Inclusive employment

A comprehensive guide for creating a culture of inclusion for people with disability in your organisation

This free ebook is designed to help organisations create a culture of inclusion in the workplace. It busts some of the myths around employing people with a disability and provides detailed information and resources to support businesses on their journey to become more inclusive.

Studies show that labour force participation rates for people with disability have changed little over the last 20 years
People with disabilities have fewer options when it comes to meaningful employment and access to career development opportunities.

People with diverse abilities bring unique talents, skills and insights to the workplace that can lead to improved morale, better staff retention rates and competitive advantages. But many businesses are uncertain about legal requirements and how to prepare an accessible workplace. There are also misconceptions around costs and employee performance.

As a founding member of the Inclusive Employment Movement, Leap in! has created this ebook to help employers provide better access to career development and opportunities for people of all abilities.

Download the Inclusive Employment ebook by clicking the button or use the links in the sections below to read more about each topic.

Download your free ebook

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Advantages of workplace inclusion.

Adopting an inclusive workplace delivers benefits for businesses, employees and the community. Studies show that many people with a disability want to work and can become a valuable asset to the business.

People with diverse abilities bring a wealth of new ideas, talents and experiences, help to build resilience and improve the businesses’ ability to connect with customers.

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What does the law say?

Equality of opportunity in employment is enshrined in federal and state legislation. Businesses that discriminate against a person in employment because of a disability may be breaking the law.

Some basic familiarisation can demystify the legal requirements and inform the development of more inclusive policies and procedures. Find out more about the relevant legislation.

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Smashing misconceptions and myths.

While there are myriad benefits for businesses that employ people with diverse abilities, uncertainty around providing support, legal obligations and accessibility are often cited as barriers for employers.

On average, people with disabilities take fewer days off, less sick leave and stay in jobs longer than other workers. Read on to find out the facts.

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Taking the first steps towards inclusive employment.

Inclusive employment should be part of an organisation-wide culture of inclusion and accessibility that incorporates your products or services, employment policies and community engagement.

We review some of the initial steps employers can take such as getting everyone on board, benchmarking and how to convert intention to action with an Accessibility Action Plan.

Young lady in a wheelchair in her loungeroom holding a coffee

Recruiting people with diverse abilities.

Inclusive workplaces start with job design where roles and job descriptions are created with accessibility and inclusion in mind.

We provide tips for making roles more attractive to suitably qualified prospective employees with diverse abilities and what to consider when it comes to position descriptions, advertisements and interviews.

Man in a wheelchair at his office desk wearing headphones

Preparing your workplace.

How do you prepare for welcoming more diverse employees into your workforce and workplace?

In this section, we consider a whole of business approach, the importance of internal engagement and the role of assistive technology. We also explore some of the funding and grant options that can support you as an employer.

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Creating a culture of inclusion.

An inclusive workplace is one where people treat each other with respect and consideration, where every individual feels comfortable in their own skin and has equal opportunities to contribute and progress their career goals.

We explore ways to create a more welcoming culture including workplace etiquette, using inclusive person-first language and building career progression strategies.

Man in a wheelchair addressing a meeting room filled with people

Assistance and support.

A range of programs and supports are available for businesses exploring opportunities to employ people with diverse abilities. This includes free information and support services, funding to purchase assistive technology and a supported wage system.

Wage subsidies may also be available for employers that meet certain criteria.

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