Having a job is more than just earning an income—it’s about independence, purpose, and inclusion. For people with disability, finding meaningful employment can be a life-changing milestone. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises this and provides funding and services to support employment-related goals.
At APTOS, we understand that each participant’s employment journey is unique. Whether you’re looking to explore career options, build work skills, or secure your first job, our support coordination team is here to help. In this article, we explain how the NDIS supports employment and how support coordination can guide you along the way.
Employment and the NDIS: What’s Covered?
The NDIS provides funding for employment-related supports that help participants:
- Prepare for the workforce
- Gain job-ready skills
- Access training or work experience
- Transition into open or supported employment
Funding is typically allocated under the Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job support category, though Core Supports may also be used to assist with daily needs that enable participation in work.
Examples of Employment Supports:
- Career counselling or vocational assessments
- Resume writing and job interview practice
- Support from a disability employment service (DES)
- Travel training and transport support
- Workplace modifications or assistive technology
- On-the-job support from a job coach or mentor
The goal is to empower people with disability to achieve economic participation and pursue meaningful, sustainable work.
How Support Coordination Helps With Employment Goals
Support coordination plays a key role in turning employment goals into actionable plans. Here’s how APTOS can help:
1. Identifying Employment Goals
Support coordinators help participants explore what they’d like to do and what steps are needed to get there. This includes:
- Discussing interests, strengths, and aspirations
- Identifying barriers and support needs
- Writing realistic, NDIS-aligned employment goals for plan reviews
2. Connecting With the Right Services
Navigating job services can be complex. APTOS coordinators link participants with:
- Disability Employment Services (DES)
- Training programs and registered training organisations (RTOs)
- Work experience or volunteer opportunities
- Occupational therapists or vocational psychologists for assessments
3. Coordinating Supports for Work Readiness
Employment isn’t just about having a job—it’s about being ready for the demands of work. Support coordination can:
- Arrange skill-building programs (e.g. time management, communication)
- Coordinate transport and daily living supports
- Facilitate access to mental health support or behaviour therapy if needed
4. Supporting Transitions and Ongoing Success
Whether transitioning from school to work, or re-entering the workforce after a break, coordinators can:
- Monitor progress and adjust supports
- Advocate for workplace accommodations or support workers
- Help with plan reviews to increase employment-related funding
Real-World NDIS Employment Pathways
Many participants have successfully used their NDIS plans to pursue meaningful careers. Examples include:
- A young person with autism completing a Certificate III in Hospitality with funding for a job coach
- A person with physical disability securing an admin role after receiving ergonomic assessments and workplace modifications
- A participant with psychosocial disability volunteering at a local op shop to build confidence before seeking paid employment
Each journey is different, but with the right support, employment is a real and achievable goal.
Setting Strong Employment Goals in Your NDIS Plan
Here are some examples of employment-focused goals:
- “I want to gain work experience in an animal care setting.”
- “I want to build skills to apply for a part-time job.”
- “I want to develop my resume and attend job interviews with confidence.”
- “I want support to maintain my job and manage workplace relationships.”
Support coordinators can help you frame goals that align with your strengths and make them clear and actionable for planners.
Addressing Common Employment Barriers
Many participants face challenges that can affect their ability to work, including:
- Anxiety or mental health conditions
- Physical or sensory impairments
- Past negative experiences in work or education
- Lack of confidence or social support
APTOS support coordinators help identify these barriers and put tailored supports in place to overcome them, ensuring the participant feels empowered, not overwhelmed.
Why Employment Matters
Having a job can:
- Improve self-esteem and independence
- Provide financial security
- Build social connections
- Offer routine and structure
- Promote skill development and learning
NDIS funding is about supporting participants to live the life they choose—and for many, work is a big part of that life.
Why Choose APTOS for Employment Support Coordination?
At APTOS, we bring a person-centred, goal-driven approach to every participant’s employment journey. We offer:
- Knowledge of local training and job programs
- Experience working with a range of disabilities and employment goals
- Collaborative support with DES providers, therapists, and employers
- Encouragement, advocacy, and practical help at every step
Whether you’re aiming to explore a career path, build workplace confidence, or transition to open employment, we’re here to support your goals.
Final Thoughts
Employment is possible—and meaningful—when the right supports are in place. Through support coordination and a well-designed NDIS plan, participants can take real steps toward finding and keeping a job that suits their skills and aspirations.
Ready to explore employment through the NDIS? Contact APTOS today and let us help you take the next step in your career journey.
