Mark, has transformed his life through hard work, determination, and the support of TURSA. His journey from a challenging background to a full-time position at Meales Concreting Pumping serves as an inspiring example for others seeking a fresh start.
Mark candidly shared his motivation for seeking help at TURSA: “I just wanted to get myself out of trouble, come from a little bit of a bad background and stuff, and wanted to get myself on track and get a job.” His commitment led him to TURSA, where he received invaluable assistance.
Mark’s journey towards employment was not without its challenges. His medical history and limited education initially left him hesitant and lacking in motivation. However, with the additional support and collaboration of Aboriginal Employment Strategies (AES) and Momentum, and the assistance in gaining a transport license, accessing a birth certificate, and participating in a Job Club, Mark’s life took a transformative turn. The Steps Towards Work Program and the M Week Program introduced by Momentum played a crucial role in boosting his confidence and actively engaging him in his employment journey.
Mark’s successful completion of these programs led to him obtaining his birth certificate and car learner’s license. His interest in the construction industry was nurtured, and he was assisted in meeting the prerequisites for positions on the local Coffs Harbour Bypass. The collaboration with AES opened up opportunities for future bypass positions, and Mark completed additional training to increase his employability.
Mark secured a motorbike learner’s license, providing him with a viable transport option. The weekly job club sessions offered further support, helping Mark succeed in interviews and boosting his confidence.
Mark’s journey, supported by TURSA, AES and Momentum, led him to a labouring position with Meales Concrete Pumping, where he continues to thrive. This employment not only marks a significant milestone in Mark’s journey but also a profound change in his life. Mark is now independent and no longer in receipt of a benefit, demonstrating the broader benefits of the support programs.
Luke, from Meales Concrete Pumping, shares Mark’s success story. Meales, established in the 1970s, is one of Australia’s largest concrete pumping groups. Recently, the owner retired, allowing employees like Luke to obtain a piece of the company as their own. With a vested interest in the success of Meales Concrete Pumping, Luke seeks people are ready to show up, present well and be willing to do the hours.
To learn more about Meales CLICK HERE
Mark’s life has transformed since securing a job. He proudly states, “It looks a lot better than what it used to be.” With a regular income, he now focuses on providing for his young family.
Are you ready for a brighter future like Mark’s? Contact TURSA today to kickstart your journey toward meaningful employment. Put your head down, stay committed, and let TURSA guide you toward success.
Contact TURSA: Visit TURSA’s website
Learn more about Meales Concrete Pumping: Meales Concrete Pumping
Remember, persistence pays off, and TURSA is here to support you every step of the way!
Founded in 1994, Tursa Employment & Training is a not-for-profit organisation. Our core business is all about work: finding work for people who need work and finding workers for businesses that need workers. TURSA is also a nationally accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO: 90325). From 48 offices along the Eastern seaboard from Forster (NSW) to Noosaville (QLD), TURSA connects participants and businesses with a minimum of fuss and no fees.
TURSA helps participants find employment and supports their transition into work. We assist participants in retaining their jobs and thriving in new roles. Additionally, we provide resume screening, candidate shortlisting, wage subsidies, traineeship incentives, and post-placement support for long-term success.
TURSA provides Disability Employment Services across accessible offices from Noosaville in Queensland to Forster in New South Wales. Our focus is on assisting participants in building skills and confidence for employment. We offer ongoing support, mentoring, and guidance after placement to ensure a successful transition to work. Additionally, we support business owners with wage subsidy guidance, fostering sustainable job placements.
Statistics on Hidden Disabilities: As an employer, you have the power to make a difference. Approximately 20% of Australia’s workforce may be living with an invisible disability, some may already be in your employment. These conditions, which span physical, mental, or neurological aspects, are not immediately apparent but can impact a person’s abilities to operate in what we consider a traditional method. By creating an inclusive environment and accommodating the needs of employees with invisible disabilities, you can benefit from a safer and more productive workplace.
Benefits of Hiring People with Barriers to Employment:
TURSA delivers the Australian Government’s Workforce Australia – Transition to Work programme in the Brisbane Southeast region with offices in Woodridge, Beenleigh and Capalaba and is specifically designed for young people aged between 15 and 24. TURSA aims to help them create opportunities to find direction, and ultimately, a job that is right for them.
The participant journey at TURSA involves flexible engagement and assessment, allowing participants to have a say in their service design. Participants are given access to interpreters and flexibility in appointment attendance. Participants have a one-on-one relationship with the same Employment Adviser or Disability Employment Advocate throughout all referral phases to build trust. Our recruitment process starts by building on the participant’s strengths. We will refer our participants to jobs based on the information compiled from Job Choice Discussions, Skills Assessments, and Participant Resumes.
TURSA supports employers by understanding their needs for specific roles and tailoring services to meet those needs. We engage with employers to identify requirements, provide training packages based on needs, offer support for workplace modifications, and assist in testing participant suitability through paid work trials. TURSA also collaborates with employers to address barriers and enhance service delivery.
TURSA, as a Job Services Provider, successfully supports employment for people living with barriers. TURSA understands the unique challenges and strengths of individuals with barriers and works closely with them to find suitable employment opportunities. TURSA also works closely with other community organisations, employers, and participants to ensure they have the tools, support, and modifications needed to achieve their goals.
So, you’ve read a little about the facts and benefits of hiring people. Let’s delve into the practical steps to make this process successful.
When hiring candidates with barriers, we keep the following points in mind:
Remember, every workplace can make a difference by adopting these changes, many of which are low-cost or cost-free.
Employing individuals with barriers is a win-win situation. It provides opportunities for a marginalised group while bringing unique skills and perspectives to the workplace.
https://calculate.fairwork.gov.au/findyourawardThe minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. As of 1 July 2024 the National Minimum Wage is $24.10 per hour or $915.90 per week. Note: Casual employees must be paid 25% loading and are subject to the correct award to your industry.
Wage subsidies may be available to businesses that hire eligible individuals into ongoing jobs. Wage subsidies can be up to a maximum of $10,000.
If you fill an ongoing position with the help of:
the provider may offer you a wage subsidy.
The wage subsidy is to help with some of the initial costs of hiring the new employee to help ensure the success of their employment.
Whether the individual is eligible will depend on how long they have been participating in employment services. More details CLICK HERE
Apprenticeships: The Priority Hiring Incentive is a payment for employers of Australian Apprentices training towards an occupation and qualification at a Certificate level III or above listed on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority Listarrow_outwardOpens in new window or tab. You can use the Priority List Explorer to see which occupations and qualifications qualify for support.
You may be eligible to receive a Priority Hiring Incentive of up to $5000 in the first year of an apprenticeship, paid over two instalments of
For detailed information CLICK HERE
JobAccess is the national hub for workplace and employment information for people with disability, employers and service providers.
Created by the Australian Government, it brings together the information and resources that can ‘drive disability employment’. Along with this website, there is:
Download this page as a PDF CLICK HERE
Tursa Employment & Training acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.
Your friends or family will thank you later.