support – Offering guidance for individuals interested in running their own business.
- Transitioning from Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) to open employment.
This service is funded under Capacity Building Supports in an NDIS plan.
Supports in Employment (Specialised Supported Employment)
Some individuals need additional workplace assistance due to complex needs. The NDIS offers Supports in Employment to help individuals adapt to their work environment, complete tasks efficiently and succeed in their roles.
Supports available include:
- On-the-job coaching – Hands-on guidance to improve workplace performance.
- Task modification – Customising job duties based on individual strengths.
- Workplace communication support – Assisting with professional interactions and workplace relationships.
- Mobility and personal care assistance – Helping individuals navigate their workplace safely.
- Support for complex needs – Providing tailored solutions for cognitive, sensory, or mental health challenges.
This support is funded under Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life in an NDIS plan.
School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)
Young people transitioning from school to work often need extra guidance and training. The School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program provides tailored employment assistance for up to two years after leaving school.
SLES services include:
- Work experience placements – Providing real-world job training.
- Skill-building workshops – Teaching professional communication, problem-solving and teamwork.
- Career exploration – Helping school leavers identify job opportunities that match their interests.
- Confidence-boosting programs – Encouraging self-advocacy and professional independence.
This program ensures school leavers gain the skills and experience needed to succeed in the workforce.
Employment-Related Assessments and Counselling
Some individuals need specialist career guidance to determine the best employment options for their skills and abilities. The NDIS funds employment-related assessments and career counselling to help individuals:
- Transition to a new career due to injury or changing circumstances.
- Identify employment barriers and find solutions.
- Access workplace accommodations for better job performance.
These assessments ensure participants choose the right career path and receive the necessary workplace support.
What the NDIS Does Not Cover
While the NDIS provides extensive employment support, it does not fund:
- Wages and salaries – Employers must pay individuals for their work.
- Disability Employment Services (DES) – This is a government-run employment support program.
- Centrelink payments or wage subsidies – These financial benefits are not part of NDIS funding.
- TAFE or university courses – Education costs must be covered by individuals or government grants.
- Work uniforms, tools, or textbooks – Employers or individuals must purchase work-related materials.
For financial assistance, individuals can explore government employment programs or employer-funded initiatives.
How to Access Employment Supports in Your NDIS Plan
To include employment support in your NDIS plan, you must discuss your career goals during your NDIS planning or review meeting. To increase your chances of receiving funding, follow these steps:
- Outline your career goals – Explain how employment will improve your independence and quality of life.
- Provide supporting documents – Bring career plans, assessments and employment-related reports from therapists or employment agencies.
- Highlight employment barriers – Demonstrate how NDIS support will help you overcome challenges in the workplace.
The more clear and specific your employment goals, the better your chances of getting NDIS funding for job support.
Final Thoughts
A meaningful career is within reach and NDIS employment supports can help individuals find, secure and grow in their jobs. Whether it is career coaching, job training, workplace adjustments, or on-the-job support, the NDIS provides comprehensive resources to help participants succeed. At SAN Support, we are committed to helping individuals build independence and break barriers.