The Water Corporation has announced a new work experience placement and traineeship program aimed at improving disability access and inclusion.
Announcing the initiative on International Day of People with Disability, Minister for Water, Dave Kelly said the Corporation would offer 10 work experience placements and five school-based traineeships on a rolling basis,
Due to begin in March 2021, the program is an action under Water Corporation’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) and supports its commitment to increase employment of people with disability to five per cent by 2025.
The program is one of a range of DAIP-related initiatives the Water Corporation has implemented this year.
In September, it partnered with National Disability Services WA on its Building the Talent Pool program, to enhance its policies and processes and improve employment pathways and participation for people with disability.
It also extended its engagement with Disability Employment Service providers to build a talent pool, and recently prioritised selection for some contact centre positions with the long-term aim of having all roles available to people with disability.
Mr Kelly said research from Disabled People’s Organisations Australia showed many young people with disability did not enter the labour market in the seven years following their education, and they were more likely to experience long-term unemployment.
“This sobering statistic highlights the vital importance of boosting the employability of school leavers with disability and prioritising the advertising and selection of roles to help redress the disadvantages they can encounter,” Mr Kelly said.
“The Water Corporation’s forthcoming work experience and traineeship program will provide valuable insights in a supportive environment, helping these young people enter the job market.”
