1. What is the Disability Employment Services (DES) program?
Answer: The DES program is an Australian Government initiative designed to help people with disabilities find and maintain employment.
It provides support to both job seekers and employers to ensure successful employment outcomes.
2. How can the DES program benefit my business?
Answer: The DES program can help your business by providing access to a diverse talent pool, offering financial incentives, and providing ongoing support to ensure successful employment outcomes.
This can lead to improved workplace diversity, enhanced company reputation, and potential financial benefits.
3. What types of support can I expect from DES providers?
Answer: DES providers such as APM offer a range of supports, including assistance with job design, workplace modifications, training for employees, and ongoing support for both employers and employees.
They can also help with accessing government funding and incentives.
4. Are there any financial incentives for hiring through the DES program?
Answer: Yes, there are several financial incentives available, such as wage subsidies, funding for workplace modifications, and assistance with training costs.
These incentives are designed to reduce hiring costs on employers and support the employment of people with disabilities.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
5. How do I get started with the DES program?
Answer: To get started, you can contact a DES provider like APM, who will guide you through the process of registering and accessing the available supports and services.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
6. What are my obligations as an employer under the DES program?
Answer: As an employer, you are expected to provide a safe and supportive work environment, comply with relevant employment laws, and work collaboratively with the DES provider to support the employee.
Your obligations may vary for each eligible employee. Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
7. Can I get help with workplace modifications?
Answer: Yes, the DES program provides support for workplace modifications to accommodate employees with disabilities.
This can include physical modifications, assistive technology, and other adjustments to ensure a safe and accessible work environment.
Your local APM team can help you access workplace modifications and any assessments needed.
8. How does ongoing support work in the DES program?
Answer: Ongoing support is tailored to the needs of both the employer and the employee.
It can include regular check-ins, additional training, and assistance with any issues that arise during employment.
This support aims to ensure long-term success and job retention. Learn more about ongoing support here.
9. What if the employment arrangement doesn’t work out?
Answer: If the employment arrangement is not successful, we will work with you and your employee to find a solution, which may include additional support, mediation, or finding a more suitable role for the employee.
If you have any issues with your arrangement, contact us as soon as possible and we’ll work with you to address them.
10. How can I provide feedback about the DES program?
Answer: You can provide feedback directly to your local APM team, or through our Contact us page on our website.
Your feedback is valuable for improving the program and ensuring it meets the needs of both employers and employees.
11. What are wage subsidies?
Answer: Wage subsidies are financial incentives provided by the Australian Government to encourage employers to hire eligible job seekers, including those with disabilities.
These subsidies help offset the initial costs of employment and support the integration of new employees into the workplace. For more information, visit our Wage Subsidies page.
12. How do I apply for wage subsidies?
Answer: To apply for wage subsidies, you need to work with your local APM team, who will guide you through the application process and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
13. What is the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF)?
Answer: The Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) provides financial assistance to employers for workplace modifications, assistive technology, and other supports needed to employ people with disabilities.
This fund helps create an accessible and inclusive workplace. Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
14. Can I get training for my staff to support employees with disabilities?
Answer: Yes, DES providers offer training and resources to help your staff support employees with disabilities.
This can include disability awareness training, job-specific training, and guidance on creating an inclusive workplace.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
15. What is the role of an employment consultant in the DES program?
Answer: APM employment consultants provide personalised support to employees with disabilities, helping them adjust to their new role, develop necessary skills, and address any challenges they may face.
They also work with you to ensure a smooth integration into your workplace. Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
16. How can I ensure my workplace is accessible?
Answer: Ensuring your workplace is accessible involves making physical modifications, providing assistive technology, and fostering an inclusive culture.
We can assist with assessments and recommendations to improve accessibility.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
17. What are the eligibility criteria for hiring through the DES program?
Answer: Eligibility criteria for hiring through the DES program include the job seeker’s disability status, their ability to work independently with support, and the employer’s commitment to providing a supportive work environment.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more about eligibility.
18. Can I hire part-time or casual employees through the DES program?
Answer: Yes, you can hire part-time or casual employees through the DES program. The program is flexible and can accommodate various employment arrangements to suit the needs of both the employer and the employee.
For more information, speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
19. How long does the support from a DES provider last?
Answer: The duration of support from our team varies based on your needs and the needs of your employee.
It can range from a few months to several years, with ongoing support available as needed to ensure successful employment outcomes.
Speak to your local APM team or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.
20. What if I have concerns about hiring someone with a disability?
Answer: If you have concerns about hiring someone with a disability, we can offer guidance, resources, and support to address your concerns and help you create a successful employment experience.
Learn more about hiring people with disability and the benefits your business can gain, here.
Have more questions?
Find your local APM team and drop in to see us, or call us on 1800 276 276 to learn more.