AccessAbility Day links people with disability and employers

AccessAbility Day will run from 26-30 November, connecting employers and people with disability, while increasing awareness, understanding and acceptance of a diverse workforce.

It aims to give people with disability an insight into a particular type of work or industry and employers a chance to experience having a person with disability in the workplace.

A Department of Social Services spokesperson says the national initiative is an opportunity to address the fact Australians with disability are under-represented in the workforce.

“AccessAbility Day is a great opportunity for people with disability and employers to connect and experience what each has to offer.”

This year will mark AccessAbility Day’s official launch, following a successful pilot last year.

“The 2017 pilot was considered a resounding success with more than 240 employers registering to host more than 440 people with disability in their workplace for a day over eight pilot locations,” the spokesperson says.

Minister for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP is encouraging people with disability and employers to get involved.

“For employers, it’s an opportunity to see the potential of a person with disability in their workplace and for people with disability to gain an insight into a workplace or types of employment and establish valuable contacts,” he says.

He says it’s also a chance to get first-hand, personal experience without a commitment beyond the day.

“I encourage local businesses and people with disability to take advantage of this opportunity to explore new experiences and possibilities in the workplace and take part in AccessAbility Day.”

To participate, people with disability must be registered with a Disability Employment Services provider who will facilitate an AccessAbility Day placement with an interested employer in the area.

For more information, visit the AccessAbility Day website.