A New Perspective on Disability Employment for Cairns – Inclusive Employment Australia

Update: We’re now delivering Inclusive Employment Australia to Far North Queensland. Find out More.

At Workways, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to find work they love. That’s why we’re thrilled to be bringing Inclusive Employment Australia to the Cairns region!

 

DES is Becoming Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA)

 

From 1 November 2025, Disability Employment Services (DES) will transition to Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA), and Workways is excited to be delivering this new program to the Cairns region.

 

If you’re ready to take the next step on your employment path, and have a disability, injury, or health condition, we’re here to help you navigate this exciting change. Click here to register your interest for the program launch.

If you’re an employer wanting to build an inclusive workforce, register your interest here and we’ll in touch to discuss how we can support your recruitment needs.

 

What’s New with Inclusive Employment Australia

 

Broader Access
More people will be able to access the new program, including people with an assessed work capacity of less than 8 hours per week, and voluntary participants not getting a Centrelink income support payment.

No Time Limits
There will no longer be a two-year limit on the time people can stay in the program.

Enhanced Support
People aged 15 and over with disability, injury or a health condition can receive support through services including personalised job coaching, skills development, employer engagement, workplace supports and long-term mentoring.

 

Support for Jobseekers

 

Our passion is helping you discover work that truly fits your needs and interests. We’re not just about finding you a job – we’re about finding you the right job. We understand that starting a job search can feel overwhelming , so that’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way:

• One-on-one coaching that celebrates your strengths and builds toward your career dreams
• Skills development and training to build work readiness and confidence
• Job search assistance including resume writing and interview preparation
• Workplace modifications and assistive technology assessments
• On-the-job support meaning we’re right there with you as you settle into your new role, ensuring you feel confident and supported
• Career progression planning to help you advance in your chosen field
• Ongoing mentoring for long-term career success

Finding the right job takes time, and we’re committed to being supportive partners in your journey. If you’re in the Cairns region, click here to register your interest for Inclusive Employment Australia.

 

Support for Employers

 

Partner with Talented Individuals
Connect with talented individuals who are eager to contribute their skills across the Cairns region, whether you’re located in Cairns, Innisfail, Tully, Port Douglas, or Edmonton.

Expert Workplace Guidance
Get professional advice on inclusive recruitment practices, workplace modifications, and creating supportive work environments.

Financial Incentives
You may be eligible to access wage subsidies to help offset training and integration costs.

Ongoing Partnership
Receive continuous support to ensure successful, sustainable employment outcomes for both your business and employees.

If you’re an employer wanting to build an inclusive workforce, register your interest here and we’ll in touch to discuss how we can support your recruitment needs.

 

What Happens During the Transition?

 

Current DES Participants

Current DES participants will receive individual communications and information about the new program before it starts. The Department of Social Services will guide you through the transition process.

New Participants

If you’re looking for work with an injury, illness or disability and haven’t accessed employment services before, Workways may be able to help you. Register your interest below and we’ll be in touch when the program is ready to launch.

 

Why Choose Workways as your IEA provider in Cairns?

 

Local Expertise
Deep connections throughout the Cairns region – from Cairns city to Innisfail, Tully, Port Douglas, and Edmonton – with proven results in disability employment services.

Person-Centred Approach
Tailored support that puts your goals and needs at the centre of everything we do.

Strong Employer Network
Established relationships with employers across the Cairns region, including Innisfail, Tully, Port Douglas, and Edmonton, who are committed to inclusive hiring.

Comprehensive Support
From job readiness to long-term career development, we’re with you every step of the way.

 

Get Ready for Inclusive Employment Australia

Register Your Interest – Click here

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Inclusive Employment Australia?

Inclusive Employment Australia is a new specialist disability employment program that will replace the Disability Employment Program later in 2025.

 

When does IEA start?

Inclusive Employment Australia will begin on 1 November 2025.

 

How is IEA different from DES?

IEA offers broader eligibility, no time limits, more flexible support options, and an enhanced focus on both job seeker and employer needs.

 

Who is eligible for IEA?

The program will help people with disability as well as those with injury or health condition to prepare for, find and maintain work, and grow their career. You may be eligible for Inclusive Employment Australia if you:

1. Have an assessed work capacity of up to 30 hours per week due to a disability, injury or health condition. This includes, people with an assessed work capacity of less than 8 hours per week (new under IEA)
2. Are aged 15 years and over

 

Do current DES participants need to do anything?

Current DES participants will receive individual communications and information about the new program before it starts. The Department will guide you through the transition process.

 

What support is available for employers?

Employers will be able to access expert guidance from providers on recruitment and workplace practices, and may be eligible for wage subsidies.

 

Is there a time limit on support?

There will no longer be a limit on the time people can stay in the program.

 

What types of disabilities and conditions does IEA support?

Whether you have a diagnosed or non-diagnosed disability, we’re here to help you find meaningful and sustainable employment in Cairns. Our disability employment services support people with:

• Physical disabilities – visible and non-visible conditions affecting mobility, strength, or dexterity
• Mental health conditions – including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges
• Neurodivergence – including ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, and other neurological differences
• Intellectual and cognitive disabilities – including learning difficulties, acquired brain injuries, and developmental delays
• Chronic illness – conditions like diabetes, heart disease, chronic fatigue, or autoimmune disorders
• Injured workers – workplace injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or other acquired conditions
• Sensory impairments – vision or hearing loss requiring workplace accommodations