20 years on – how Benjamin turned tragedy into triumph

Two decades in a rewarding career is something every employee and employer can celebrate.

For Benjamin Miller, it also marks 20 years of securing a job where he would discover new skills, navigate unexpected challenges, and become a valuable support for people needing help.

When he was just 21, a walk home with his brother ended in tragedy when he fell headfirst into a stormwater drain, resulting in severe injuries.

The accident left him blind in one eye and with only 10% vision in the other.

Additionally, he lost all hearing in one ear and his sense of smell.

The physical and emotional toll was immense, but Benjamin’s resolve was even stronger.

Before the accident, Benjamin worked on a farm and as a labourer, jobs that required physical strength and dexterity.

The idea of working in an office was foreign to him.

It was the support he received from APM all those years ago that helped Benjamin embark on a new career path, and the support he still remembers today.

Getting back in touch with us

After seeing some recent videos of APM clients sharing their stories of finding successful employment while living with a disability, Benjamin reached out to share his own experience from more than 20 years ago.

“I didn’t have any computer skills, they were foreign to me,” Benjamin recalls.

“APM linked me up with computer courses and organised work experience in an office setting. They helped me work on the skills I didn’t have and strengthen the ones I did.”

“I still remember the day I had the interview and got the job. My support worker came with me and we were singing in the car together afterwards.”

Adjusting to work

Benjamin’s new role involved receiving calls from people about accessing housing support.

“I was answering the phone for all the inquiries coming in,” Benjamin says.

“Sometimes people would talk about their disabilities, and it was amazing to hear their stories. I could manage the computer work needed to look up their files and answer their questions.”

Benjamin’s ability to empathise with clients and provide them with the support they needed made him an invaluable asset to the team.

His supervisors recognised his unique skills and ensured that he had the necessary tools to perform his job effectively.

Benjamin learned to use assistive technologies, such as screen readers and enlarged monitors, to perform his job effectively.

Despite his limited vision, he developed a system that allowed him to read documents and navigate computer screens.

“My best eyesight is a few inches in front of my face, so I read the monitor up close,” Benjamin explains.

“I also use a screen reader for longer documents. It’s tiring, but it helps a lot.”

A supportive work environment

One of the keys to Benjamin’s success has been the supportive environment from his employer.

His colleagues and supervisors have always been understanding and accommodating, ensuring that he has the tools and support he needs to excel.

“I’ve always had good support around me,” Benjamin says.

“If I needed help, there was always someone there. It’s been a collaborative effort.”

The organisation continuously adapted to his needs, providing him with updated technology and resources as they became available.

This ongoing support was crucial in helping Benjamin maintain his productivity and job satisfaction.

“I’ve had an extra big monitor with enhanced resolution,” Benjamin explains.

“I also use a screen reader for documents that are too lengthy to read. These tools have been essential in helping me perform my job.”

“People often underestimate what those with disabilities can do."

Advocating for others with disability 

Benjamin’s experience has given him a unique perspective on the importance of supporting people with disabilities in the workplace.

He believes that understanding and accommodation are crucial for enabling individuals to contribute effectively.

“People often underestimate what those with disabilities can do,” Benjamin says.

“It’s important to have an open mind and be willing to make adjustments. Everyone has something valuable to offer.”

Benjamin also highlights the importance of having people with disabilities in roles where they can support others facing similar challenges.

“You need people who can relate to them and explain things in a way they understand,” he says.

“It’s important to have an open mind and be willing to make adjustments. Everyone has something valuable to offer.”

Finding purpose and employment

For Benjamin, having a job has been about more than just financial security. It has provided him with a sense of purpose and belonging.

“It’s a reason to get up and feel like you’re part of an organisation, part of the community,” he says.

“It helps with living independently by earning an income, but feeling like part of something is a big thing for me.”

Benjamin has participated in various initiatives aimed at promoting disability inclusion in the workplace.

His insights and experiences have been invaluable in shaping policies and practices that support employees with disabilities.

One of his proudest moments came when he was asked to speak to ACT Legislative Assembly about this employment and the importance of having a secure job.

In a speech to the reception room of dignitaries and officials, Benjamin detailed the impact of his accident and how he had adapted to life with the help of employment and support services.

The speech was a huge success and highlighted the value of hiring people with disability as well as the various tools and modifications available to enable people to succeed in the workplace.

“I get some strange looks walking into the cinema with my white cane.”

Outside work

Benjamin enjoys a variety of activities that help him relax and unwind.

One of his favourite pastimes is going to the cinema. The dark and quiet setting, along with the big screen, suits his level of vision and hearing.

While he can’t help but laugh at the curious looks when he heads into the movies.

“I get some strange looks walking into the cinema with my white cane,” Benjamin laughs.

“But I love the experience of watching movies on the big screen. When the lights go down and everything’s quiet. It’s my little escape.”

Benjamin has also enjoyed travelling.

Following his accident, one of the ways he first adjusted to life with a disability was by travelling around Australia with his parents in a caravan.

“It was big learning curve and helped me build up a lot of confidence by being put in strange and unusual situations.”

‘Give anyone a go’

After years answering public calls, Benjamin is now an admin support officer in the local government housing and homeless program, where he continues to help other people in need.

With 20 years’ experience behind him, Benjamin’s journey has equipped him with valuable insights.

He emphasises the importance for people with disability, or who suddenly experienced life-changing events, to seek support and not being afraid to ask for help.

“Speak up and seek out the support and services available,” he says.

“It can be hard to know where to start, but once you find the right help, it can change your life for the better.”

Benjamin also encourages employers to give more people with disability a chance, highlighting the unique perspectives and skills they bring to the workplace.

“Give anyone a go,” Benjamin says.

“Even though we have disabilities, we can still do the work. Sometimes we just do it differently. You’ll find that people with disabilities can be a great asset to your team.”