Employment is more than a pay check it offers purpose, social connection and independence. For many Australians living with disability, securing meaningful work can be challenging. That’s where NDIS Employment Services come in.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides tailored support to help participants overcome employment barriers, develop skills and maintain long-term jobs. Whether someone needs short-term guidance or ongoing workplace support, the NDIS makes inclusive employment more accessible across Australia.
In this article, we’ll explain what NDIS Disability Employment Services are, how they function and the impact they have on both job seekers and employers.
What Are NDIS Disability Employment Services?
NDIS Disability Employment Services (DES) help people with disabilities, injuries or health conditions find and keep meaningful jobs. These services are tailored to individual needs and are funded through the NDIS, depending on each participant’s employment goals.
These employment support services:
- Provide job-seeking assistance
- Offer workplace transition and mentoring
- Deliver long-term job retention support
- Promote inclusive hiring practices among employers
NDIS employment services aim to break down barriers so participants can build careers and contribute fully to their communities.
The Two Main Types of NDIS Employment Services
To ensure support meets different levels of need, Disability Employment Services are delivered through two distinct streams:
Disability Management Services (DMS)
DMS assists people with temporary or non-permanent disabilities who are ready for work but may need short-term help. This stream includes:
- Resume and interview preparation
- Job search support
- Initial workplace assistance
DMS is ideal for individuals who can work independently after minimal support.
Employment Support Services (ESS)
ESS provides long-term assistance for people with permanent disabilities who require regular support at work. This support includes:
- Finding suitable job roles
- On-site training and supervision
- Ongoing communication with employers
- Help with career progression
ESS ensures job seekers can find and keep employment with the right level of support.
NDIS Employment Supports and Funding Explained
NDIS participants with employment goals may receive funding for additional workplace supports in their NDIS plan. These supports bridge the gap between standard employer obligations and the specific needs of the individual.
NDIS job support funding may cover:
- On-the-job coaching and mentoring
- Communication and social skills training
- Transport or travel training
- Behavioural support in work settings
- Assistive technology and tools for work tasks
Since July 1, 2020, the NDIS introduced more flexible pricing arrangements, giving participants greater control over how and where they receive support. Participants can now choose providers, customise services and shape their employment journey to suit their lifestyle.
For participants needing structured workplace settings, Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) offer supported employment opportunities with consistent supervision and skill-building activities.
How Disability Employment Services Help Employers
NDIS Disability Employment Services also benefit employers by creating inclusive workplaces that welcome and retain people with disabilities. Employment service providers actively work with businesses to ensure accessible hiring and support strategies are in place.
Employers receive help with:
- Inclusive recruitment practices
- Training on disability awareness
- Access to funding and wage subsidies
- Implementing workplace modifications
Common adjustments include flexible hours, modified duties, assistive technology or changes to the physical work environment. These reasonable accommodations benefit not just the employee but the entire organisation by promoting diversity and improving staff morale.
Benefits of NDIS Employment Services
NDIS Disability Employment Services provide life-changing benefits that extend far beyond job placement. These services empower participants, support business growth and build more inclusive communities.
Benefits for Participants:
- Greater independence and self-confidence
- Enhanced social and communication skills
- Access to meaningful, long-term employment
- Improved mental and emotional wellbeing
- Pathways to financial security
Benefits for Employers:
- Broader access to skilled and motivated workers
- Lower staff turnover through increased loyalty
- Improved workplace culture and morale
- Compliance with diversity and inclusion goals
Benefit for Society:
- Reduced unemployment rates among people with disability
- A stronger, more diverse workforce
- Greater community awareness of inclusive practices
By helping participants achieve their goals, NDIS employment support services foster inclusion and equity throughout Australia.
What Are Reasonable Workplace Adjustments?
Employers play a vital role in making employment accessible. Under Australian law, they must offer reasonable workplace adjustments to accommodate people with disabilities. These can include:
- Modifying work schedules
- Providing ergonomic equipment or assistive technology
- Allowing extra training or supervision
- Changing task responsibilities where necessary
By making these adjustments, employers ensure their workplaces are not only legally compliant but also welcoming and inclusive.
Conclusion: Empowering People Through Supported Employment
NDIS Disability Employment Services are a vital part of Australia’s commitment to workplace equality. These services help individuals overcome barriers, gain independence and find fulfilling work while also educating employers on how to create more inclusive environments.
Whether someone needs short-term guidance or long-term support, NDIS employment services help individuals thrive professionally and socially. At the same time, they enable businesses to tap into the talents of a diverse and dedicated workforce.
As Australia continues to promote workplace inclusion, NDIS-funded employment support will remain a powerful tool for creating change one job at a time.
About SAN Support
At SAN Support, we are passionate about helping NDIS participants reach their employment goals with confidence and dignity. As a trusted NDIS provider in Australia, we offer personalised support services that empower people with disabilities to gain job, build confidence and thrive in the workplace.
Our services include:
- Personal Care and In-Home Support
- Community Participation
- Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- Support Coordination
Through tailored, person-centred support, SAN Support helps participants gain the independence and skills they need to lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.