One of the consequences of record low unemployment in Australia is the difficulty in recruiting skilled and reliable staff.
In such a tight labour market, more and more companies are looking outside the square to find suitable employees.
A financial services company has seen what a great asset, talented and highly-motivated people with disability can be to their organisation.
Amber, who uses a wheel-chair, is employed as a Frontline Associate, and is the first point of contact for customers. This is a vital role within the company, receiving enquires from the general public and merchants from large retail outlets, and information requests from internal departments.
As Amber’s team leader explains, “JobAccess made the process of employing Amber as smooth as possible, while at the same time increasing our long term capacity to select from a diverse range of candidates”.
“Initial contact with JobAccess was made via the website as a request for a Workplace Assessment available freely through the Australian Government’s Employment Assistance Fund. The Workplace Modifications ssessor visited the site and met with Amber, our Site Facilities Manager and myself. He discussed Amber’s needs with her in a professional and sensitive way and offered numerous suggestions that are now a reality”, said Amber's team leader.
It was determined that the workplace required several modifications for disability access. These included the installation of automated doors leading into the office in the level one foyer, modifying the disabled bathroom door to an automated sliding door with an electric lock and the installation of a concrete pathway to enable Amber, other employees and visitors with access limitations, to enter the premises through the front door.
Having a supportive employer who is open to change is fundamental to the JobAccess advisory service being successful. There is Australian Government funding available for workplace modifications that make it easier for people with disability to access ongoing employment. All it takes to get the ball rolling is a ‘click of the mouse’ button and a visit to the JobAccess web site.
It’s a win/win situation for the employer and the employee. “I’m very happy with my job”, said Amber. “I work with people who are completely supportive and accepting of everything. It is the people that make the job. So when everyone was so keen to help make the workplace as easily accessible as possible for me, I was honoured and so thankful”.
To see how JobAccess can help your business find outstanding employees with disability, as well as identifying how to make your workplace barrier free, search this web site or speak to a JobAccess adviser on freecall 1800 464 800.