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.

Empowering Your Path to Financial Security: Unlocking Self-Worth and Mental Well-being

Are you struggling to find employment and feeling uncertain about your future? As a job seeker registered with Workforce Australia, you’re not alone. But it’s time to take control of your journey and discover the power of self-help, mental well-being, and skill development.

Establishing a Foundation of Mental Health and Well-being

Unemployment can be a significant blow to one’s self-esteem, making it challenging to see your value and purpose. However, it’s crucial to recognize that your worth extends beyond your employment status. You are more than your job title. By acknowledging and challenging negative self-talk, you can begin to rebuild your confidence and self-worth. Moreover, understanding that your worth is not defined by your job will help you break free from limiting beliefs.

Developing the Skills You Need to Succeed

Community organisations, like TURSA and the local support services they partner with, offer a range of services and resources to support your journey:

Wage subsidies to help you get hired and stay employed
Training and upskilling programs to enhance your employability
Mental health support and counselling services
Job placement assistance and career coaching

Unlocking Financial Security with Community Support

Community organisations, like TURSA, offer a range of services and resources to support your journey:

Wage subsidies to help you get hired and stay employed
Training and upskilling programs to enhance your employability
Mental health support and counselling services
Job placement assistance and career coaching

Take the First Step Towards Empowerment

Remember, your path to financial security begins with self-help, mental well-being, and skill development. By acknowledging your worth, prioritising your mental health, and investing in your skills, you’ll be better equipped to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

Reach out to TURSA, to discover how we can support your journey towards financial security and a brighter future.

Job Search with Confidence

Tursa Employment and Training Can Help You Overcome Any Barrier to Employment

Are you seeking a job that suits your skills, interests, and goals?
Do you face any barriers or challenges that make your job search more difficult?
Do you want to work with an employment provider that cares about you and your career development?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you must contact Tursa Employment and Training today. TURSA is not just another job agency. They are your allies in finding your ideal job and overcoming any obstacles along the way + they are a FREE service.

TURSA has over 27 years of experience in delivering employment services to people from different backgrounds, including people with disabilities, young people, mature-age workers, and Indigenous Australians. They understand each individual’s unique needs and preferences and provide personalised support and guidance.

Here are some of the benefits of having TURSA assist:

You will have access to a wide range of job vacancies in your local area and online resources and tools to help you with your job search.
You will receive assistance in finding, securing, and maintaining employment and accessing skills training and education.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for various incentives and subsidies, such as wage subsidies, work ready assistance, and work trial programs.
You will be part of a community that values diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility. TURSA has strong connections with local employers, organisations, and support services that can help you with personal and professional development.

Regardless of your barrier, TURSA can help you find a solution. TURSA can provide the support and resources you need to overcome them.

Don’t let anything stop you from pursuing your opportunity to work. Contact Tursa Employment and Training today and discover how they can help you find your next job. Visit their website or call them on 1800 670 914. Your future starts with TURSA.

Zeona’s Journey: Rediscovering Confidence and thriving with the support of TURSA.

In Grafton, we had the opportunity to sit down with Zeona, a remarkable mother of five boys ranging from 9 to 25 years old. Zeona, who had spent years as a stay-at-home mother, needed to rediscover her confidence and direction. With determination and the support of Jeff (Employment Advisor) and TURSA (Training & Employment Job Services Provider), her story developed.

First Step – Study

Before embarking on her journey of self-discovery, Zeona admits to feeling lost and unsure of her aspirations. But determined to make a change, she pushed herself to enrol in a TAFE course on community services. Little did she know that this decision would catalyse her transformation.

Zeona Landed a Job

Zeona’s remarkable journey began when she applied for a job before connecting with Jeff and TURSA. Despite her initial doubts about her qualifications, she secured a potential job and sought guidance from Jeff and support from TURSA. The impact was transformative, reigniting her confidence and igniting a newfound excitement for the future.

Jeff offered Zoena guidance and practical support where it was most needed. This all played a pivotal role in Zeona’s journey of rediscovering her confidence. Jeff identified where TURSA could practically assist. For example, when Zeona needed clothing and shoes for an interview, TURSA ensured she had the necessary resources.

Zeona, with unwavering determination, recalls her experience with TURSA and Jeff as a significant turning point. Their support and belief in her allowed her to secure employment within a month of joining forces. Today, Zeona proudly works as a domestic care worker at Australian Unity.

Zeona’s success doesn’t end there. She is now eagerly training to become a support worker, expanding her skill set to include tasks such as showers and more. With the support and encouragement, she has received, Zeona believes she can step into this new role by the end of the year.

Reflection:

Reflecting on her journey, Zeona expressed gratitude for the support she received from Jeff and TURSA. Zeona felt rediscovering her confidence and career trajectory would not have been possible without their guidance and belief in her potential.

Zeona’s confidence grows with each passing day, proving that anyone can overcome self-doubt and achieve their dreams with the proper support and opportunities. Her inspiring journey is a testament to the transformative power of having someone support and believe in you. A team that is dedicated to empowering individuals and helping them realise their full potential.

As Zeona forges ahead, she is a shining example of resilience and determination, inspiring others to never give up on their goals.

Wanting to take that step but, need a little support to achieve your goals – We are here to assist you!

Many people turn to traditional job agencies for assistance when finding a job. While these agencies can help connect job seekers with potential employers, those who have been long term unemployed, manage a disability or face other barriers to employment often need more support, beyond basic job search assistance.

The Solution

TURSA offers 360-degree support to job seekers, providing comprehensive service throughout the job search process. In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between traditional job agencies and TURSA’s 360-degree support, as well as some tips and hints to land a job that needs more attention.

What traditional job agencies offer

Traditional job agencies typically offer job listings, resume and cover letter reviews, and interview coaching. While these services can be helpful, they often only scratch the surface of what job seekers need to succeed in their search.

What TURSA offer

In contrast, TURSA provides comprehensive 360-degree support to job seekers, including job search assistance, resume and cover letter review, interview coaching, training and education opportunities, and even ongoing support after job placement. This holistic approach addresses all job seekers’ challenges, from finding job opportunities to developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace. In addition to this there is excellent practical support for both job seeker and Employer to access the resources needed to ensure sustainable employment. This includes things like wage subsidies for example.

Tips and hints

When it comes to landing a job, here are some tips and hints that will help:

Network:

As mentioned earlier, networking is one of the most effective ways to land a job. Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and connect with people on LinkedIn to expand your network and increase your chances of finding job opportunities.

Customise your application:

Don’t just send the same generic resume and cover letter to every job you apply for. Take the time to tailor your application to each position, highlighting how your skills and experience match the requirements.

Follow up after an interview:

Don’t just send a thank-you email and wait for a response. Follow up with the hiring manager to inquire about the status of your application and express your continued interest in the position.

Prepare thoroughly:

Research the company, practice common interview questions, and prepare your own questions to ask the interviewer to show that you’re genuinely interested in the job.

Use social media to your advantage:

Follow companies you’re interested in, connect with industry leaders on LinkedIn, and even reach out to hiring managers directly through social media to stand out from other applicants.

By following these tips and seeking comprehensive 360-degree support from TURSA, job seekers can increase their chances of landing the job they want and achieve their potential. If you need support to gain confidence and prepare – aim for a more comprehensive approach that addresses all of your needs as a job seeker.

To access comprehensive 360-degree job support from TURSA, you must be registered with Workforce Australia, Disability Employment Services (DES), Transition to Work or another relevant program. These programs provide funding and support to job seekers who face barriers to employment, such as disability, injury, or a lack of experience or skills.

By registering with these programs and working with TURSA, you can receive the support and guidance you need to overcome these barriers and succeed in your job search. Feel free to contact your local TURSA office to learn more about the registration process and the services available to you.