Hiring People With Disabilities: ICS Service Solutions Case Study
When Glen found himself confronted with his own bias about recruiting people with disabilities he took action to make the changes he wanted to see in the world and, in turn, […]
5 Common Job Scam Examples and How to Avoid Them
Job scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and as a job seeker, it’s crucial to know the warning signs. Scammers often prey on people’s eagerness to find work, luring them in […]
Resume Clean-Up Guide: What to Delete for a Better Job Search
Your resume is your first opportunity to make a strong impression on potential employers. However, some information can hurt your chances of landing an interview. Streamlining your resume by removing […]
How to use Linkedin to find a job: Tips and best practice
In today’s digital world, job searching is much more than sending out resumes. Your online presence matters, and LinkedIn is a crucial part of that. Whether you’re looking for your […]
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. […]
Disclosing Mental Health Conditions to Your Employer: 6 Points to Consider
If you struggle with your mental health, you’re not alone. Recent studies show that 1 in 5 adults will experience mental health issues in any given year, and 44% will […]
Job Carving for Job Seekers
What is job carving? Job carving is the act of designing, adjusting or personalising a job role so that the position can be more successfully performed by the person doing […]
From homeless to hope: how DES 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 […]
Forrest Personnel joins CoAct network strengthening employment services across Western Australia
MEDIA RELEASE, 2 September 2024. CoAct is excited to welcome WA’s leading community employment specialist, Forrest Personnel, to its national network of not-for-profit service partners. As of 2 September 2024, […]
Upcoming Webinar: AI and online applications
With the rise of AI in recruitment, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations invites you to an insightful webinar on how AI is reshaping the hiring process and what […]
2024 NAIDOC Week Events Near You
Celebrated across Australia from July 7 – July 14, NAIDOC Week celebrates the culture, history and many accomplishments of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This year’s theme “Keep the […]
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/VisAbility 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 […]
Our Customer Advisory Committee has launched
CoAct is thrilled to launch our Customer Advisory Committee (CAC). Our first meeting was held recently with five of our advisory members in attendance. The CAC will enhance the CoAct […]
Dealing with depression while trying to find a job: Tips & support
When you’re dealing with depression the smallest tasks can feel insurmountable, so we completely understand why searching for a job may not be the top of your priority list. But […]
Re-entering the workforce with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Re-entering the workforce after an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) can be an important milestone that helps you regain a sense of purpose and identity. For some people, returning to their […]
Working or finding a job with Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease – an inflammatory bowel disease affecting the digestive tract – is invisible and unpredictable, which can make it especially difficult to deal with at work, but with a […]
7 ways we can support you in your job search
Job hunting with a disability doesn’t need to be a daunting task. CoAct can help you map out your pathway to work, supporting you through the entire process. We understand […]
How to write a resume when you have limited or no work experience
In the competitive world of job hunting, having little or no work experience can feel daunting. Whether you’re a school leaver, a parent re-entering the workforce or someone who has […]
How much can I earn on the DSP?
Did you know you can work part-time and still receive the Disability Support Pension, also known as the DSP? If you get the DSP, you can have paid work up […]
DES: Frequently Asked Questions
What are Disability Employment Services (DES)? How can Disability Employment Services (DES) help me get work ready? Who is eligible for Disability Employment Services? I have never worked before. I […]
Why choose CoAct as your employment services provider?
At CoAct, we start with you. We help people find a job they enjoy and want to stay in. With a network of teams in over 270 locations, CoAct is […]
Feb 4 is World Cancer Day
The theme for World Cancer Day 2024 is “Close the Care Gap”. World Cancer Day 2024 has a strong focus on the power of working together. As an employment services […]
Job seekers living with cancer could be eligible for Disability Employment Services
Living with cancer can present many challenges, including finding and keeping work – here’s how CoAct can help. The Australian government offers support to people with disability who are looking […]
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 […]
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 […]
January 4th is World Braille Day
World Braille Day Every year on January 4th, the world comes together to observe World Braille Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the life-changing impact of braille for people living […]
IDPWD: What is International Day of People with Disability?
What is IDPWD What is IDPWD in Australia The International Day of People With Disability theme for 2023 The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals How CoAct can help December […]
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 service partner MTC Australia helps people with disability across Australia find sustainable work that suits their individual needs. MTC Australia’s solutions for Thi’s challenges How CoAct and our service […]
The future is Bright for Lachlan following intensive support from the Interact team
Lachlan had been in the DES program with CoAct service partner Interact for 85 weeks receiving support with his resume, his interview technique, and reverse marketing. Lachlan is a young […]
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 […]
How young jobseekers can build out their resumes
Are you a young job seeker looking to build out your resume? There are ways around this though and the solution begins with looking at all possible previous work experiences, […]
Networking for women: how to build a professional community
Here are some strategies and approaches to help you build a productive and potentially professional network. Join networking groups for women There are many networking groups and online communities that […]
A job seeker’s guide to disclosing an injury at a job interview
Job interviews can be stressful, and if you have an injury or health condition, working in how to discuss it during the interview can make it even more challenging. This […]
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 […]
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 […]
CoAct becomes a bronze member of The Australian Network on Disability
CoAct, a leading Disability Employment Services provider, is proud to announce its new membership status with the Australian Network on Disability, solidifying its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse […]
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 […]
Interact gave Travis a roadmap to a 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 […]
Recite Me Tool – Digital Accessibility on CoAct.org.au
Recite Me Web Accessibility and Language Toolbar Recite Me is innovative cloud-based software that lets visitors view and use our website in a way that works best for them. We’ve […]
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 […]
Navigating Job Search Stress: Discover the Stress Bucket Tool
If you’re currently experiencing the overwhelming weight of job search stress, you’re not alone. Stress is a common companion on this path, and it’s essential to find effective ways to […]
Anxiety in the workplace: Employers breaking the stigma
Many people experience anxiety to some degree with symptoms and effects ranging from mild to debilitating. So, how do we find the support we need and identify employers who are […]
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 […]
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 […]
Kmart and Target are hiring for Christmas 2023
Kmart Kmart is looking for people to join them across Australia to “help build the future of retail.” “We celebrate your uniqueness and individuality. Because at Kmart it’s not just […]
Meet the Disability Employment Services Team at CoAct Connect Stones Corner
“This will be CoAct’s first DES direct delivery site and it will run alongside our Workforce Australia Program, also located at Stones Corner. This new DES site will provide employment […]
Ability Options Strengthens Partnership with CoAct Network
This strengthened collaboration kicks off on the 19th of August, and will serve Greater Western Sydney, Northern Sydney, the Hunter, and Nepean NSW regions. This partnership underscores the mutual commitment […]
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 […]
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 […]
Customer success story: Supporting Manoli to support himself
Our service partners MS Queensland have been supporting Manoli since 2018, managing his MS symptoms so he can stay self-employed. Meet Manolo Manoli is described as a self-starter by his […]
What exactly is Multiple sclerosis – and how can it affect you finding or keeping a job?
Living with MS Signs and symptoms of MS can be different for each person affected by it, depending on how seriously damaged the nerve fibres are and where they’re located […]
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 […]
Mature-age workers: Why it’s never too late to learn new skills
Picking up new skills can be intimidating, but your ability to learn new skills just comes down to motivation and it’s never (ever!) too late to get started on learning […]
Living with autism? Five career choices to start you thinking
If you’re a job seeker on the autism spectrum, you’ll likely have some great, valuable skills that employers are looking for. But sometimes the hard part can be knowing what […]
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 […]
What funding is available to employers hiring people with disability?
In April 2023 the Australian government announced new funding for employers recruiting, hiring and retaining people with disability. Australians living with disability and their employers are now eligible for a […]
The 10 best jobs when changing careers after a major injury
If you or someone you know experiences a workplace accident or injury it could mean no longer being able to work in a current trade and having to change careers. […]
The right mentors can open new doors
Ricki’s Story Ricki is a 58 year old gentleman who moved to Mackay and changed DES (disability employment services) providers in the hopes of a more successful job search. Ricki […]
5 tips for job hunting with disability
Take a look at our top 5 job search tips, especially for people with disability, and let us connect you to community services for the tailored support you need. 5 tips […]
How to get IT equipment on a budget and avoid financial stress in 2023
Upgrading your devices is a strategic part of sticking to your new year’s resolutions and whether you’re looking for a new job or prepping a kid for their first year […]
How to manage stress & anxiety during the holiday season
What seems like a time of joy, family, feasts and parties can be the complete opposite behind closed doors, and that disconnect between expectations for the holiday season and the […]
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 […]
International Day of People with Disability 2022
Join CoAct in celebrating International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) on Saturday 3rd December 2022. IDPwD aims to increase awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. It’s a […]
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 […]
Rachel wears her Kmart employee 10-year name badge with pride
Rachel has been receiving support from CoAct/Community Solutions Mackay for the last 10 years. She has permanent hearing loss and needs regular ongoing support to stay in work. We’ve been […]
Guide to transferring DES providers
The Disability Employment Services (DES) program lets people choose how they want to get help and who they want it from. Here are the key reasons why participants in the […]
Change the Story: Nationwide storytelling project
Change the Story is a Nationwide storytelling project that has been running since 2018. The goal of Change the Story has been to help shift the thinking of individuals, employers, and […]
Anothai takes what he’s learned in his studies to a new hospitality role
Anothai enjoyed studying hospitality at high school but was at risk of not finishing Year 12. His school recommended that CoAct support him to get work experience and find a […]
Take on work trials and work experience to find a role you’ll love
Do you have little or no work experience in the field you want to work in? Or, have you not worked for a long time? If so, it might be […]
Chelsea builds confidence with paid work while designing her dream career
With support from Lucinda at CoAct / Community Solutions Prosperine, Chelsea scored a job that works for her. Living with ASD, she wanted a job with limited people contact. Her […]
Brett’s new Landscape Labourer role is just what he was looking for
Health challenges meant that Brett had needed to leave several jobs that he physically couldn’t sustain. He lives with arthritis in his fingers and tinnitus in his ears and had […]
Dusting off 12-year-old qualifications to start his IT career
Ben left school in 2003. After going through different programs of support through various providers for 7 years or so, Ben decided to undertake a Diploma in IT. Ben graduated […]
Troy’s “a bucket of sunshine” to work with
What’s that saying about it all happening at once? Troy was recovering from a heart attack, experiencing housing problems and financial struggles. With the help of Lucinda, an employment consultant […]
Trusting your employment consultant: Austin’s story
Confidence in your employment services provider and team of employment consultants is crucial. If you have a good relationship with your employment consultant, you’ll feel more comfortable talking to them […]
Jamie’s world opens up as he transitions from supported employment to open employment
Those eligible for the NDIS can get access to quality support services to live life to the fullest through sustainable employment. This includes looking at ways for people to effectively […]
When depression affects work performance
According to Better Health, the signs or symptoms of work-related stress can be physical, psychological and behavioural. Physical symptoms of depression include fatigue, muscular tension, headaches, heart palpitations, sleeping difficulties, […]
When anxiety stops you from working: 3 new roles to consider
According to the Black Dog Institute, anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia. Up to one-third of women and one-fifth of men will experience anxiety at some […]
CoAct’s unique collaboration wins new Workforce Australia contracts
CoAct has proven their unique approach to helping jobseekers is a winner. The leading not-for-profit provider has been awarded multiple licences to deliver the Australian Government’s new Workforce Australia program. […]
The Top 3 Jobs for People with Disability in Australia
Along with our network of trusted local community partners, we helped 1,340 people into employment, across Australia. This is an increase of over 30 percent on the previous year and […]
Applying for a job as an Individual Support Worker? Here’s our top tips
What are the top skills and accreditation employers are looking for in Individual Support Workers? Good literacy and numeracy (for example, to calculate a medication dosage) Current First Aid Certificate […]
Applying for a job as an Administrator or Administrative Assistant?
Administrators carry out a range of tasks in an office or workplace. Their role varies depending on the organisation, but essential skills are being organised and a good communicator. The […]
Applying for a job as a Sales Assistant? Here’s how to build an application to impress
Many sales assistant roles don’t ask for qualifications or experience. Instead, an employer will want to know if you’re capable of the typical tasks and have the right customer service […]
Taking a chance pays off for Zen and his employer
Zen left school early with no clear idea of what work he wanted to get into. He has a cognitive learning disability. He was referred to the Disability Employment Services […]
Planning, pivoting and persistence pays off for Kieran
Kieran knew what career path he wanted to take, but when Covid hit, he had to think about a backup plan while his goals were put on hold. Now, after […]
Flexible servicing to keep everyone safe during covid
While mutual obligations have now resumed for all jobseekers, we continue to offer flexibility with how we service you. You may choose to attend your appointments with us face-to-face (when […]
When people throw rocks, build a tower
When Shane first came to us at CoAct / Community Solutions in Mackay, he was quiet and reserved. He’d put up some big walls around himself and didn’t trust anyone. […]
Our top articles of 2021
McDonald’s just got lucky National Mental Health Month kicks off I let my customers set the pace Maybe the most helpful thing is just being there Why you’re feeling so […]
Paralympian Liz Johnson tells us how jobseekers can find work and stay COVID-safe
We spoke with Liz Johnson, a British Paralympian swimmer who’s now retired and working in disability employment services. Her UK-based business – The Ability People – educates employers on what […]
The new normal: looking for work and returning to work
The new normal Jobseeker requirements Workplace changes Protect yourself Remember the basics Know your rights Talk to an expert Coping with changes What will stay the same The new normal […]
McDonald’s just got lucky
Four of our customers have joined McDonald’s thanks to determination, hard work and phenomenal support from their recruitment partner, Bron Rafter, at CoAct / Community Solutions. Each one is working […]
Build confidence, develop skills and get a promotion
In Natasha’s first few appointments, she didn’t want to talk or engage with us at all. She was angry at the lack of support she’d received from her employment consultants and felt she just wasn’t […]
