Work experience opportunity for Echuca job seekers with disability

Workways general manager for disability employment Liz Leadbeater said local employers will be able to glimpse first-hand how employing a diverse workforce isn’t as hard, expensive or complicated as perceived.

“Diversity is crucial to a thriving workplace and having a job seeker with disability participate in the workplace for a day can really show that an inclusive workforce brings far more benefits to businesses than the misconceived barriers like cost and reliability,” she said.

“What business wouldn’t want improved employee engagement and retention, higher morale and productivity and a better reputation?”

Despite 2.2 million Australians of working age living with disability, Australians with disability are under-represented in the workforce.

While some progress has been made with employers adopting more inclusive recruitment practices, there is still room for improvement.

The recent Australian Government ‘Employ their Ability’ campaign found 77 per cent of employers were open to hiring people with disability.

However, in reality, only 35 per cent of employers demonstrate a commitment to actually hiring people with disability.

This disconnect means that the employment rate for people with disability is almost half compared to those without disability.

“Employers who take the time and effort to provide opportunities for those who are often overlooked regularly remark that this was the best decision they have ever made and that the employees have quickly become incredible assets to their business,” Ms Leadbeater said.

For more information or to register your interest, call Workways Goulburn Valley on 1800 631 196.