Open employment
Video
Inclusive employment matters
A series of videos about people with intellectual disability working in inclusive employment environments in a variety roles including retail, government and recreation. The stories are told by people with disability, their families and employers and highlight the value of inclusive employment for the employees and employers.
Journal article
The lived experiences and perspectives of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in mainstream employment in Australia
This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of nine individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) working in open (mainstream) employment in Australia. The findings highlight a gap in Australia’s current disability employment policy, particularly the Disability Employment Services funding model which incentivises short-term job placements over long-term career development.
Report
Fostering employment for people with intellectual disability: the evidence to date
This report brings together evidence to guide Inclusion Australia’s Everyone Can Work website, outlining research on factors that influence employment outcomes for people with intellectual disability. It summarises key influences, effective support programs, and outcomes in open employment. Overall, the research highlights clear mechanisms and individualised supports that help people with intellectual disability gain meaningful...
Journal article
Transitioning Australian Disability Enterprises to open employment community hubs using the Australian legislative framework
This article examines the transformation of Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) into inclusive, community-based employment hubs. The purpose is to explore how policy frameworks such as the Disability Services Act (1986), the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can support this transition toward open employment...
Report
What do people with intellectual disability think about their jobs and the support they receive at work?
This study focused on the perceptions and perspectives of people with intellectual disability working in open employment with support from Disability Employment Services (DES); supported employment through Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs); and social enterprise employment.