1800 464 800
1800 464 800

Wages based on productivity

Most people with disability are able to perform jobs at the same capacity as any other employee. These people naturally receive full rates of pay.

Other people, however, have disabilities that significantly affect how much they are able to achieve at work each day. In these cases, employers may need an option to pay people with disability a fair wage for the work they do. This makes it more sustainable for organisations to employ people with disability and keep them in work.

The Supported Wage System (SWS) allows an employer to match an appropriate wage with the productivity of a person with disability. For example, if you are assessed as having a work productivity rate of 70 per cent, this may allow your employer to hire you at 70 per cent of the usual award rate of pay. The productivity percentage only applies to your wage rate. All other conditions of employment are the same as your co-workers.

The Supported Wage System (SWS) application process

Your service provider or your employer applies for the SWS on your behalf.
You commence a  work trial to gain  work skills and competencies.
An independent assessor conducts an initial SWS assessment to determine your work productivity. A wage assessment agreement is then signed by all parties.

For more information about SWS go to the Supported Wage System page.

For details of SWS, including eligibility, contact a JobAccess Adviser on 1800 464 800, speak to a Disability Employment Services provider in your area, download the relevant Supported Wage System Handbook, or contact the Department of Social Services (DSS) Supported Wage Management Unit on 1800 065 123.

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