Starting out on her first day over 20 years ago with nothing but a handwritten scrap of paper and a request to turn it into a professional résumé, Hayley had no idea she was about to begin a career that would shape countless lives — including her own.
Employment support: What’s changed over time?
Over the years, Hayley has brought that same energy, compassion and attention to detail to every person she’s supported. And in that time, she’s seen the employment space change dramatically.
“There’s been a huge shift towards inclusive hiring,” she says. “Employers now see the value of a diverse workforce, and people with disability are getting access to mainstream roles instead of being pushed into limited options.”
She’s also seen workplace flexibility expand, technology transform the way people job-seek, and conversations around mental health become normal. But the biggest change was far more personal.
“The hardest moment of my career was losing the Disability Employment Services contract. DES wasn’t just a program to us — it was a community. Telling participants the service was ending was heartbreaking. They trusted us. And I loved that team.”
Despite the emotional toll, Hayley found comfort knowing her team landed safely in new roles, some staying with Ability Options.
And even after a loss that big, she kept going — because the work still mattered.
She recalls meeting a new client recently — a 62-year-old woman who broke down in tears the moment she walked in.
“She’d only known me for a few minutes, but she trusted me enough to share her story. Moments like that remind me that this job isn’t just about employment — it’s about connection, trust, and giving people a safe place when they feel overwhelmed.”
These moments, she says, are her “why”.
“Seeing someone get a forklift ticket, secure a job, or even just build the motivation to get out of bed and come see us — those wins matter. Watching someone realise they can do something they thought was impossible… that feeling never goes away.”
A new era for employment support
A new chapter began in November 2025 with the launch of Inclusive Employment Australia, designed to support people with disability, injury or health conditions to prepare for, find and maintain work, and build meaningful careers.
The program focuses on creating a simpler, more inclusive future by putting people at the centre — making things clearer for job seekers, employers and service providers alike.
And for Hayley, it’s been a renewal of purpose.
“I’m genuinely excited,” she says. “We’re meeting new clients every day and connecting with employers across new regions — Inner Sydney, the Inner West, St George–Sutherland, as well as continuing our work in Macarthur. It’s filled with possibilities.”
She’s energised by building a brand-new team, creating new ideas, and shaping the program alongside General Manager Karen Newman.
“This feels like a fresh chapter — full of opportunity for us and for the people we support.”
After nearly two decades, and through some of the biggest shifts in the sector, Hayley is still driven by the same thing she felt on day one: helping people reach their goals, one story at a time.
Now, as Ability Options approaches its 50th birthday, it’s stories like Hayley’s that show the heart behind the organisation — decades of people turning dreams, big or small, into real opportunities.
