Inclusive Illawarra paves the way for disability employment

With one in five Australians living with a disability, making employment opportunities accessible for all is paramount for local businesses. Inclusive practices give employers access to wider skillsets and provide pathways for local community members with disabilities to achieve independence and economic empowerment.

The two-hour forum, hosted by SSI Ability Links NSW, in partnership with the Illawarra Business Chamber, aims to build confidence and capacity for businesses to recruit, advance and maintain inclusive workplaces by demonstrating what that looks like on a local and national level.

SSI Ability Links Operations Manager Ben Fioramonte, said, “Committing to a diverse workforce and inclusive team environment is a must for all businesses and organisations. Employing people of all abilities is key to providing goods and services that reflect the need of individuals and the community”.

Beyond Blue ambassador Brett Saunders will provide a keynote address, highlighting the growing need for businesses to better understand workplace mental health and how employers can create mentally healthy workplaces.

The forum will also feature a panel discussion that will look at removing barriers and creating inclusive work environments.

Panellists include:

Thomas Kuzma (Host and Facilitator) – Engagement Officer, Autism Spectrum Australia
Kylie van Luyn – Employment Services and Social Enterprise Director, Settlement Services International
Jason White – National Manager, Business Development & Engagement, Specialisterne Australia
Alan Gibson – Director, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort
Mina Aziz – Professional Adviser, Job Access
Elise Kiviniemi – Disability Employment Service (DES) client, staff member, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort

What: Workplace Disability & Inclusion Employer Forum
When: Thursday, June 20, 11.00am – 1.30pm
Where: Lagoon Restaurant, Conference Room, Stuart Park, George Hanley Drive, North Wollongong

About SSI:

Settlement Services International is a community organisation and social business that supports newcomers and other Australians to achieve their full potential. We work with all people who have experienced vulnerability, including refugees, people seeking asylum and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, to build capacity and enable them to overcome inequality.

Media Enquiries:

SSI Communications Officer Greg Clennar – gclennar@ssi.org.au / 0417 687 064