Long-Term Unemployment to Meaningful Work

From Long-Term Unemployment to Meaningful Work: Jamie’s Journey with TURSA

Sometimes, all it takes to change a life is the right support, the right employer — and someone willing to believe in you.

A strong collaboration between TURSA and a highly supportive local employer has helped Jamie, an Indigenous jobseeker, move from long‑term unemployment into meaningful, ongoing work. Twelve weeks on, the outcome is still delivering positive feedback — and most importantly, Jamie is now off income support and building a new future.

What Inclusive Employment Really Looks Like
The managers at Breakwall Holiday Park described the transformation best: “From the very beginning, all of us knew that Jamie was worth it. He was simply stuck in a place that no one would ever want to be. What he needed most was kindness, empathy and a non‑judgmental approach. The difference between who Jamie was when he arrived and the person he is today is night and day.” They also shared that guests have begun commenting positively on Jamie’s work and interactions — feedback that has further strengthened his confidence and sense of belonging. This is what inclusive employment looks like in action. Not just filling a role — but changing a life.

Building Confidence Before Employment

When Jamie first connected with TURSA, he had been registered for many weeks. Long term unemployment had taken a toll. Low confidence, anxiety around job searching, unstable housing and limited recent work experience made finding employment feel overwhelming.

Rather than rushing straight into job applications, TURSA focused on getting the foundations right first.

Jamie was supported through STEPS, a culturally appropriate personal development program designed to help Indigenous participants overcome non‑vocational barriers to work. Through STEPS, Jamie worked on:

rebuilding confidence and self‑belief
developing routine and motivation
understanding workplace expectations
strengthening communication and interview skills
identifying realistic and achievable employment goals

Alongside the program, TURSA helped Jamie access counselling and housing support services — providing stability and breathing room so he could focus on what came next.

A Local Employer Willing to Give Someone a Chance

Through TURSA’s strong employer relationships, Jamie was introduced to NRMA Breakwall Holiday Park, a local employer known for their inclusive and people‑first approach.

Jamie didn’t arrive with a perfect résumé — but he did arrive with willingness, honesty and a desire to work. To support both Jamie and the employer, TURSA arranged a paid work trial, giving Jamie the chance to show what he could do in a real workplace, and giving the employer confidence before making a decision.

That paid work trial made all the difference.

Jamie showed up, worked hard, followed instructions and took pride in learning new skills. By the end of the trial, it was clear he had earned his place.

He was offered ongoing employment within the maintenance team.

Ongoing Support That Makes Employment Stick

Getting the job was just the beginning.

TURSA continued to support Jamie with practical assistance, including work clothing, a mobile phone and a bicycle to help overcome transport barriers. Regular post‑placement check‑ins with both Jamie and the employer helped ensure the role stayed on track and any issues were addressed early.

At the 12‑week mark, TURSA successfully achieved a full outcome, with both Jamie and the employer still providing positive feedback.

Most importantly, Jamie is now off payment, gaining confidence, stability and pride in his work.

What Inclusive Employment Really Looks Like

The managers at Breakwall Holiday Park described the transformation best:

“From the very beginning, all of us knew that Jamie was worth it. He was simply stuck in a place that no one would ever want to be. What he needed most was kindness, empathy and a non‑judgmental approach. The difference between who Jamie was when he arrived and the person he is today is night and day.”

They also shared that guests have begun commenting positively on Jamie’s work and interactions — feedback that has further strengthened his confidence and sense of belonging.

This is what inclusive employment looks like in action. Not just filling a role — but changing a life.

Partner With TURSA

At TURSA, we know that long‑term unemployment doesn’t reflect a lack of ability — it often reflects a lack of opportunity.

If you’re an employer who believes in people, values diversity, and is open to supported pathways like paid work trials, we’d love to work with you. TURSA provides the support, mentoring and follow‑up that makes employment sustainable — for both participants and employers.

👉 Interested in becoming an employer partner?
Get in touch with your local TURSA team and discover how small opportunities can lead to life‑changing outcomes.