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National Panel of Assessors – supporting Australians at work

At APM, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive at work.

As a trusted provider of National Panel of Assessors (NPA) services for more than 15 years, we understand what it takes to help people access the supports they need to succeed in meaningful employment.

If you're a participant of Inclusive Employment Australia, you may be referred for an Ongoing Support Assessment (OSA).

For Supported Wage System (SWS) and Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) assessments, you may be referred by your support provider, employer, or yourself depending on your situation.

We partner with Konekt, part of APM Group, to deliver NPA services across Australia.

Whether you are preparing for or starting a new job, or need help staying in work, we are here to support your journey.

Workplace skill assessment in a commercial kitchen environment, evaluating job performance and safety compliance.

What does the National Panel of Assessors do?

The NPA delivers three types of assessments to help you start, keep, or progress in your job – whether you're at work or preparing to enter the workforce.

1. Ongoing Support Assessment (OSA) 

Checks if you need regular help to stay in your job. Your Inclusive Employment Australia provider may refer you for this assessment if you need extra support.

2. Supported Wage System (SWS) Assessment

If your productivity is affected by disability, this assessment helps set a fair wage that reflects your role and contribution.

3. Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) Assessment 

Identifies practical changes, equipment, or assistive technology to make your workplace safer, more accessible, and better suited to your needs. Delivered in partnership with Job Access and the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF).

Individuals performing manual tasks during a workplace capability assessment to evaluate job readiness and skills.

What to expect in your assessment

Ongoing Support Assessment (OSA)

  • Your assessor will review your work history and supports received.
  • Interviews may be arranged with you, your provider, and (with your consent) your employer.
  • The assessor may visit your workplace.
  • A report is prepared recommending the level of support you need.

Supported Wage System (SWS) Assessment

  • Your employer or Inclusive Employment Australia provider will be contacted to arrange the assessment. 
  • They will then advise you of the assessment. 
  • In supported employment settings, your employer or provider may also help you prepare for the assessment. 
  • The assessor observes you performing your usual tasks.
  • Your wage is calculated based on your performance and discussed with you and your employer.
  • Everyone signs a wage agreement, which is sent to the Fair Work Commission.

Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) Assessment

  • Begins with a JobAccess EAF application.
  • The assessor visits your workplace, meets with you and your employer, and reviews your job tasks.
  • Recommendations for modifications or equipment are provided in a report sent to JobAccess.

When you're referred to us

If you’ve been referred for an assessment, we’ll contact you to explain the process and make sure you feel comfortable and supported. 

You don’t need to book an assessment yourself - referrals are arranged through your provider, the Department of Social Services, or Job Access .

  • If you are an Inclusive Employment Australia participant, your provider will arrange assessments with an NPA provider like APM.
  • If you think a Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) assessment could help, you can learn more on to learn more at Job Access, or ask your employer or support provider to help you get started.
  • If you have questions or need help at any stage, contact your provider, assessor, employer or if relevant, JobAccess. 
  • You can also have a support person, advocate, or family member involved in the process.

When you’re assessed by our team, you will be

  • Treated with respect.
  • Able to ask questions and have someone support you.
  • Given access and ability to update or correct your information.
  • Able to make a complaint if needed.

What you will need to do

  • Provide your consent for the assessment.
  • Take part in interviews and workplace observations.
  • Share information about your job and needs.
  • Review and sign relevant agreements.
Team meeting focused on accessibility and workplace adjustments, including support for employees with assistive needs.

Contact us

APM is proud to work in partnership with Konekt, part of the APM Group to deliver NPA services across Australia.

Together we bring deep experience in disability employment and assessment services, for employees and employment service participants in inclusive workplaces.

Including participants of Inclusive Employment Australia.

If you have questions or need help:

  • Call: 1300 376 431
  • Email: npa@apm.net.au

For providers and employers

Inclusive Employment Australia providers do not need to contact APM directly to request an assessment.

Referrals are arranged through Department of Social Services (for OSA and SWS) and JobAccess (for WMS).

If your employee experiences disability-related barriers in the workplace, you may wish to consider referring them for a Workplace Modifications Services (WMS) assessment via JobAccess. 

This process can help identify practical changes, equipment, or assistive technology to support your employee in their role. 

Working together with JobAccess and your employee, you can help create a safer, more accessible, and productive workplace. 

Learn more about supporting workplace adjustments with the JobAccess Workplace Adjustment Passport.

For questions or advice

  • Phone: 1300 376 431 
  • Email: npa@apm.net.au

Complaints and feedback

We welcome your feedback. If you have a concern or complaint:

We’ll acknowledge your complaint within 2 business days and aim to resolve it within 10 business days. If you need support, you can ask a family member, friend, advocate, or support provider to help you. 

You can also seek independent advice or representation.

If your concern isn’t resolved, you can contact the Complaints Resolution and Referral Service: 

Consent and Privacy

Before your assessment, you will be asked to give consent to take part in the assessment and for your personal information to be collected, used and shared as part of the process. Consent is provided by signing a privacy consent form. If you are unable to sign the form, your assessor will help you record your verbal consent. If you do not provide your consent or withdraw it, the assessment cannot proceed.

Your Privacy

We take your privacy seriously. Your information is protected under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). You have the right to access and correct your personal information. For details, see our Privacy Policy or contact privacy@apm.net.au.

Freedom of Information

You can request access to documents related to your assessment under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth). Visit foi.gov.au or contact us for help.