Australian businesses can meet seasonal hiring demands by diversifying workforce

The holiday season is right around the corner.

For businesses in seasonal sectors, getting the right talent can be challenging as they hire new staff to meet increased demand.

With the unemployment rate sitting at 4.1%, companies are competing for a small pool of candidates. Yet, many employers usually overlook a skilled talent pool, i.e. people with disability.

One in five Australians lives with disability. The Australian Bureau of Statistics says that just over 60 per cent of people with disability are in the workforce. In contrast, 84.9 per cent of people without disability are employed.

Research shows that people with disability are productive, safe, and reliable in the workplace. They bring unique skills, experience, and viewpoints to the table.

Furthermore, JobAccess’ research review shows that hiring people with disability pays off. Employers benefit from higher retention, cost savings, and innovation.

Now is the perfect time for businesses to boost their disability confidence and expand their talent pool. JobAccess has some simple tips to help employers get started:

• Ensure job ads invite all candidates to apply: Create accessible and disability-inclusive job ads to attract a wide range of candidates, including people with disability. The JobAccess Employer Toolkit is a great starting point. It includes helpful tips to create and promote inclusive job ads.

• Make the hiring process disability-inclusive: Take steps to make every stage of the hiring process inclusive and accessible for all candidates. Some candidates with disability may require adjustments to participate in an interview. It's good practice to ask if they require any adjustments to participate in the interview or to perform the job. Check out JobAccess’ Conversation Guide on workplace adjustments for comprehensive advice and tips on managing adjustments to support people with disability at work.

• Connect with Disability Employment Services (DES) providers: They are Government-funded employment services providers across Australia. DES providers can help connect the organisation with candidates with disability, at no cost. They can also help employers develop inclusive policies and practices to hire people with disability.

• Consider job trials: This can help candidates and employers determine if the job is a good fit. It can also help identify specific workplace adjustments to perform the role effectively.

• Foster an inclusive work culture amongst the team: A diverse, accessible, and inclusive workplace has many benefits. Think about how the reporting manager and other team members can support each employee at work. Employers can organise specific disability awareness, deafness awareness, and mental health awareness training to support the team's knowledge and confidence through JobAccess. These trainings can be funded by the Employment Assistance Fund.

Get in touch with JobAccess. We’re here to help.

JobAccess is to go-to expert for disability employment in Australia.

For confidential and tailored advice, call JobAccess at 1800 464 800 to speak to our Advisers. You can also submit an online enquiry or explore our website for more information.

Last updated: 8 November 2024 - 2:23pm