Program includes 'support to employers to feel more confident in employing people with disability'
The Western Australia government is joining hands with the state's private sector to improve employment outcomes for people with a disability.
Disability Services Minister Don Punch announced on Friday a $300,000 investment to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA (CCIWA) to fund a 12-month pilot programme aimed at helping more businesses employ people with disability.
"The Cook Government is keen to work in partnership with private sector industries and businesses to increase employment for people with disability, including support to employers to feel more confident in employing people with disability," Punch said in a statement.
Chris Rodwell, CCIWA chief executive officer, added that the programme will "clear the barriers" holding employees back from hiring people with disabilities.
"It will aim to determine better ways to connect WA businesses with people with disabilities who are looking for work by identifying skills gaps and providing specialised support to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce," Rodwell said in a statement.
"Crucially, it will identify and clarify the support and resources available to small- and medium-sized businesses who have told us they'd like to hire people with disabilities but are not sure where to start."
Benefits for employers
Meanwhile, both officials also underscored the opportunity that comes with hiring people with disability.
"In a tight labour market, this is an opportune time for businesses to consider hiring people with disability - a talent pool of people who are actively seeking inclusive and diverse employers," Punch said.
Rodwell added that businesses that excel in disability engagement are "more profitable, their staff are happier, and their customers are more loyal."
"It's not just the right thing to do, it's the smart thing to do for businesses," Rodwell said.
The pilot programme is aligned with the state government's commitment to its vision of "A Western Australia for Everyone: State Disability Strategy 2020-2030," which is a pledge to support people with disability in finding meaningful and sustainable employment.
