Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) is designed to give people with disability greater choice and support when looking for meaningful work. It focuses on helping individuals build skills, connect with employers, and access the right assistance to achieve lasting employment.

Choosing the right IEA provider is an important decision. The provider you work with will play a key role in understanding your goals, offering tailored support, and creating opportunities that suit your strengths. For employers, working with the right provider means having guidance to create inclusive and supportive workplaces.

At TURSA, we are committed to guiding job seekers and employers through this change. Our focus is on making sure you feel informed, supported, and confident in choosing a provider that meets your needs.

What Is an IEA Provider?

An IEA provider is an organisation that helps people with disability prepare for, find, and keep meaningful work. Providers are there to walk alongside you, offering support that matches your individual needs, strengths, and career goals.

The services an IEA provider may deliver include:

  • Helping you explore your skills and interests.
  • Offering training or work-readiness activities.
  • Supporting you to apply for jobs and connect with employers.
  • Assisting with workplace adjustments so you can thrive in your role.
  • Providing ongoing guidance once you start work, to help with long-term success.

The main responsibility of an IEA provider is to make sure you feel supported throughout your employment journey, with services that are flexible and person-centred.

What to Consider When Choosing an IEA Provider

Finding the right IEA provider is about choosing the support that feels right for you. Everyone’s journey is different, so it helps to think about what matters most to you when exploring providers.

By keeping these following factors in mind, you can choose a provider who not only meets your practical needs but also feels like the right partner for your employment journey.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an IEA Provider

Location and Accessibility

Is the provider easy for you to reach? Do they offer local offices, online support, or flexible ways to connect?

Range of Services

Does the provider offer training, job preparation, and support in finding work? Will they be there to guide you once you’ve started a job?

Experience and Approach

Has the provider supported people in situations similar to yours? Do they take the time to listen and understand your goals?

Connections with Employers

Does the provider have strong links with local businesses and industries? Can they open doors to job opportunities that match your interests?

Ongoing Support

Will they continue to work with you after you’ve found a role, to make sure you feel settled and supported in the workplace?

Questions to Ask Potential IEA Providers

When you meet with a provider, it can help to have a few questions prepared. This gives you a clearer idea of how they work and whether their approach feels right for you.

Examples of Questions to Ask an IEA Provider

What Services Will You Offer Under IEA?

Understanding the range of services available helps you know what kind of support you can expect, from job preparation to ongoing assistance.

How Do You Involve Individuals in Decision-Making?

A good provider should include you in planning and make sure your choices and goals are at the centre of their support.

What Industries and Employers Do You Work With?

It’s useful to know the types of connections they have and whether these match your interests or career goals.

How Do You Support Long-Term Career Growth?

Ask about the ways they can help you continue to build skills, progress in your role, or explore new opportunities over time.

How to Choose an IEA Provider

Choosing a provider is a personal decision, and it’s okay to take your time. Exploring your options can help you feel confident that the support you choose is the right fit for your needs.

Ways to Learn More About Providers

Use Government Resources

Check the official provider directory or information on Inclusive Employment Australia to see which providers are available in your area.

Read About Their Services and Values

Visit provider websites to learn about the types of support they offer and the values they promote. This can give you a sense of whether their approach matches what you are looking for.

Attend Community Information Sessions

Some providers may hold events or open days where you can meet staff and ask questions in person.

Book an Initial Appointment

Having a first meeting is a good way to see how the provider works and whether you feel comfortable with their team and approach.

Why the Right Choice Matters

The IEA provider you choose can make a big difference to your journey into work. The right support can help you feel more confident, open new opportunities, and give you the tools to succeed in a role that suits you.

A strong relationship with your provider also means you’re more likely to feel heard and supported along the way. This can lead to better job matches, smoother workplace experiences, and greater independence over time.

Taking the time to choose a provider who feels right for you is an important step toward building a future where you can thrive in meaningful employment.

How TURSA Can Help

Our focus is on walking alongside you as you explore your options with Inclusive Employment Australia. We are here to provide clear information, answer your questions, and support you in making choices that feel right for your goals.

Our team takes a person-centred approach, meaning we listen to what matters to you and help you find pathways that build on your strengths. We can guide you through the process of choosing a provider, connect you with local opportunities, and be a steady source of support as you move toward meaningful work.

TURSA is committed to making sure you feel informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.

Get Started with Inclusive Employment Australia Today

Choosing an IEA provider is an important step in shaping your path to meaningful work. Taking the time to explore your options, ask questions, and reflect on what feels right will help you find the support that best fits your goals.

You don’t have to do this alone. We can help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and stand beside you as you take your next steps.

Contact TURSA today to learn more about your options and start building a future of opportunity and independence.