Broadening his employment horizons

Achieving employment success in a new industry

After a period of long-term unemployment, Abdi was looking to return to the workforce.

Having previously working in the hospitality industry, he was seeking to work in another industry where he could transfer his skills to.

Abdi met with Employment Consultant David at APM’s Victoria Park office, located near the Perth CBD.

He expressed a desire to work with animals as he enjoyed his role as a doggy day care assistant.

Abdi said he was looking for a role outside of hospitality after his last role had a negative impact on his mental health.

During COVID-19 lockdowns there was a shortage of work across a few industries, so David asked Abdi whether he would transfer his skills somewhere new.

Abdi felt nervous about the job interview process, unsure of how to disclose or discuss how he managed his mental health.

When researching suitable roles for Abdi, David thought a role with lower levels of social contact could be beneficial for him.

David discussed with Abdi the possibility of working as a traffic controller and Abdi agreed to ‘give it a go’.

APM paid for Abdi’s traffic controller course, personal protective equipment (PPE) and interview preparation.

After a sustained effort of reverse marketing by David, Abdi finally gained a job interview at Contraflow.

With support from APM to shore up his job interview skills and practicing interview questions, Abdi secured a job!

After a period of years away from the workplace, he was successful in securing a role with support from the Disability Employment Services program delivered by APM.

APM Employment Services has supported more than 120,000 job seekers with an injury, illness, or disability into work over the last two years.

Abdi was elated to have achieved one of his employment goals in a new industry.

Today Abdi has successfully surpassed his 26-week (six month) employment milestone in his role.

David has stayed in touch with Abdi, as part of APM’s post-placement support for all participants, contributing to improved employee retention and presenteeism.

Having more stable employment has bolstered Abdi’s mental health and wellbeing, helping him to maintain positive habits.

He looks forward to work every day and plans to stay in this industry for years to come.


Injury, illness or disability and want to work?

You could be eligible for help in finding a suitable job from APM Employment Services.

As Australia’s largest provider of the Disability Employment Services program we help thousands of people with permanent or temporary disabilities, injuries, mental health conditions and other diagnosed barriers which may prevent them finding successful employment.

If you want to find out more, register with us today, or call our team on 1800 276 276 for more information.

Read a full transcript of this video.

Looking for staff?

We don’t just support job seekers, we also help thousands of employers find reliable staff and access government incentives when hiring new employees.

If you’re an employer, you could access wage subsidies, plus funds for training and workplace modifications when hiring a person with disability for full or part-time work.

Plus, you will be enhancing the diversity of your business while making a real positive difference in a person’s life.

Find out more about this rewarding opportunity for employers by speaking to your nearest APM Employment Services team, or emailing support@apm.net.au.