Support for people with physical disabilities and injuries
A physical disability or injury may change how you work, but it doesn't define what you can achieve.
If you’re eligible for Inclusive Employment Australia, we'll work with you to understand your strengths, goals and support needs so you can find employment that's right for you.
Last year, 18,440 people with physical disabilities or injuries chose APM for employment support. This included more than 10,000 people living with spinal disorders and back pain.
Are you eligible for Inclusive Employment Australia?
Are you eligible for Inclusive Employment Australia?
You may be able to access Inclusive Employment Australia if you:
- Have a disability, injury or health condition
- Are aged 14 to 67
- Are legally able to work in Australia
- Need support to prepare for, find or keep a job
You don't need to receive Centrelink payments to participate. Some people can register directly with APM. Other criteria may apply.
Support that focuses on your abilities
Physical disabilities and injuries affect people in different ways.
Some people may experience changes to mobility, strength, endurance or physical function, while others may require workplace adjustments or specialised equipment.
At APM, we focus on your skills, interests and goals, not your limitations. We work with you to identify employment opportunities that match your abilities and aspirations.
How Inclusive Employment Australia can help
Everyone's experience with a health condition is different. That's why our support is tailored to your individual needs.
Personalised employment support
We'll take the time to understand your health condition, strengths, interests and employment goals.
Build confidence and job readiness
Get support with:
- Resumes and job applications
- Interview preparation
- Confidence building
- Workplace communication
- Career planning
Find and keep a job
We'll help connect you with suitable employers and continue supporting you after you start work.
Physical disabilities and injuries we support
We support people living with a wide range of physical disabilities, injuries and mobility-related conditions, including:
- Back injuries and spinal disorders
- Spinal cord injury
- Lower limb disabilities
- Upper limb disabilities
- Shoulder injuries
- Arm and hand injuries
- Osteoarthritis
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Mobility impairments
- Amputation and limb loss
- Scoliosis
- Physical disabilities caused by illness or injury
- Workplace injuries
- Other physical disabilities and injuries
Employment is possible with the right support
We understand that managing pain, fatigue, mobility challenges or recovery from injury can affect your work options. That's why we tailor our support to your individual circumstances.
Together, we'll explore employment pathways that suit your strengths, goals and lifestyle.
Many people with physical disabilities use workplace adjustments to help them succeed at work.
What happens when you register?
1. Contact APM
Register online or speak with our team.
2. Meet your employment consultant
We'll discuss your goals, interests, strengths and support needs.
3. Create your employment plan
Together we'll identify the support, training and opportunities that may help you achieve your goals.
4. Start your employment journey
We'll help you develop skills, connect with employers and work towards sustainable employment.
Support before and after finding work
Preparing for employment
Access support with resumes, job applications, interview preparation and workplace readiness.
Training and skill development
You may be able to access training, work experience and other activities that support your career goals.
Workplace support
We can help identify workplace adjustments, flexible arrangements and practical supports that may help you succeed at work.
Ongoing support
Once you're employed, we can continue supporting both you and your employer to help you achieve long-term employment success.
Physical disability support organisations and resources
Employment Assistance Fund (EAF)
Financial assistance for workplace modifications, equipment and services.
Spinal Cord Injuries Australia
Support and advocacy for people living with spinal cord injury and other neurological conditions.
Musculoskeletal Australia
Support and information for people living with arthritis, osteoporosis and related conditions.
Australian Pain Management Association
Resources and support for people living with chronic pain.
Limbs 4 Life
Support and information for people living with limb loss.
Jeff's story
After a back injury, Jeff remained determined to find employment and move forward with his career.
Sharon's story
A workplace accident caused permanent damage to Sharon's hand and arm, but with support she was able to continue pursuing employment opportunities.
Maegan's story
Following major scoliosis surgery, Maegan overcame significant challenges to find a job that suited her goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're starting your career, returning to work after an injury, building confidence or exploring new opportunities, APM can help you move towards meaningful employment.