Work Mates

Work Mates is a disability employment support program that helps people with a disability get ready for and thrive in the workplace.

We work with you one-on-one to help you build skills, set goals, and find the right path to long-term employment, all while supporting you with an empowering personalised plan.

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What Work Mates offers

Work Mates is designed to give practical and personalised support. We help you build confidence, explore what’s possible, and take steps towards meaningful work at your pace.

Support that builds confidence, connections and careers

The Work Mates process

Every participant is different, so the support you receive should be too.

That’s why Work Mates is delivered across four flexible phases, tailored to individual goals, needs and progress.

Some people will move through all four, while others might only need support for a specific task or moment. Regardless of the why, we’re here for all of our participants.

Phase 1

Foundations for success

We start by getting to know you: your strengths, interests, and goals.

From there, we help you improve your communication skills, work through any barriers to employment, and create a clear plan forward.

Phase 2

Job readiness

This is where we get hands-on and practical.

You will prepare your resume, develop interview skills, explore job options, and get real-world experience through supported work placements.

Phase 3

Stepping into work

We support you to find and transition into employment while teaching workplace safety and providing on-the-job coaching to help you settle in, stay confident and succeed long term.

Phase 4

Ad hoc support

Work Mates offers flexible, short-term support for people who are already employed or preparing for a new opportunity.

Whether it’s help with completing training, learning a new skill, or staying confident in the workplace, we provide practical and personalised support.

What makes Work Mates unique

STEPS Work Mates is more than just a standard training program. We go above and beyond to offer personalised, wraparound support that grows with you, even as your goals and circumstances change.

Whether you’ve never been employed, need help developing your skills further, or are looking for guidance as you find a long-term role, we’re here to help.

Flexible, personalised support

We tailor every journey to fit the you, not the other way around.

Real-life learning

Everything we teach connects directly to real workplaces, opportunities and expectations.

Workplace exposure

Through supervised placements and business connections, you will gain valuable insight into different industries and roles.

Ongoing collaboration

We work with families, schools, Inclusive Employment Australia providers and others to ensure holistic and consistent support.

We don’t stop at ‘job ready’

Your support doesn’t stop if you secure employment, we continue to work with you to help you stay on track and keep growing.

Why Work Mates is the right fit

STEPS Work Mates is designed for people with a disability and autism who want support to find work, grow their skills, and become a confident professional.

If the person you’re supporting is looking for practical and individualised help at any stage of their employment journey, STEPS Work Mates is the perfect match.

Funding options

Participants can access Work Mates through NDIS funding, including:

Finding and Keeping a Job
School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)
Increased Social and Community Participation
Core Supports in Employment

Alternatively, Work Mates can be accessed fee-for-service (self-funded).

If you’re unsure which avenue is right for you or how the funding works, our friendly team is here to talk it through and help you understand your option.