Big changes are coming to Disability Employment Services

By Sammi

Participants in Disability Employment Services
Participants in Disability Employment Services
Photo Google Gemini


Big changes are happening in the world of disability employment in Australia. On November 1, 2025, the Disability Employment Services (DES) program will be replaced by a new program called Inclusive Employment Australia.

This new program is designed to better help people with a disability, illness, or health condition find and keep a job. The goal is to create a more inclusive and supportive system that meets the unique needs of job seekers and employers.

What does this mean for you?

If you are currently on the DES program, you don't need to do anything. You will be automatically moved to Inclusive Employment Australia on November 1, 2025. Your current work arrangements and payments will not be affected by this change.

This is a significant step toward making employment more accessible for all Australians. Inclusive Employment Australia aims to provide a smoother, more effective pathway to employment, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the workforce.

Key takeaways:

  • What's changing? Disability Employment Services (DES) is being replaced by Inclusive Employment Australia.

  • When is it happening? November 1, 2025.

  • What do I need to do? Nothing. If you're currently on DES, your transfer to the new program will be automatic.

  • Will my work or payments be affected? No. There will be no changes to your current arrangements.

Inclusive Employment Australia is set to provide a more tailored and flexible range of support to people with disability, illness, or health conditions.1 The new program will focus on individualized services and will also offer support to employers to create more inclusive workplaces.2

Key Support for Job Seekers:

  • Personalised support: Providers will offer a person-centred approach, developing a plan that is specific to your skills, abilities, and career goals.3 This includes help with resume writing, interview preparation, and finding suitable job opportunities.4

  • Intensive and flexible services: The program will provide both intensive support for those who need to get ready for work and more flexible options for individuals who are already job-ready.5

  • Expanded eligibility: More people will be able to access the new program, including those with a work capacity of less than 8 hours per week and voluntary participants who aren't receiving a Centrelink payment.6

  • No time limit:7 Unlike the previous program, there will be no two-year limit on how long people can receive support.8

  • Ongoing workplace support: You will have continued access to a provider for up to 12 months after you've secured a job to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success. This can include on-the-job training and help with communication with your employer and co-workers.9

  • Workplace modifications and funding: Inclusive Employment Australia will help you access funding through the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) for things like assistive technology, physical workplace modifications, and disability awareness training for staff.10

Key Support for Employers:

  • Recruitment and retention guidance: Providers will work with employers to identify their business needs, find suitable candidates, and provide support to help them retain employees with disability.11

  • Wage subsidies: A new, simplified wage subsidy of up to $10,000 will be available to help employers cover upfront costs and encourage them to create sustainable jobs.12

  • Disability awareness training: Employers can access training to help their staff and leaders become more confident in working with and supporting employees with disability.13

  • Free expert advice: The JobAccess service will continue to provide free, expert advice to employers and people with disability on a range of topics, including workplace adjustments and legal requirements.14

Location: Australia

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