GG’s Flowers is all about inclusion
GG’s Flowers is a social enterprise in Canberra that offers meaningful employment to people living with disability. We chatted with founder Nip Wijewickrema, 2016 ACT Young Australian of the Year, […]
Jesse scores a job during lockdown
We love this story, from our service partner Interact Australia, about helping people find work in the most difficult of circumstances. Jesse, who lives with disability, has found work at […]
Managing anxiety with The Worry Tree
Managing anxiety can be tough, especially when you’re looking for a job. CoAct has a range of service partners who are mental health specialists. They work closely with you to […]
Tom finds the right traineeship for him
Tom’s absolutely loving his traineeship at Banjo’s bakery. He gets to spend time with great people, learn new things and go to work each day. Watch his story. Tom received […]
Life after school – what now?
So, you’ve finally made it to the tail end of this crazy, stressful, and uncertain year. Here are some tips to help you start your next chapter with confidence, and […]
Check out the Queensland apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities
Apprenticeships and traineeships are booming in Queensland right now, thanks to the Government’s massive focus on training and jobs. What you need to know: Apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities are in […]
The last 6 months has been a rollercoaster, but I’d do it all again in a heartbeat
Hi, my name is Jake and I’m a parcel sorter at Australia Post. I’ve been here since September last year and have been with CoAct and Interact for a couple of years. How has your health condition, including […]
Increase your odds of scoring a job with an apprenticeship or traineeship
At last, there are more job opportunities out there. The Government has just announced an extra $1.2 billion to fund the wages of new apprentices and trainees, aged under 35. […]
Our mental health strategies for 2020
Making stronger connections with my family I’ve focused the extra time I have from not travelling for work into my hobbies. Fishing at least weekly with my 75–year-old father at dawn or dusk […]
It’s all about finding the right fit and never giving up
Over the past 8 years, Vincent has found it hard to hold down a job. He lives with a mental health condition and experiences anxiety, limited concentration and short memory. While he’s started several employment placements over this time, at the most they’d last […]
If you’re living with anxiety or depression, we can help you look for work
Over the last six months, we’ve placed over 1500 people from our DES program in new roles. Almost 20 per cent are living with anxiety or depression. It’s been tough looking for work […]
Build good mental health with myCompass from Black Dog Institute
The benefits Research shows that mental health can improve after using myCompass for just 7 weeks. It includes 14 different interactive learning activities and a lifestyle tracking feature. These help users understand themselves better and […]
Registered with Workforce Australia but have a disability, illness or injury?
Signed up to jobactive this year? It’s estimated that between February and July this year, an extra 490,000 people registered for jobactive. To give people access to the program sooner, the government’s initial assessment was loosened. While more people have […]
Looking after your mental health during COVID-19 lockdown
Switch off but stay informed With all the constant news about COVID-19- it can feel overwhelming and stressful. Try not to be tempted into finding every bit of information and […]
Local employer is on the right track to inclusive employment
On Thursday, 27th of February we were very fortunate to invite local employer Katie Weisse, Talent Acquisition Specialist from Aurizon to speak at the Jobs Rockhampton event at Frenchville Sports […]
Surviving the silly season when you’re looking for work
Managing family dynamics, looking after your mental health, worrying about paying the bills and the increased costs of Christmas can all add to your stress and make life increasingly difficult […]
How a deeper understanding of her disability helps Lee manage her job goals
Living with narcolepsy type 2, Lee is currently registered for Disability Employment Services (DES) with her local CoAct Service Partner, MTC. Narcolepsy type 2 is a lifelong non-curable condition that […]
Alternative work options in Cairns
This is Part 3 in our three part series on employment in Cairns. Read Part One and Part Two. Obtaining a part-time position could pave your way into sustainable employment. […]
The definitive guide to finding work in Cairns
This is part One in our three part series on employment in Cairns. Read Part Two and Part Three. Cairns is an amazing place to live and work. From the […]
Overcoming the hidden cost of mental health stigma: What employers need to know this Mental Health Month
The effects of mental health stigma extend greatly beyond the people living with mental ill-health – it’s impacting businesses too. The irony is that employers who fear hiring people with […]
Five Aussie shows that talk about mental health
October is mental health month, and that means we’re shining a light on all things mental health – including must-watch shows! We’ve put together our favourite Australian shows that bring […]
Why mentally healthy workplaces benefit everyone
The cost of mental health stigma One in five Australians are affected by mental illness annually and 45% of Australians have experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime. With those […]
9 tips for managing your mental health condition whilst looking for work
Before anything else, if you’re living with mental ill-health, it’s important to seek the help of a medical professional. Your doctor is a good place to start. They can recommend […]
Our favourite motivational quotes to help get you out of bed in the morning
CoAct and our Service Partners are in the business of making people feel good. It’s part of how we help people find the right job sooner. We know that if […]
The employer toolkit making it easy to hire a diverse workforce
This free employer toolkit includes plenty of resources, practical advice and short videos to help employers feel empowered to hire people with disability and understand the process. Five easy-to-follow […]
R U OK? How to know the signs and what to do if someone’s not OK.
In the time it takes to have a cup of coffee, you can have a conversation that could change a life – Gavin Larkin (1968 – 2011) R U […]
Starting and finishing in DES: Your guide to Disability Employment Services
Indigenous services with Workforce Australia
Connecting to employment services through technology: A handy guide
So, you’ve chosen CoAct as your employment services provider. Congratulations! We promise you’ll be in great hands on your journey to finding and keeping the right job. What do […]
Dylan Alcott’s new campaign to remove the barriers in the workplace
As a proud not-for-profit Disability Employment Services (DES) provider, CoAct and our Service Partners are in full support of Alcott’s impactful new Remove The Barrier campaign. Real people with […]
Am I eligible for Disability Employment Services?
Am I eligible for Disability Employment Services? You might be eligible for DES if you’re: living with a mental health condition, treated illness, injury or disability that makes it difficult […]
Change the Story: Wrapping up our huge disability employment campaign
When CoAct and our Service Partners launched our nationwide storytelling project, Change the Story, we knew it would be special, but we truly didn’t estimate the reach or impact it […]
Sammy’s story of ambition and growth
2.2 million Australian’s of working age are living with disability, but they are significantly under-represented in the workforce. We are working to reverse this trend by engaging local communities with […]
Priya’s story of support and inclusion
2.2 million Australian’s of working age are living with disability, but they are significantly under-represented in the workforce. We are working to reverse this trend by engaging local communities with […]
Kelsey succeeds with strength and determination
As part of our ongoing commitment to disability employment services, CoAct have launched ‘Change the Story’ – an online short film festival, featuring seven short films that showcase the lives […]
John finds success through perseverance and hope
CoAct is an organisation that is passionate about breaking down the stereotypes surrounding disability employment. As part of our commitment to that cause, we have launched a project called “Change […]
How to help your teen plan for their future
Tips to help your teen find success after school 1. Start the conversation Ideally the conversation with your child about their future should have been ongoing throughout their lives, […]
Caterina’s story of connection and confidence
As part of our commitment to increasing awareness about disability employment services in Australia we have launched “Change the Story”, an online film festival featuring seven short films that highlight […]
Bridie helps us Change the Story
Introducing Bridie In our first short film, we meet Bridie, who has 5% of her vision. Bridie’s story is all about how building confidence opens up opportunities so that people […]
Billie breaks down the stereotypes
At CoAct we are committed to changing the face of disability employment services in Australia. As part of that commitment we’ve launched an online film festival called ‘Change the Story’. […]
Bernie’s story of purpose and creativity
As part of our ongoing commitment to breaking down the stereotypes about disability employment, we’ve launched an online film festival featuring seven short films, which showcase the real human stories […]
David gains valuable work experience thanks to AccessAbility Day
David had been unemployed since high school, but thanks to the Accessibility Day initiative and CoAct Service Partner, Community Solutions, he was able to gain experience to add to his […]
The grass is greener for Phillip
After being unemployed for 2 years, Phillip had become homeless and his mental health had declined dramatically. He turned to CoAct Service Partner, Interact, for support, and with their help […]
New hope for Cameron and his family
Diagnosed with schizophrenia and with a brand new baby, Cameron was struggling to find his place in the workforce. He approached CoAct Service Partner Community Solutions for help, and with […]
Jacinta’s “incredable” journey
Out of employment since 2015, and struggling with some big personal hurdles, Jacinta wasn’t sure where to turn. With the support of CoAct Service Partner Community Solutions, Jacinta has found […]
Thanks to the Can Van, Tannille realises she CAN
Tannille had been unemployed for over three years when she approached CoAct partner Workways for help. With Tannille’s motivated approach, and a little help from Workways, she soon found her […]
The Can Vans are back!
Following on the success of last year, our travelling jobs roadshow is back on the road. Along with staff from Community Solutions, MTC Australia, Skills Plus, CHESS Connect, and Worklink, […]
Allen’s persistence beats resistance
Allen had been working for the same company for 25 years when he was suddenly made redundant. Overwhelmed at the prospect of rejoining the job market after so many years […]
How to write an awesome cover letter
Why you need to nail your cover letter Cover letters give your application a little boost by: Introducing yourself and showcasing your awesome communication skills Highlighting good points in your […]
Useful associations for people with intellectual disability
NSW – Council for Intellectual Disability The NSW Council for Intellectual Disability (NSW CID) have a range of programs available to develop skills and confidence in individuals living with intellectual […]
5 super helpful Facebook groups for parents and carers of people with intellectual disability
Thankfully we live in the age of the internet, which gives us countless ways to connect with people in similar circumstances, who can not only empathise with our situations, but […]
6 comedians who are totally relatable for people with anxiety and depression
Comedy can be a great thing, not only because it can make you laugh – even when you don’t feel like it – but because comedy can be a great […]
How to find work in Mackay
From healthcare to retail, construction to manufacturing, Mackay has a host of great opportunities for those looking for work, you just need to know where (and when) to look. […]
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 […]
It’s a match for Josh! Finding work in IT
Struggling with anxiety, and after 6 fruitless years on the job search, Josh came to CoAct Service Partner, Interact, for help. With support from Rebecca and the rest of his […]
5 questions your interviewer shouldn’t ask if you have disability, illness or injury
If you’re a person living with disability, you may be keen to know where you stand with employers. The important thing is to understand what you can and can’t be […]
How your business benefits when you hire someone with a disability
Did you know? There are 2.2 million Australians living with disability who are of working age, but Australians with disability are under-represented in the workforce. In fact, the employment rate […]
Nailing your resume
You’re selling a product – YOU Writing a resume can be daunting, but your resume is just an advertisement, and you’re selling the thing you know most about in the […]
What job is right for me? Different jobs for different personalities
Finding work that matches your ‘type’ Finding a job that’s right for you can be tricky if you’re not sure where you fit. The right type of job will depend […]
‘Can Van’ offers job seekers the right solutions
There are three Can Vans travelling around NSW, Victoria and Queensland, as part of the CoAct/Community Solutions Jobs Roadshow that has the aim of reaching 35,000 job seekers with disability. […]
Rolling Towards Employment
The Brunswick resident has a mild intellectual disability and suffers from anxiety but through the service landed a job at VCAT. I was just tired of getting rejected,” she said. […]
Mindset matters: Staying motivated and keeping your self-esteem in check
Set your SMART goals Once you’ve taken the time to set (and write down!) your SMART goals, it’s time to turn those plans into action. But how do you get […]
On the road to success with the Can Van
When the Can Van Jobs Roadshow rolled into Townsville last month, it provided the perfect opportunity for job seekers Leanne and Rebecca to showcase their customer service and barista skills. […]
Hardest working caravans head to Grafton
The Can Vans offer instant support for people with disability looking for help to find or keep a job including free career advice from employment experts, personalised job search support, […]
A clean start for Owen
Finding work when you’re living with disability can be a challenge but with the right support you can open the door to new opportunities. Meet Owen. Owen had been with […]
Seasonal jobs 101: The 5 most asked interview questions and how to answer them
1. “What is your past experience in this area?” This question is really a way for them to see how much training they need to give in order to bring […]
JesseCan… and so can you!
Competing for the honour of naming one of our three Can Vans, Cheryl’s entry was named ‘JesseCan’, in honour of her son Jesse, who was diagnosed at age 9 with […]
Can Van roadshow visiting the Illawarra this week
The Can Van is aiming to provide a key service during its stopover in the Illawarra. CoAct, a leading employment services provider, is visiting the Illawarra this week as part […]
School’s almost over… how do I decide what next?
The good news is, that despite all the pressure you feel right now, it’s okay if you don’t know exactly what you want to do next. Many young Australians are […]
Ian’s can-do attitude leads to employment
Originally posted by Fairfield City Champion on September 27th Ian Clare is very aware of how hard it is to get work when you have a disability. His partner Pamela has […]
World Mental Health Day – What can you do to be involved?
One in five Australians are affected by mental illness annually, yet many don’t seek help because of stigma. Today is World Mental Health Day, a day that Australia’s peak […]
Can Van Locations
Be sure to visit the website and for more information and to register for a one on one with an employment consultant NSW 9th-10th October – 1A Dutton […]
Youth employment program success for Taylor
There are lots of reasons why it can be a challenge for young people to find work. Just like Taylor who had experienced health setbacks as well as a low […]
Finding a job after time out: yes, it IS possible
People call ‘time out’ on work for a variety of reasons For many, it is for family responsibilities, for others it might be because of stigma or barriers due to […]
5 tips to survive your first job
Congrats on landing your first job – this is an important milestone in your life! Starting a first job is a new and possibly scary experience for you, so we […]
The Can Van is on its way to help people living with disability find a job they love
This clever caravan is on a mission to help people living with disability get the right job sooner, connect job seekers with employers and support services and, most importantly, showcase […]
What is Employment Services and how can it help me?
What do CoAct job seekers say? 86% of our job seekers recommend CoAct. Hear what they have to say about us: Think of us as your co-pilots, helping you navigate […]
Meet our Employment Consultant of the year, Fiona
When you register with CoAct, you’ll have a local team of specialists who each play a key role in helping you find and keep a job. We like to call […]
More than jobs: Tackling youth homelessness – Jacob’s Story
Homelessness is just one barrier that people can face when it comes to finding work, which is why CoAct works to address these deeper issues. For youth particularly, homelessness is […]
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 […]
Youth employment 101: How to get a job with no experience
Entering the workforce for the first time can be an overwhelming thought. Especially with the classic catch-22, you need to get a job to get experience, and every job position […]
How the skills you learn as a parent can be good for your resume
Just picture what it would take to replace a stay at home parent or care giver – these are the very skills and experience you’ve developed without even realising it. […]
Helping job seekers navigate work
Meet Lorae! She’s one of the winners of our Can Van naming competition. We thought you’d like to get to know her a little better, and hear her story of […]
Hope keeps the Can Van wheels rolling
For Brisbane local Anne, life was pretty good. She was a uni graduate with a business degree, working on various projects across government and not-for-profits, until things changed in 2001. […]
How to dress for an interview
Plan Self-image Your image speaks volumes about who you are. A potential employer will form an opinion of you within seconds of meeting you. Image is not just about the […]
Can Van nicknames announced!
Wait, what’s a Can Van? If you haven’t already heard, in September, we’re launching three ‘Can Vans’ that will travel around New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria delivering jobs, advice […]
More than jobs: addressing youth homelessness – Jacob’s story
Homelessness is often seen as a problem that just affects adults in big cities. But the sad reality is that over 28,000^ Australians under the age of 24 will not […]
Job hunting with a disability: tips for success
6 tips on how to find work with a disability 1. Look after yourself First and foremost, you need to look after yourself! While that’s easier said than done, […]
Help us name our new Can Vans to WIN!
We’ve been busy bees the last few months at CoAct HQ! With the new Disability Employment Services (DES) program coming into effect at the beginning of July, we’ve been planning […]
We start with you
Watch the CoAct video featuring our awesome job seekers.
Wayne serves up a recipe for success
How would you manage a history of mental illness, a recent Asperger’s diagnosis and following your passion as a chef? With a little help from his co-pilots CoAct and our […]
The world is a stage for Scott
Working for the Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts (HOTA) is a dream come true for Scott Worboys. The recently transformed arts centre is the hub of the Gold Coasts […]
Small steps path the way to success
When 23-year-old Jack first stepped into the Robina Site of CoAct Service Partner, Workways, he had never had a job, had no driver’s licence and lacked confidence. Diagnosed with Asperger’s […]
The healing power of work: Sharon’s employment journey
Sharon was a successful career woman, with a long work history and a strong set of skills. After many months out of work Sharon found herself dealing with severe depression […]
Helping bridge the autism employment gap: Sam’s journey
Sam’s journey to securing his first job Sam* first visited CoAct Service Partner, Interact Australia with his Mum, Jenny. He was keen to find work but with no employment history, […]
