What is DES?

As a DES provider, we support both job seekers and employers across NSW. These DES services are provided at no cost to you. We deliver Disability Employment Services (DES) in partnership with CoAct – a not-for-profit and leading employment services provider.

CoAct knits together a network of not-for-profits from all over the country. They ensure we receive the latest in training and support, keeping standards and performance strong and driving innovation. Together, we transform lives through employment.

If you’re eligible for DES and looking to prepare for work, or just continuing your job search, you’re in the right place.

We can also support employers with sustainable recruitment, keeping skilled staff and building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

So, whether you’re looking to land a job that’s right for you, or looking to build a more inclusive work team, we’re here to help you every step of the way.  

I’m looking for a job, how can DES help me? 

Our team of Employment Specialists work closely with you to help you find the right job, with a focus on your skills and strengths. Together, we will create a Job Plan that meets your current needs and goals, improves your skills, or helps you learn something new. It’s about getting to know you and your story. 

The Job Plan is just the beginning of your journey – working side by side we create a rewarding experience to help you meet all your employment goals. 

As part of DES, we will support you to:  

1. Prepare your resume and write cover letters 
2. Search for jobs 
3. Access computers, printers and other technology to support your job search and preparation 
4. Develop your skills and help you access the latest courses or learning programs with financial support 
5. Prepare for job interviews including financial support for clothing 
6. Connect with our exclusive network of employers to help you succeed in your new job 
7. Arrange workplace modifications or additional supports such as counselling 
8. Help you stay employed once you start in your new role 

We’re ready to help today 

With over 30 offices across NSW, our DES team supports thousands of people looking for meaningful work each year.  

Our Employment Specialists will introduce you to employers who will value your contribution and your role in their business.  

So, if you’re keen to get started let us help you find the right job. Contact us. 

I’m an employer, how can DES help me? 

As an employer, you may want to hire a person with disability but are not sure where to start. Our team can help guide you through the recruitment process, supporting you to build a skilled and diverse team along the way.  

Within our established network of employers, many return to fill more jobs each year using our free professional services.  

As a government-funded DES provider, we can help to: 

• Source talent, work on retaining your staff and developing your workforce 
• Plan and design jobs that are suitable for different candidates with disability 
• Manage all your recruitment needs 
• Organise workplace assessments and modifications  
• Access wage subsidies 
• Develop learning sessions for your teams to improve awareness and build an inclusive culture 
• Support both you and your new employees once they start work and on an ongoing basis 
• We may also be able to support existing staff to maintain their employment through Work Assist

Why take part in the DES program? 

People with disability want to work but simply need to be given a chance. There are many benefits to employing people with disability, including: 

• Access to a broader talent pool that brings a diverse range of skills and abilities as well as new and valuable perspectives to the workplace 
• People with disability take fewer days off, take less sick leave and have a higher retention rate than other workers 
• Once in the right job, people with disability are just as productive as their team mates 
• Being a disability confident organisation means you are better able to communicate with customers with disability, enhancing customer service across your business 
• Improved corporate social responsibility where customers view businesses that hire people with disability more positively 
• Stronger workplace morale and productivity through a more committed and diverse workplace 

DES helps build a bridge between people and opportunities

Every person deserves a fair chance at meaningful employment. With this in mind, the DES program offers a wonderful bridge connecting people to desirable working opportunities through their funded programs. DES is one of several national funding schemes that makes our services possible.

Our Employment Specialists, with the help of DES, provide access to resources, individualised one-on-one assistance, tailored advice and guidance on how best to structure your approach to finding employment or staff. We also offer help with writing resumes or cover letters, honing in your interview techniques and providing workplace assistance, like therapy, throughout your job tenure.

Disability support and employment services

At Ability Options, we are a proud DES provider. We strive to ensure that people with disabilities have the same quality employment experience as everyone else — no matter what challenges or obstacles they may have faced up until now. 

We are firmly dedicated to helping people reach their long-term goals. Together, we guide individuals with disabilities to move independently on their paths to success.

Our commitment to you 

We will work with you to fully understand your staffing requirements and only recommend people that are right for your business. Ability Options will also provide ongoing job support for both you and your new staff member.

We don’t think of job placement as a one-time thing. Instead, our mission is based on the idea that following through and caring for you and your employee beyond the first meeting is a far more successful model. We aim to ensure you both feel supported while building your team for long-lasting success.

We’re ready to help today 

Our Employer Servicing Team is ready to work with you in finding your ideal candidates. Equipped with the tools and experience necessary to assist you through the hiring process, we prioritise understanding your unique needs so that we can identify suitable contenders for your organisation. 

Contact us on 1300 422 454., and let’s work together to find those perfect candidates and employers!