Exploring NDIS Disability Employment Services: Empowering Inclusion Through Work!
- Shaun Chaudhry
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Summary:
Disability Employment Services (DES) help individuals with disability, injury, or health conditions prepare for and maintain employment.
DES is divided into two streams: Disability Management Services (DMS) and Employment Support Services (ESS).
The NDIS complements DES by funding additional supports such as transport, job-readiness training, and workplace assistance.
DES providers work with employers to create inclusive, accessible, and supportive workplaces.
Introduction
Gaining and keeping meaningful employment is a key part of independence and personal growth. For people living with a disability, finding the right job can come with unique challenges—but with the right support, it’s absolutely achievable. That’s where Disability Employment Services (DES) and the NDIS work together to make employment goals possible.
What Are Disability Employment Services (DES)?
DES is a government program that supports people with disability, injury, or health conditions to enter and stay in the workforce. It consists of two main support streams:
1. Disability Management Services (DMS)
This stream supports people who need help to find work but may not require long-term assistance once employed. DMS provides short-term interventions such as job search support and guidance.
2. Employment Support Services (ESS)
This stream assists people with a permanent disability who need ongoing, consistent workplace support. It focuses on both finding suitable employment and helping individuals maintain their job long-term.
How the NDIS Supports Employment
Although DES is a separate program, the NDIS can complement it by funding supports that help participants work towards their job goals. These may include:
Workplace support workers
Transport to and from work
Training in soft skills like communication or time management
Assistive technology in the workplace
Capacity building support for job readiness
With increased flexibility in employment supports, participants now have more control over where and how they work, and who provides their supports. This creates greater opportunities for people with disabilities to enter open or supported employment based on their strengths and interests.
Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs)
Many participants receiving employment support may work with Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs). These organisations provide supported employment opportunities in inclusive work environments. ADEs allow people with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to the workforce while building skills, earning income, and gaining confidence.
Creating Inclusive Workplaces Through DES
DES providers don’t just support participants—they also work closely with employers to create inclusive and accessible workplaces. Their services include:
Advising on reasonable workplace adjustments, such as:
Modified tasks or equipment
Flexible working hours
Assistive technologies
Ongoing communication and support to ensure smooth integration
Promoting inclusive recruitment practices
Through this collaboration, employers gain access to a broader talent pool and benefit from a more diverse and innovative workforce.
Benefits and Broader Impact
NDIS and DES together support individuals to:
Build skills and independence
Secure stable and rewarding employment
Improve overall wellbeing and financial stability
But the benefits don’t stop at the individual level. Employers gain access to loyal, capable staff members, and communities grow stronger through increased diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
How Proactive Plan Managers Can Help
At Proactive Plan Managers, we’re here to support you on your path to employment by:
Helping you understand your NDIS plan and available supports
Ensuring quick and reliable payments to providers
Coordinating with your support team to align funding with your employment goals
Providing guidance on accessing additional supports that enhance your work journey
While we don’t provide DES services directly, we can connect you with the right resources and providers so that you’re set up for success.
Conclusion
NDIS Disability Employment Services are essential in helping individuals with disability, injury, or health conditions pursue and maintain meaningful work. These services foster inclusive environments, empower personal growth, and promote equal opportunity for all.
With tailored support, inclusive employers, and the guidance of a dedicated plan manager, participants can unlock their potential and build a fulfilling career path.
Proactive Plan Managers
📞 0434 425 855
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