For the 5.5 million Australians who live with disability1 – particularly the one in three with severe or profound disability2 – finding secure and meaningful work can be a challenge. Only half of people with disability aged 15-64 have a job, while 1 in 10 have experienced discrimination. Concerningly, of those who are employed, employers are the most common source of this bias3.
Disability can take many forms – not all of them visible. While physical disabilities are often recognised, less visible conditions such as psychological, mental health and cognitive disabilities are frequently overlooked. This lack of awareness can perpetuate stigma and exclude capable individuals from the workforce.
This International Day of People with Disability (3rd December), employment services provider, atWork Australia, in partnership with McDonald's Australia, is shining a light on the importance of diversity in the workforce. This year's United Nations theme of 'Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future' highlights the role of inclusive employment practices in fostering innovation, growth and equity.
Over the last 12 months atWork Australia has supported over 5,700 individuals with varying barriers to secure employment. Of these, atWork Australia has found that more than half of their clients have struggled with invisible disabilities, such as psychiatric disorders, depression, anxiety and spinal disorders.
Similarly, employers such as McDonald's are setting an inspiring example. atWork Australia has had a strong working partnership with McDonald's and its franchisees for more than 6 years, which has led to opportunities for over 400 people of varying ages, ethnicity, disability and experience into roles across their many restaurants across Australia. Roles include Crew Member, Customer Experience as well as Crew and Restaurant Leadership positions.
atWork Australia have supported thousands of people through the Disability Employment Services (DES) program over the past year, including those living with injuries or mental health conditions. For many people living with disability, participating in work provides a sense of community, social inclusion and a feeling of contributing to society. While also providing structure, routine and financial security.
Through DES, individuals are empowered to set employment goals and work with a Job Coach to figure out what role they are most suited to. Participants are supported with CV writing, training, updating qualifications, and interview preparation to set clients up for success, while having access to in-house allied health professionals ensures their wellbeing needs are met.
One example of success with the program is through atWork Australia client, Kathleen, aged 52 years, from Gladesville, New South Wales. Her journey to stable employment has been filled with setbacks, including a lack of supportive workplaces and roles that didn't align with her abilities or needs. Experiencing depression, anxiety and facing motivational challenges, she struggled to find a workplace where she felt valued.
That changed when she connected with atWork Australia. "They really listened and valued me," Kathleen shared. "I had several support team members (including a Job Coach and In-Work Support Coach) who were incredibly compassionate and understanding. They encouraged me and went above and beyond to seek opportunities that were best fit for me, leading to my dream role."
Through personalised support, including tailored job searches and a team who championed her capabilities, she found a role at McDonald's in Penrith that brought excitement and purpose back into her life. "This role gave me a sense of reassurance and drive," she said. "I'm motivated by excitement, and this job gives me that."
Kathleen's enthusiasm and dedication, like many of the people with disability McDonald's and its franchisees support across its restaurants, does not go unnoticed. Amanda Belz, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Manager at McDonald's said, "At Macca's, we mean it when we say our doors are open to everyone. We work hard to build inclusive workplaces; from making the types of adjustments needed to support wonderful employees like Kathleen, to encouraging our teams to learn from and embrace the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our people. Valuing strength in diversity is at the core of what makes us Macca's!"
Kathleen's story highlights the importance of recognising the diverse forms of disability and providing tailored, compassionate support to break down employment barriers. Employers and service providers like atWork Australia are crucial in ensuring that people with disabilities are not only employed but truly empowered.
