The following case studies and success stories can provide inspiration as you look for work or maintain your job. You may find it useful to discuss these stories with your employer or co-workers. Each one prints out as a handy fact sheet.
Amputation—Considering new opportunities got Allan work
Workplace modifications allowed Allan, who lost his left arm in a car accident, to operate vehicles and equipment.
Anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder—Barbara's dream to help others finally comes true
Barbara always dreamed of being a nurse and helping other people, however, Barbara's disability was a major barrier to achieving that dream. Disability Employment provider, Nova, and an open minded employer gave Nova the help she needed and Barbara is ecstatic to finally be able to help others.
Arm injury—modifications and equipment help Darren perform his job
The purchase of specialist equipment has helped Darren become more productive on the job through addressing workplace barriers experienced as a result of an arm injury.
Asperger’s syndrome—No barriers to Leigh’s public service career
Applying for a job in the Australian Public Service can be daunting—you are faced with ‘selection criteria’, ‘conditions of engagement’ and ‘panel interviews’. Leigh was not ready to give up his dream and has proved that a public service career is well within reach.
Autism—A wage based on productivity secures the job
For Justine, a productivity based wage has allowed her to thrive in the open labour market.
Back injury—Modifications secured Patrick's job
Thanks to the Employment Assistance Fund and a supportive employer, 28 year old Patrick is working full time in a job he loves.
Back injury—Neil's success by being his own boss
Neil saw a need for an advertising and graphic design business in Toowoomba and thought this would be an excellent way to find work which would not strain his back.
Back injury—The Butterfly Experience, an inspiring transformation
Deborah is a successful business owner and life coach who runs an award-winning motivational programme The Butterfly Experience through her business Squiggly Training. Deborah set up her new business with the help of the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme.
Bipolar disorder—Melissa's back at work and happier
With help from her Disability Employment Network member Melissa is doing well at work.
Cerebral Palsy—Dream to work in photography and desktop publishing
With assistance from the Sydney Employment Development Service and JobAccess, Jess’ employment dream came true.
Cerebral Palsy—Vehicle modifications make work easier
A few modifications enable Michael to complete his important role at Taronga Zoo.
Chloe – being profoundly deaf has not been a barrier to work or study
As a successful Big W employee, Chloe has received a number of Employee Awards for professional service and conduct.
Depression—A change in career was what Barry needed to get back on his feet
Barry needed to get back on his feet and becoming a nursery assistant in a supportive working environment was the answer. As time went on Barry's confidence grew and he was able to take on more and more responsibilities.
Depression—Mary achieves her dream to work
‘I wanted to work so much…I got really unwell and lost my confidence’, Mary said. Receiving support from her employment coordinator and her family and friends, Mary was able to regain her confidence and get work.
Depression—Talking about my depression allowed my managers to help
An employee's personal story of how disclosing depression allowed managers to provide support and strategies to help.
Down Syndrome—A retail job and more independence for Kevin
Kevin, who has Down syndrome, was ready for a change after picking tomatoes and other produce for 18 years. Pre-employment training and a new watch with five alarms enabled Kevin to gain a job in the retail industry.
Down syndrome—A productivity based wage and full time work for Leckie
Having access to a free wage assessment has allowed Leckie to work in the competitive, open labour market for over 10 years.
Eye Disease—Traineeship secured Ashley's job
Completing a traineeship secured Ashley’s job as a groundsperson at Coastal Habits, a four star resort in Hervey Bay.
Foot injury—Realising a dream
After a workplace accident resulted in permanent foot injury, Shaun changed his job as a steel rigger to join a local importer of aquarium fish and freshwater marine life.
Juvenile Macular Degeneration is no barrier to completing office tasks
After receiving help with assistive technology from the Employment Assistance Fund, Damien has become more productive at work.
Knee injury—Rehabilitation, some small changes and Brian returns to work
With support from rehabilitation and from his Provider of Australian Government Employment Services, Brian was able to return to work after a knee injury.
Mental illness—Negotiating a successful return to work
With the help of a Disability Employment Network member Sonia has sucessfully returned to work after a period of mental health related sick leave.
Mental health condition—Simple workplace solutions make the world of difference
John managed his mental health condition well for about twelve months before becoming unwell. Some flexible work conditions and work—related software allowed John to return to work. The manager was so happy with John's productivity that he offered the whole team the software.
Paraplegia—A new start for Bevan
Being in a wheelchair hasn't stopped Bevan starting up an award winning business.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder—A little support helped Walter go from 'unemployable' to successfully employed
Through the support of his employer and the Employment Assistance Fund, Walter has a workplace that accommodates his needs. Marist Youth Care now have a dedicated and successful Human Resource Coordinator and Walter is enjoying the benefits of sustainable employment.
Profoundly deaf—Kellie's aspirations supported by employer
Kellie, a determined young university graduate has found in Telstra an employer who will support her career ambitions.
Quadriplegia—Vocational rehabilitation assistance helps Tony get back to work
Tony is back at work on his vineyard with vocational rehabilitation assistance and the Employment Assistance Fund.
Spina bifida—Small changes make a big difference for Kirsten
Sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. For 23 year old Kirsten, the Employment Assistance Fund has made a life changing difference by giving her the chance to take on her first job.
Vision impairment—Learning to use visual aides to overcome diminishing eye sight
Fraser de Groot is a psychotherapist and was facing several challenges as a result of diminishing eye sight. Fraser's capacity to work was being significantly affected.
Vision impairment—Show your employer what you can do
With a few workplace modifications, Maryjane is a confident and productive employee.
JobAccess Advisers
If you want more information or help getting work contact the JobAccess Advisers on 1800 464 800 or online: