What is a program of support?

If you’re living with a disability, injury or health condition, navigating the job market can be daunting. 

While the journey to employment is filled with many challenges, programs of support can offer guidance, resources, and tailored assistance to ensure no one has to walk this path alone.

Programs of support also help individuals claim the Disability Support Pension (DSP), which can help cover living and support expenses for those who are living with a disability, injury, or health condition.

This article explains what programs of support are, their purpose, their benefits, and how you can access them.

What are programs of support? 

Programs of support are designed to help people living with a disability, injury, or health condition overcome barriers to employment.

Programs provide more than just job placement—they offer a variety of services including career counselling, training, upskilling opportunities, and ongoing support once employment is secured. 

The ultimate goal is to enable job seekers to find not just any job, but the right job. 

Successful job seekers will find themselves in roles that are fulfilling and fit their unique needs and abilities.

Sometimes, people who want to claim the DSP are required by the Australian Government to participate in a program of support as a minimum requirement. 

You will need to show that you have participated in a program of support for at least 18 months in the three years before making a claim for the pension.

Who is required to participate in a program of support

If you want to apply for a Disability Support Pension, you will need to participate in a program of support to be eligible.

You will need to participate if your total impairment rating is 20 points or higher, or if you score less than 20 points on a single impairment category.

To ensure that your participation is counted toward your eligibility for the pension, you are required to actively participate in a program of support. Times where you are not participating won’t count toward your eligibility. 

If for whatever reason you can’t participate, you may be able to get an exemption from your participation obligations. 

If your disability, injury or health condition stops you from staying in a program of support, a shorter period can apply.

The benefits of programs of support

Participating in a program of support opens a world of opportunities for job seekers living with a disability, injury, or health condition. 

These programs are tailored to address your specific challenges, making sure you get the most relevant and effective support. 

Some of the key benefits include:

Personalised advice: From creating a standout resume to preparing for interviews, participants receive one-on-one support customised to their career goals.

Training and upskilling: Many programs offer access to training courses and certifications, providing job seekers with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields.

Navigating job challenges: Whether it’s finding accessible workplaces or negotiating arrangements, these programs offer the expertise and support to help you overcome common employment hardships.

Ongoing support: Once you successfully get a job, programs of support will continue to provide assistance to ensure long-term job satisfaction. 

How to pick the right program of support 

Before applying for a program of support, make sure you do your own research to ensure the provider is a good fit for you. 

When applying, be prepared to share your employment goals, challenges, and what you hope to achieve through the program. 

Keep in mind that the more information you provide, the better the program can customise its support to your needs.

Program of support options

There are many types of programs of support available, including government initiatives, private sector services, and non-profit organisations. Some of the options available include:

• Disability Employment Services (DES)

• Australian Disability Enterprises (ADE)

• Workforce Australia 

• Community Development Program

Two options you might find the most relevant are Disability Employment Services (DES) and Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs).

ADEs provide supported employment to people living with a disability, while DES helps in finding and keeping work.

For those seeking a program of support, APM provides Disability Employment Services to help people living with a disability, injury, or health condition find and keep meaningful work. 

If you’re an eager job seeker, or need assistance in claiming the DSP, APM can provide you with the support you need.

To find out more about your eligibility or to discuss your job goals, get in touch with our team or register online.

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au