Text Size

Translate Page

Call 1800 276 276

Disability Employment Services

Find a job that's right for you with help from APM Employment Services.

Banner feature Purple and navy gradient
Man smiling leaning on a barrier in a warehouse in an orange top

Choose what defines you

You might like footy, writing, or visiting the beach. You might be a Mum, Dad or an amazing karaoke singer.

When you register for Disability Employment Services (DES), we start by getting to know and understand you.

We discuss your interests, the type of work you would like to do, and your employment goals. Then we work together to help you achieve your goals and find the right job for you.

You may be eligible for training courses to prepare for your ideal job, or support to search and apply for work while managing personal challenges.

Whatever your goal, your support is unique.

What is DES?

Disability Employment Services (DES) is a program to help people with a disability, injury, or health condition, prepare for, find and succeed in a job and career development.

If you're eligible for DES, we work with you to tailor your support to meet your specific needs.

It may include helping you:

  • prepare for joining the workforce
  • train in specific job skills
  • write resumes and job applications
  • boost your interview skills
  • look for fulfilling and suitable jobs
  • meet local employers
  • access health or other local support services


Read a full transcript of this video.

See translations of this video in our other languages page.

An APM consultant talks to a worker outside

When you start working, we may also help with:

  • on-the-job training
  • access to uniforms, tools or equipment
  • speaking to your boss and co-workers
  • ongoing support in your job
  • modifying your workplace


Register now

Get started in three easy steps

Step one

Register with us, and we'll be in touch in the next few days to discuss your eligibility and how to join DES with APM.

artwork of a job seeker registering for DES with APM
Step two

If you're eligible, you'll meet your APM employment consultant and tell them your interests, goals and challenges.

artwork of a DES participant meeting an APM consultant
Step three

You get to work with your employment consultant and start your plan for new skills, training or a job that’s right for you.

DES0029__Stage-3

Am I eligible for DES?

If you have a disability, injury, or health condition that impacts how much you can work, you may be able to join DES if you are:

  • aged 14 to 67 and legally allowed to work
  • getting a support payment or the Disability Support Pension
  • an NDIS participant or eligible school leaver

Other eligibility criteria may also apply. 

Learn more at DES eligibility or chat to us to find out if you can join.

Call 1800 276 276 or click below to register and we'll be in touch.

DES eligibility
DES participant Alexander in a blue top smiles in an APM office

Why people choose to join APM

We know how important the right job can be for your health and happiness. 

It shows there’s more to you than your disability, injury or health condition. 

We know because APM has been helping Australians thrive in the workplace for more than 30 years. 

APM Employment Services is also Australia’s largest provider of Disability Employment Services, with our teams delivering the program to more regions than any other provider.

Register now
Gary chose to get back on his feet and find a job he loves
DES participant Gary in a black top and cap
Ngaire chose to find a fulfilling career she could succeed in
DES participant Ngaire in a black top outside rural buildings
Sean chose to find a job to match his skills and interests
DES participant Sean smiles in his new workplace
Robyn chose to upskill and find a rewarding new job
DES participant Robyn smiles in a black top
Eric chose to look for a job with a sense of purpose
DES participant Eric in an Australia sports top outside his home
Melissa chose a job with strong links to her community
DES participant Sean smiles in his new workplace

When you start with APM

We set up your first appointment so you can meet your dedicated employment consultant

They will listen to your challenges and what you want to achieve. 

They're your guide to getting the most from DES. This includes:

  • discussing your disability, injury, or health condition, and the support you need to achieve your goals
  • providing you with a copy of our Service Guarantee and Code of Practice
  • explaining your rights, obligations and prepare a job plan to help you stay on track
  • exploring how to best search for a job or other career-related goals
Register now
DES participant Zac smiles with an APM employment consultant

When you find a job

When you start working, we’re still here for you.

Your APM employment consultant will check in with you regularly to see how you’re going and help with any challenges you may have.

If you need us, we can provide on-the-job support, which may include workplace modifications, skills training, and other assistance to help you succeed at work.

And we can also meet with your employer and co-workers to ensure a supportive work environment.

We’re here to help you for at least 12 months once you start your new job, making sure you feel supported and confident at work for the long term.

Register now
DES participant Ngaire with her employer and APM consultant walking outside a rural property