Did you know you can receive Disability Employment Services support for mental illness?

08 November 2023

Did you know you can receive Disability Employment Services support for mental illness?

If you’re looking for work and living with a mental health condition, depression or anxiety, CoAct can help you find and keep a job.

Disability Employment Services (also known as DES) helps people living with disability, injury or illness, including mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety find work and stay employed. It’s a government program and CoAct is one of Australia’s leading DES providers. 

We support many people living with mental health issues, including job seekers with:

  • mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar disorder)
  • anxiety disorders
  • personality disorders
  • psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia)
  • trauma-related disorders (such as post-traumatic stress disorder)

How DES can help someone living with mental illness, anxiety or depression find a job

Our specialised DES program goes beyond traditional employment support. Our team will work with you one-on-one to understand your specific needs, preferences, and employment goals. Through targeted training, mentorship, and ongoing support, we aim to empower you to navigate the job market confidently. From interview preparation to workplace integration, our goal is to ensure a smooth and successful transition into meaningful employment.

If you are eligible for DES, register with CoAct and we can support you with:
  • Building confidence and motivation to start (or continue) with your job search
  • Getting the training and qualifications you need
  • Helping connect you with local employers who understand your needs
  • Helping you to find and apply for jobs in your local community.

Who is eligible for DES?

Each of our programs has different eligibility criteria. You may be eligible for Disability Employment Services (DES) if you are:
  • living with a disability, mental health condition, treated illness or injury that makes it difficult to find and keep a job. This includes living with anxiety or depression, neurodivergence including ADHD and autism, a physical or intellectual disability, learning difficulties, visual or hearing impairment.
  • an Australian citizen or hold a permanent resident, or on a Temporary Protection, Special Category or Safe Haven Visa.
  • aged between 14 and 67.
  • able to work at least 8 hours per week and no more than 30. 
  • are receiving an income support payment.

Register your interest in DES here to find out more about how we can provide dedicated job search support and jobseeker programs to help you reach your employment goals.

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