TEL 1800 670 914

LocationsLocations

Two Different Stories. One Powerful Truth: You Can Find Work You Want

Finding work isn’t just about getting any job — it’s about finding the right job.

At TURSA, we work with people from all walks of life. Each person comes to us with different experiences, goals, strengths, and barriers. The two stories below show just how different those journeys can be — and how the right, personalised support can lead to meaningful employment that fits the individual, not the other way around.

These real‑life stories highlight what’s possible when people who want to work are supported in a way that recognises who they are and what they want to achieve.

On the surface, these two stories couldn’t be more different.

  • Different backgrounds
  • Different challenges
  • Different employment goals

But they share one important thing in common: both participants wanted to work — and both achieved outcomes that mattered to them.

At TURSA, we don’t believe in one‑size‑fits‑all employment services. These stories show how tailored support, genuine listening, and practical assistance can help people move into roles that suit their skills, interests, and long‑term goals.

How TURSA supports people into work

Your Journey with TURSA

Employment Support Built Around You

What makes the difference isn’t luck — it’s individualised support.

TURSA works closely with each participant to:

  • Understand their employment goals and interests
  • Identify strengths, skills, and transferable experience
  • Address individual barriers to employment
  • Build confidence and job readiness at the right pace
  • Match people with employers and roles that actually suit them

Whether someone is returning to work, changing direction, or entering the workforce for the first time, our approach adapts to the individual — not the other way around.

Support designed around you

More Than Just a Job

Getting a job is important.
Getting a job you want, that fits your life and your goals, is transformative.

These stories show that:

  • Meaningful employment is achievable
  • Barriers can be addressed with the right support
  • Confidence grows when people feel heard and respected
  • Long‑term outcomes are stronger when the job is the right fit

At TURSA, success isn’t measured by quick placements — it’s measured by sustainable, meaningful outcomes that participants are proud of.

Employment support build around your goals

Ready to Find Work That’s Right for You?

If you want to work — and want support that’s built around you — TURSA is here to help.

👉 Talk to TURSA today and take the first step toward employment that matches your goals, strengths, and aspirations.

👉 Find your nearest TURSA Location

Finding the right job isn’t just about skills — it’s also about the workplace. TURSA works closely with employers to encourage inclusive workplaces that support long‑term success, helping participants thrive well beyond their first day.

More Than Jobs: Songline Bush Café offers Inclusion

Inclusive employment is real when it feels like belonging.

Jess (Manager) shares what it’s like opening and operating a cafe where staff are supported, encouraged and given the space they need to thrive.

Songlines Bush Cafe logo

“I feel at home when I come to work.” — Heidi (Participant)

At Songline Bush Café, Heidi’s day starts with preparation — opening up, getting everything ready, and setting high standards before service begins.
 
“It’s not something that I dread doing. It’s something I’m happy to go and do every day.”

“I do the prep work, open up, start everything, do cleaning, make sure everything’s ready for the day.”

Heidi -Participant

Creativity in the kitchen — and connection to culture

For Heidi, the best part of working at Songline Bush Café is the kitchen — being creative, contributing, and working in a place that reflects her culture and community.

“I like all the cooking most… being able to be creative in the kitchen.”
“I’m Aboriginal, so working with my own culture as well.”

 
Songline Bush Cafe Corindi Beach

“I love waking up and knowing that I get to come here, be around my people and work at Songline.”

Heidi -Participant

Getting ready to return to work

After time away from employment, Heidi describes losing motivation — something many people experience.
Returning to work at Songline helped her rebuild routine, confidence, and momentum.

“It helped me get ready to be back at work… I kind of lost motivation, but it definitely helped me get that back.”

“It definitely helped me get that back.”

Heidi - Participant

The support behind the opportunity

Heidi’s role at Songline Bush Café came from being connected to the right opportunity at the right time — and then being supported to settle back into work. “I just got a call saying there was a job opportunity open. I said yep, I’ll take it.”
  • Connecting participants to local job opportunities
  • Supporting the transition back into work
  • Working with employers like Songline Bush Café
  • Ongoing support focused on sustainable employment

Heidi’s advice to others

Heidi’s message is practical and honest — take opportunities where you can, keep moving forward, and build confidence. “Try to find any opportunity you can, even if it’s volunteering.” “Gain confidence in yourself — employers notice when you’ve got something going on in your life.”

Goals in motion

With work at Songline back in place, Heidi is focusing on her goals — including licensing, saving, and exploring further training in cooking or baking. “I’m actually getting a lot of my goals done.”

Songline Bush Café shows how inclusive employment can work when employers are supported to build strong, respectful workplaces.

If you’re an employer and want to explore inclusive employment, TURSA can help you understand options and support sustainable outcomes.

Heidi’s story shows it’s possible to return to work, rebuild motivation, and feel a sense of belonging.

If you’re looking for support to find the right opportunity and stay supported once you start, TURSA can help.

Want to learn more about TURSA?

Whether you’re an employer looking to build an inclusive workplace,or a participant looking for the right opportunity, TURSA is here to support you.

contact us

Interview with Chris: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal with TURSA

Martin (TURSA):

Chris, thanks for sitting down with me today. I’d love to hear a bit about your journey—what brought you to TURSA and how have things changed for you since?

Chris:

Well, I’ll be honest—I spent a couple of years in jail. Getting back on my feet wasn’t easy. But the team here at TURSA, especially Laetitia, really helped me out. My forklift licence had expired while I was inside, and she helped me renew it. Then she supported me in getting my Heavy Rigid licence, which led to the job I’ve got now.

Martin:

That’s a big step forward. What kind of work are you doing now?

Chris:

I drive a 14.5-tonne vacuum truck. It’s got a 90mm vacuum sucker and a high-pressure gurney that blasts out 5000 PSI. We use it to dig around services without damaging pipes. It’s a crucial job—especially in the clean water section. Just the other day in Mullumbimby, we fixed 22 main bursts. It’s hard work, but I love it.

Martin:

That’s incredible. How has this job—and the support from TURSA—changed your life?

Chris:

Honestly, I’m the happiest I’ve been in a long time. I still have some personal issues to attend to, but I’ve moved out of a bad living situation and am working every day. TURSA helped me with more than just licences—they got me emergency accommodation and work clothes and even set me up with counselling sessions.

Martin:

That’s a lot of support. Have you done any other training or workshops?

Chris:

Yeah, we did a first aid course and a workshop called “Connect” with Ryan. He demonstrated how to utilise AI to create resumes. I didn’t know anything about that before—it was pretty amazing.  They also helped me get a First Aid Certificate, Forklift Licence, Heavy Ridgid Truck Licence, Work Clothes, Emergency accommodation and Counselling.

Martin:

If someone else was going through what you’ve been through, what would you tell them?

Chris:

I’d tell them to come talk to TURSA. Laetitia knew my background and never judged me. That meant a lot. I’m done worrying about what people think. I’ve got a job, I show up early, I’ve got keys to the yard—I’m committed.

Martin:

And what’s next for you?

Chris:

They’re discussing offering me a full-time position. I’d love that. I’ve got a good reputation at work, and I take it seriously. I don’t drink on the job, I’m reliable, and I know how vital that truck is.

Martin:

Chris, it’s been inspiring hearing your story. You’ve come a long way, and we’re proud to have been part of that journey.

Chris:

Thanks, mate. I mean it—I really appreciate everything TURSA has done for me.

Secure your future with TURSA

More than jobs....
Click Here

Turning Low Confidence into Job Sucess

Learn 10
Easy Steps...

1... Embrace a Learning Mindset

  • Recognise that it’s normal to feel uncertain initially. Approach your new role with curiosity and a willingness to learn.
  • Ask questions, seek feedback, and actively listen to your colleagues.

2... Set Realistic Expectations

  • Understand that you won’t know everything right away. Give yourself time to adapt and grow.
  • Break down your tasks into smaller steps and celebrate small victories.

3... Focus on Your Strengths

  • Identify the skills and experiences that got you the job. Leverage these strengths to build confidence.
  • Remind yourself of past achievements and how they relate to your current responsibilities.

4... Build Positive Relationships

  • Connect with your colleagues. Attend team meetings, participate in social events, and engage in casual conversations.
  • Seek out mentors or buddies who can guide you and provide support.

5... Learn from Mistakes

  • Understand that everyone makes mistakes. Instead of dwelling on them, focus on what you’ve learned.
  • Use failures as opportunities for growth and improvement.

6... Practice Self-Compassion

  • Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure.
  • Avoid negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations.

7... Seek Professional Development

  • Take advantage of any training programs or workshops offered by your company.
  • Consider online courses or certifications related to your field.

8... Observe Successful Colleagues

  • Pay attention to how experienced colleagues handle their tasks and interact with others.
  • Learn from their behaviours and adapt them to your own style.

9... Visualise Success

  • Imagine yourself excelling in your role. Visualisation can boost confidence and motivation.
  • Picture positive outcomes and focus on achieving them.

10... Celebrate Progress

  •  Keep a journal of your achievements, no matter how small. Reflect on your growth over time.
  • – Share your wins with friends or family—they’ll cheer you on!

Remember, confidence grows with experience. Be patient with yourself, stay open to learning, and believe in your ability to adapt and thrive. You’ve got this! 

LanguageContrast
Font Size:100%
en Language
af Afrikaanssq Albanianam Amharicar Arabichy Armenianaz Azerbaijanieu Basquebe Belarusianbn Bengalibs Bosnianbg Bulgarianca Catalanceb Cebuanony Chichewazh-CN Chinese (Simplified)zh-TW Chinese (Traditional)co Corsicanhr Croatiancs Czechda Danishnl Dutchen Englisheo Esperantoet Estoniantl Filipinofi Finnishfr Frenchfy Frisiangl Galicianka Georgiande Germanel Greekgu Gujaratiht Haitian Creoleha Hausahaw Hawaiianiw Hebrewhi Hindihmn Hmonghu Hungarianis Icelandicig Igboid Indonesianga Irishit Italianja Japanesejw Javanesekn Kannadakk Kazakhkm Khmerko Koreanku Kurdish (Kurmanji)ky Kyrgyzlo Laola Latinlv Latvianlt Lithuanianlb Luxembourgishmk Macedonianmg Malagasyms Malayml Malayalammt Maltesemi Maorimr Marathimn Mongolianmy Myanmar (Burmese)ne Nepalino Norwegianps Pashtofa Persianpl Polishpt Portuguesepa Punjabiro Romanianru Russiansm Samoangd Scottish Gaelicsr Serbianst Sesothosn Shonasd Sindhisi Sinhalask Slovaksl Slovenianso Somalies Spanishsu Sudanesesw Swahilisv Swedishtg Tajikta Tamilte Teluguth Thaitr Turkishuk Ukrainianur Urduuz Uzbekvi Vietnamesecy Welshxh Xhosayi Yiddishyo Yorubazu Zulu
Hi Cta Img 1
I'm A Job Seeker
Hi Cta Img 2
I'm An Employer

Share This

Select your desired option below to share a direct link to this page.

Your friends or family will thank you later.

Hi Who We Are Img Model

Login

No account? Click here to register