Dionysia’s Story: From study to employment opportunity
Determination, one step at a time CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Southport is proud to celebrate the success of Dionysia, a customer who has shown incredible determination and resilience […]
Corenna’s story: Journey to a Customer Experience Coordinator
Rebuilding after a life-changing setback Corenna’s recent commencement as a Customer Experience Coordinator at CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work marks a significant milestone in a career journey defined by […]
Christian’s story: A journey to becoming a trainer and assessor
A clear goal and a realistic pathway When Christian commenced with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work he was presenting with multiple barriers to employment. Despite these challenges, Christian demonstrated […]
Nathan’s story: A journey to an MR/HR driver opportunity
Facing barriers head-on When Nathan first connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Mount Isa, he had been actively looking for work for some time but faced ongoing challenges […]
Renee’s Story: A journey to confidence and opportunity
Building momentum, one step at a time When Renee first met with her team at CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work, she was a devoted single mother and primary carer […]
Kerry story: Her journey from Community Solutions to IMPACT Community Services
A fresh start, and a clearer view of what’s possible When Kerry first connected with Community Solutions (CSG), she was navigating a stressful and uncertain chapter in her life. What […]
Mindi’s story: Strength, resilience and new beginnings
A journey shaped by determination Mindi connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work feeling lost and emotionally exhausted, having recently left an unsafe home situation. Her priority was clear. […]
Oliver’s story: from feeling overlooked to full-time work
Feeling overlooked and ready for a change Oliver connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work feeling overlooked and frustrated. He had been applying for job after job without landing […]
Coral-Lee’s story: a job that fits around family
Balancing family and the job search Coral-Lee connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work determined to find steady work close to home. As the main carer for her son, […]
Clint’s story: Finding the will to change
When Clint first connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Southport, life felt uncertain and overwhelming. He knew he wanted things to be different, but staying consistent was hard […]
NAIDOC Week 2026: Sometimes the best opportunities start with a simple conversation
Eboni from CoAct Connect + Five Bridges took the initiative to reach out to Queensland Corrective Services (QCS), not to fill a vacancy, but to explore something bigger. She wanted […]
Strong. Proud. Deadly. Celebrating 50 years of NAIDOC.
NAIDOC Week 2026 | 5 – 12 July This week, Australia celebrates NAIDOC Week, a time to honour the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. […]
Why staying committed to inclusion is always worth it
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, it is worth reflecting on what genuine, lasting commitment to inclusion actually looks like, and why it matters so much when organisations […]
Seeing the whole person: supporting LGBTQIA+ employees who also live with disability
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, we celebrate identity in all its richness and complexity. And for many Australians, that complexity means navigating more than one aspect of […]
Every person deserves to feel safe at work, here is how we make that happen
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, we celebrate the strength, diversity and identity of people LGBTQIA+ people living with a disability. It is also a moment to ask […]
Building workplaces where LGBTQIA+ people with a disability are protected and supported
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, we want to talk about something that goes hand in hand with celebration: protection. Feeling proud of who you are matters. But […]
Five things employers can do right now to make LGBTQIA+ employees feel welcome
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, we want to focus on action. Because while the data on LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion, including those living with a disability, it is […]
Belonging at work, what the research tells us and what we can do about it
During the month of July, Disability Pride Month, we want to talk about belonging. Not just in a general sense, but what it actually feels like to belong at work, […]
The invisible disability: Matthew’s story of working with chronic pain
For many people living with disability, obtaining some form of employment, even if it is voluntary work, can make a huge difference to their mental health. Matthew*, a client of […]
Not about perfection, it’s about direction: Bradford’s story
Meet Bradford Feo, Recruitment Partner at CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work. Bradford works at the intersection of job seekers, employers and employment consultants building trust on all sides and […]
Building something strong from the ground up: Jenna’s story
Meet Jenna Morrish, General Manager of Disability Employment and Training at IMPACT Community Services and one of the driving forces behind IMPACT’s work in the Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) space. […]
From participant to senior mentor: Liam’s journey
Meet Liam Hill, Senior Mentor at CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work and the 2026 winner of CoAct’s Steve Lawrence Employment Consultant of the Year Award. Liam works with jobseekers […]
Fenti steps forward with confidence
When Fenti connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work, she was going through a very challenging period in her life. Finding work felt hard to imagine. Transport was difficult, […]
Thomas finds his way back to work he loves
When Thomas connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work, he knew he wanted to get back into work he cared about. Like many people, the years after COVID had […]
Building confidence and a fresh start
Finding her way forward When Amna connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Southport, she was at a turning point. Her previous job had ended, and as a dedicated […]
From backyard haircuts to scholarships and startups: A chat with Mo, CoAct Youth Ambassador
Mo Alizadeh is a young Logan-based entrepreneur and community builder working across grooming, fashion, tech and social enterprise. He launched his first venture, LocalBlendz, at 15 and has since founded […]
Meet Jasmine: backing yourself, finding your people, and turning passion into a pathway
Jasmine Watson is a facilitator at the Australian School of Entrepreneurship (ASE), where she connects, empowers and inspires participants through interactive learning, community engagement and personal development activities that foster […]
Mark finds his way forward
At 56, Mark has a lifetime of experience behind him. He has lived and worked across Europe and built a strong set of skills along the way. But after a […]
Inez steps back into the workforce
Inez connected with CoAct Connect + Community Solutions ready for a new chapter. After spending the last 10 years raising her children, she was keen to get back into work. […]
Jamie’s decision to turn things around
Jamie was referred to Community Solutions after a long period without work. During that time, he was also dealing with personal challenges. It was a tough period, but Jamie made […]
Toni takes a chance on a new direction
Changing careers later in life can feel overwhelming. After years away from job searching, the process can seem confusing and stressful. For Toni, this was exactly how it felt. She […]
Violet sets her sights on a career in construction
Violet came to CoAct Connect + Community Solutions as a young job seeker with a clear goal. She wanted to build a future in the trade and construction industry. After […]
Lauren’s story – Finding her way back
When Lauren connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Gold Coast, she was not feeling like herself. She had been out of work since late 2020 and had lost […]
Seaorni’s goal to get back on his feet
Seaorni started with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Browns Plains in August 2025. At the time, he was facing serious barriers to employment. He was dealing with personal challenges […]
Jaycom finds steady support in Beenleigh
When Jaycom connected with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Beenleigh in mid 2025, he was facing serious barriers to employment. He was living with severe depression and anxiety, which […]
Ben takes a big step forward
Ben’s journey to employment has not been easy. When he first connected with CoAct Connect + Community Solutions Maryborough for support, he was facing a range of serious challenges. These […]
Craig sets a goal and backs himself
Craig joined CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Aitkenvale in July 2022 with a clear goal. He wanted a casual or part time job. From the start, he showed determination […]
Aaron’s new start from Karragarra Island
Aaron has been a registered customer with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Cleveland for a long time. He really wanted to work, but it had been hard to find […]
Brendan ready for a new start in Agnes
When Brendan first connected with CoAct Connect + Community Solutions in Agnes, he was keen to work and build a better routine. He wanted a real job where he could […]
Anne Maree’s fresh start in Gladstone
For years, Anne Maree tried different jobs and always gave it her all. But finding the right long-term role was not easy. Some jobs were too physical, and being a […]
Paul’s big goal to help others
When Paul first connected with CoAct Connect + Community Solutions, he already had a clear plan for his future. He is passionate about helping people and wanted a job that […]
Nicole’s story: A Queensland first in Toowoomba
CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Toowoomba has reached a big milestone. It has become the first provider in Queensland to place a customer through the new Real Jobs Real […]
Teisha’s story of strength, support and a fresh start
Finding the courage to change Teisha’s journey over the past year is nothing short of inspiring. Not long ago, she was facing challenges that felt overwhelming. Life was difficult, and […]
Dylan’s fresh start in Aitkenvale
When Dylan first linked in with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Aitkenvale, he was ready for a steady job again. He had been unemployed for some time which had […]
Mason finds his pathway into meaningful work
At 25 years old, Mason had never been able to find employment, even though he held a Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology. Living out of town without a car […]
Corina’s story: a licence to thrive
Corina is a mum who’s been part of CoAct Connect + Five Bridges since 2023. Like many parents, she found it hard to juggle raising kids and keeping steady work. […]
Shane’s comeback: the power of support, mentorship and a fresh start
After more than two years without work, supporting a large family and feeling options slipping away, Shane wasn’t sure where to begin. That all changed the moment he connected with […]
Finding strength in support: Shaquill’s journey begins
Shaquill is a proud young Bundjalung man, with deep family ties to Yuin Country. Growing up in the Northern Rivers, it was clear early on that Shaquill had the determination […]
Jeneya’s story: uncertainty to industry success
How Jeneya secured her dream job At the start of 2025, Jeneya was unemployed and unsure of where life was heading. As a single mum, she carried the heavy responsibility […]
Mark’s story: from caring at home to a career in support
A new chapter begins For more than 14 years, Mark put his own life on hold to care for his elderly mum. Every day was about making sure she was […]
May’s story: turning opportunity into action
May joined CoAct Connect + Five Bridges in 2025 and straight away showed she was ready to make changes. She was keen to overcome challenges, set goals, and build a […]
A new beginning: Gary’s courage to try again
Gary, a proud Indigenous man from Rockhampton, had been long-term unemployed. At 65, he thought his age and extended time away from the workforce made finding a job nearly impossible. […]
Slayde’s story: from unsure to unstoppable
Finding direction and support At the start of the year, Slayde wasn’t sure what to do next. He was considering an apprenticeship or maybe joining the military, but with little […]
The minimum wage is increasing in July: what jobseekers need to know
If you’re looking for a job or thinking about starting work soon, there’s some good news. From 1 July 2025, the national minimum wage in Australia is going up by […]
Alex’s journey into meaningful work
CoAct is a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider (now Inclusive Employment Australia provider) that specialises in supporting people with sensory impairments. Our goal is to help people with vision impairment […]
Simone’s story: from stay-at-home Mum to confident job seeker
When Simone first reached out to CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Mount Isa, she was ready to make a change. A stay-at-home Mum with no prior work experience, she […]
Elliott’s journey: turning challenges into opportunities
For Elliott, a proud resident of Woorabinda, finding meaningful employment hasn’t always been easy. With limited reading and writing skills, securing and keeping a job was a challenge. But thanks […]
Andrew learns that age doesn’t have to be a barrier to finding work
When Andrew first met with the team at Ability Options Castle Hill, he believed that no-one would want to hire him because of his age, but all he needed was […]
Thomas’ journey to meaningful employment
Thomas’ journey with CoAct + Ability Options has helped him gain independence and confidence in his role at Impulse Purchase Specialists. With personalised support from his Workforce Partner, Courtney, Thomas […]
Brent’s story of meaningful, sustained employment
Brent‘s story of finding the right workplace and supports has given him a sense of purpose and achievement. Living and working in Bowen Brent is 39 years old and lives […]
Jonathan gains his independence with a little help from CoAct
At 19 years old, Jonathan was ready to head out into the world of employment. The Disability Employment Services team at CoAct Connect Stones Corner helped him do just that. […]
From homeless to hope: how IEA saved Shane’s life
Shane’s journey of complex, long-term challenges shows how the right support can change lives for the better. Shane has faced more challenges than most when it comes to finding a […]
Thriving with MS: Manoli’s story of achieving sustainable work with MS Queensland
Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can make the path to sustainable work challenging, but with the right support, it’s achievable. Meet Manoli, a self-employed father and IT business owner who […]
Intensive support helps Ethin find meaningful work
With the right specialist support, Ethin found a job, some much needed confidence, and a whole new career path with room for progression. When Christeen from CoAct/Ability Options Liverpool first […]
Chris forges a new future for himself
When Chris was declared legally blind at the age of 30, he needed to find a new career path. The team at CoAct Victoria Park gave him the support he […]
Michael’s story: The right support to thrive at work
Michael moved from Murray Bridge in South Australia to Canberra in 2019. The move was to start an exciting Graduate Program with the ACT Government. Michael was eager to build […]
From volunteer to vocation: Jamie’s full circle moment
Jamie accessed employment services supports through CoAct service partner Ability Options. Anyone familiar with Bellingen Golf Club is familiar with Club All Rounder Jamie who works with the club crew […]
Employer spotlight: Youth Projects x Staff Australia
In August 2022 CoAct service partner Youth Projects embarked on a innovative partnership with Staff Australia to create opportunities for young people seeking meaningful employment. About Staff Australia Since 1999, […]
World Braille Day: Khan’s employment journey
Khan’s experience shows the practical value of braille in the modern workplace, recognises the amazing support provided by Khan’s employer, as well as the wraparound services provided by CoAct service […]
BUSY Ability Team Leader Joanne shares her lived experience of working with disability
BUSY Ability is a CoAct service partner providing disability employment services that help people with disability find sustainable employment that suits their individual needs. December 3 is International Day of […]
Patricia shares her lived experience of working with disability
BUSY Ability is a CoAct service partner providing disability employment services that help people with disability find sustainable employment that suits their individual needs. December 3 is International Day of […]
Thi’s story of finding employment is the beginning of a whole new chapter
CoAct helps people with disability across Australia find sustainable work that suits their individual needs. Solutions for Thi’s challenges How CoAct and our service partners can help When Thi was […]
The future is Bright for Lachlan following intensive support
Lachlan had been in the DES program (now Inclusive Employment Australia) with CoAct for 85 weeks receiving support with his resume, his interview technique, and reverse marketing. Lachlan is a […]
What a star! Kelly leverages previous experience
After over 12 months of unemployment, Kelly’s confidence had taken a hit. She was committed to finding work, but unsure where to start. Kelly was referred to the team at […]
The foundation for Rebecca’s beauty business was set at her very first interview
CoAct service partner BUSY At Work helped Rebecca start her own business. Contact us if you’re in a similar situation, our team and network are here to help. This good […]
Andy is now a teacher’s aide – a lesson on finding the right fit
CoAct service Partner Youth Projects helped single mum Andy find work that worked for her. Contact us if you’re in a similar situation, our team and network are here to […]
Service partner spotlight: Youth Projects employment consultant Amanda Baker
Amanda received the Highly Commended award for Employment Consultant of the Year at the NESA awards for excellence. The National Employment Services Association (NESA) has been the peak body for […]
Marcus lands a tidy new role straight out of school
CoAct and service partner VisAbility’s support young people with disability to find work that suits their individual needs when they finish high school education. VisAbility is a CoAct service partner […]
Chris’s drive to find work that works with fibromyalgia
Chris had not worked since 2018 due to health issues, now he’s completed six months training at Maccas Farm and learned a whole new set of skills. Chris is a […]
Richard’s recruitment team loved him so much they’ve snapped him up for themselves
Richard is a 24-year-old young man who did not think he would ever be able to work, due to his medical conditions. Richard has been living with rheumatoid arthritis since […]
Jason’s heartwarming motivation to work his way out of long-term unemployment and into a new job
Interact customer Jason had been unemployed for 12 months when they stepped in to help him find a new role. Jason had been employed as a long-term full-time carer when […]
Travis’ career path in the automotive industry
Interact customer Travis was working at a job that didn’t fit with his needs as a person living with ADHD and ASD – he was also being underpaid. Thanks to […]
Sharni’s journey took her from navigating lockdowns to loving her new job
This story discusses sensitive topics that some viewers may find distressing. If this story raises any issues for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Sharni was seeking a […]
Freya stayed the course despite the obstacles
Freya was ready to return to work after recovering from a significant shoulder injury. Freya’s injury had stopped her from lifting her arm and, although she was on the road […]
Jay’s story: From Tasmania to Canberra in pursuit of his dreams
Jay lived in Tasmania until he secured a new role in Canberra and moved interstate – and he did all of this with cerebral palsy. Jay is an Interact customer […]
Ethon’s story is a roadmap for getting back on track
Ethon recently started working with CoAct service partner BUSY At Work to find a new job he enjoys that fits well with his individual needs. Ethon’s story includes chapters where […]
Jason breaks down barriers to follow his path
Jason is a customer at Five Bridges Woodridge and he’s proven to be a huge success and inspiration for the team as well as his peers. Jason faced many transport […]
Nothing could stop Panisara working towards her goals
Panisara’s recruitment partner at MS Queensland describes her as a hardworking lady who’s been managing her MS symptoms while trying to find sustainable employment that suits her needs. Panisara (aka […]
Customer success story: Herbert found his Voice and his vocation
CoAct Connect customer Herbert joined the Ready Set Go program, with guest presenter AFL legend Simon Black. The Ready Set Go program The Ready Set Go Program is designed to […]
Customer success story: Sally found her purpose at Stones Corner
CoAct Connect customer Sally signed up for the Ready Set Go program, with AFL legend Simon Black attending as a guest presenter. The Ready Set Go program The Ready Set […]
Sydney’s success story: a lesson in committing to achieving goals
When I was first introduced to Coact Connect I felt unsure about beginning the unknown process of finding a new job. I thought it might feel like ‘jumping through hoops’ […]
Customer success story: Lewis finds his perfect fit
Meet Lewis, a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) customer on a Disability Support Pension (DSP) who receives intensive support from his employment services team at Community Solutions. Lewis is a […]
NRL legend Joel Thompson inspires Henry to achieve his goals
CoAct service partner Five Bridges held a job club event with guest speaker NRL legend Joel Thompson and the results have been life changing. 21 lucky customers attended the Five […]
Three customer success stories: Five Bridges build bridges for Donna, Kenneth & John
Five Bridges is a not-for-profit South-East Queensland based organisation that’s passionate about assisting local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with barriers to employment. Five Bridges is a CoAct service […]
A second chance for Elizabeth
Getting back into work when you have a mental illness can seem daunting. But a strong support network can help get you on the right track and give you the […]
What exactly does a Recruitment Partner do? We talk to Chess Connect team member Talara
Chess Connect is a Coact Employment service partner and a not-for-profit human service organisation that provides a range of specialist Employment, NDIS and Workplace Wellbeing supports. Former recruitment partner Talara […]
Thomas sews up a job in no time
At the end of Year 10, Thomas was keen to leave school and find out about the type of jobs and opportunities available in his local area. Determined to succeed […]
Donna left her comfort zone and ended up cow cuddling for a living
The best piece of advice I can offer to job seekers, especially those with mental health barriers, is to not be afraid to try something new. It may change your […]
3 moves that helped Eian end 3 years of unemployment
After a turbulent few years that saw him survive cancer, and the loss of his father and brother, Eian’s now back on track with a new job and an action […]
The word no motivated Joshua to strive for the ultimate yes
Meet Joshua, a 21 year old young man who was born with microphthalmos and sclerocornea. Complications that resulted in vision impairment in both of his eyes since birth and led […]