Supported employment is a type of job for people with disability who need extra ongoing support while they are at work. Workplaces that offer these jobs are called supported employment services.

Types of supported employment jobs

Supported employment services provide different types of work. This can include jobs in:

• recycling
• screen-printing
• gardening
• cleaning
• food services and more.

They are usually not-for-profit organisations, giving people a chance to work and take part in the community.

Getting a supported employment job

To work in supported employment, you may need to have a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan that includes funding for employment supports. If you’re already an NDIS participant, you can talk about your work goals and options with your NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator.

For more information, visit Supports in employment on the NDIS website or call 1800 800 110.

You can find out about supported employment services in your area on the BuyAbility website.

Wages in supported employment

Employers may pay supported employees using the Supported Wage System (SWS).

When using the SWS, an assessor checks how long it takes you to do your usual tasks at work. For example, if you are a gardening worker, the assessor might check how long it takes you to mow a lawn. If it takes 20% more than the standard time, the employer will pay you 20% less than the usual award rate of pay. The assessor will time all your usual tasks, then work out an overall pay rate.

Find out more about the SWS and the assessment process.

Moving to open employment

Open employment means a job that is open to anyone. It is a job in the mainstream job market, where people with and without disability work together.

If you work in supported employment and would like to get a job in open employment:

• you may be able to get help from a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider
• you don't have to give up your supported employment job to get DES assistance.