Services Australia has launched a pilot program to help people with autism find meaningful work in the Australian Public Service (APS).
In a statement, the Agency said 11 new staff members had joined Services Australia as part of the Aurora Neurodiversity Program, helping people with autism find meaningful work in the APS by matching their unique skills and talents to specialist roles.
“One of our recruits based in Brisbane, has shared his experience of the recruitment and assessment process and his first impressions of the program,” the Agency said.
‘Cameron’ said he welcomed going into a new job confident he had shown what he was capable of and how he interacted with others.
“I’ve struggled with a bit of imposter syndrome in the past, but after the thorough training and assessment program, I really felt I could demonstrate who I am and what I could do,” Cameron was reported as saying.
“I don’t feel as though I have to try and prove myself, I’m ready to just get in and learn the work.”
Services Australia said Cameron was one of many Australians with autism who had encountered barriers to gaining full time employment.
“Only 38 per cent of working-age Australians with autism are employed, with an unemployment rate eight times higher compared to people without a disability,” it said.
“One of the major challenges people with autism face when it comes to finding work is the recruitment process itself. Many apply for hundreds of jobs without making it past the interview stage.”
Services Australia said its Aurora Neurodiversity Program was helping to bridge the gap with a unique recruitment, support and development approach.
“The program puts candidates through a four-week recruitment process, which allows them time to showcase their skills and talents,” it said.
More information about the Program can be accessed on the Services Australia website this PS News link.
