People with an intellectual disability prefer more choice with employment options and more community facing roles rather than just traditional supported employment roles. However, data reveal that transition rates from supported to open employment in Australia remain very low. 

To examine current organisational and policy barriers preventing transition from supported to open employment, a series of 27 in-depth interviews were conducted with people with an intellectual disability, staff from supported employers, and staff from open employers.

The research identified several key policy and organisational barriers to people with intellectual disability transitioning to open employment. These included inflexible funding models and packages; lack of knowledge and experience of open employers; and insufficient training, pathways, and supports for people to make the transition. 

The findings highlight broader policy and program reforms are required, commencing in school and inclusive of all employer groups.