Inclusive employment is more than a buzzword – it’s a commitment to ensuring people of all abilities are given equal access to meaningful work. For Stephen, a motivated and skilled job seeker with hearing loss, inclusive employment meant finding purpose, connection, and a workplace that recognised his potential.
His story is the perfect example of how inclusive hiring practices can unlock the talents of people with disability, and the enormous value they bring to businesses.
A New Chapter After Long-Term Unemployment
Stephen, who has a sensory disability in the form of progressive hearing loss, hadn’t worked in four years before coming to VisAbility through the CoAct network. Despite a solid background in logistics, warehouse operations and customer service, the experience of being long-term unemployed had taken a toll.
“Being long term unemployed can take a real hit to your confidence. It leaves you questioning yourself and your value,” Stephen shared.
After years of physical work leading to injuries, Stephen made the courageous decision to pivot careers. He completed a Business Ready Certificate through TAFE to transition into an office-based role, easing the physical strain on his body. He also took the initiative to gain voluntary experience with the Mundaring Hills Historical Society, demonstrating his commitment to upskilling.
A Turning Point at the Perth Jobs Expo
Stephen first connected with VisAbility at the Careers Expo at Perth Convention Centre in June 2024. It was there that he met Workforce Partner, Lianne, who welcomed him and supported him through the registration process.
“I saw the event online and decided to go. I was proactively looking for opportunities. When I came across the VisAbility kiosk, it just felt right.”
Soon after, he received a follow-up call from Jason Rowland inviting him to an information session. By the time Stephen was on the train home from that session, employment specialist Qonrad had already called to offer a job lead. Less than a month later, Stephen started work.
A Perfect Match of Skills and Culture
Stephen is now employed in an office-based role where he thrives, applying his years of customer service experience and his newly acquired admin skills in a varied and fulfilling position. With the support of Lianne and Greg, he was able to settle nicely into this role within a few months.
“This job has been personally and professionally an absolute blessing for me,” he said. “I work in all areas of the office here in a very varied role, working with a great team. The staff at VisAbility have been very supportive, friendly and willing to help.”
Greg, one of the CoAct VisAbility staff members who supported Stephen, described him as having a “friendly, helpful attitude, a hunger to improve, and a positive outlook on life.”
Technical adjustments were minimal. Stephen uses Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids to support him with phone calls, but it’s his self-motivation and adaptability that have stood out.
“I’ve seen Stephen’s confidence grow and his pride in his work shine through,” Greg said. “The affirmation this job has provided to his mental wellbeing has been outstanding.”
Inclusive Employment Benefits Everyone
This story is about more than just one person’s success. It’s a testament to what happens when inclusive employment practices align with the right candidate and the right workplace.
The match was a perfect fit for Stephen—and equally valuable for the employer. His professionalism, lived experience and willingness to learn have added enormous value to the business.
“This has been one of the best jobs I’ve ever had,” Stephen says. “And the confidence boost from the support, the fast turnaround, and the great feedback from staff—it’s made a real difference.”
Stephen’s Top Three Achievements
- Career transformation: Transitioning from physically demanding work into an administrative role through education and perseverance.
- Volunteering to gain office skills: Demonstrating initiative and a desire to grow.
- Proactive job seeking: Taking the leap to attend the Jobs Expo, step out of his comfort zone, and connect with the right people.
Why This Story Matters
Stephen’s experience shows the high calibre of job seekers in VisAbility’s cohort. Despite challenges, Stephen applied himself to training, volunteered to gain new skills, and made meaningful connections that led to sustainable, rewarding work. His story is proof that with the right support and an inclusive approach to employment, great things are possible.
“Absolutely, I’d recommend VisAbility. The support has been friendly, professional and so helpful.”
Are you an employer looking to hire capable, motivated staff with diverse experiences? Or a job seeker ready to take your next step?
Talk to us today about how we can support inclusive employment that works for everyone. Complete the form below or phone 08 9311 8202 to speak with a member of the CoAct VisAbility team.