Recognising a need for change

Scott in his hi-vis work uniform standing next to his tow truck

When Scott recognised his need for change, he designed his best job

Starting your own business is a huge step – and for Scott, it’s the best step he’s ever taken.

Becoming his own boss enabled him to create the most supportive environment, accommodating his mental health and wellbeing.

Scott has been registered with APM since mid-2018, working diligently with Townsville APM Consultants to gain more suitable and sustainable employment.

During that time, he secured long-term employment with a local towing company, however his employment there contributed to his mental health deteriorating.

He found his then-work environment was exacerbating his Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as several other barriers.

Scott noticed that he was feeling depressed and was especially struggling with his emotions as his Support Dog Buddy was unable to work with him.

His Employment Consultant Samantha supported him during this difficult time, and they discussed a range of options for him.

Scott expressed his interest in starting his own business and becoming self-employed as a local tow truck driver. This way he would be able to support the community with his best pal Buddy by his side.

Scott sitting steering wheel of truck holding his support dog buddy in his arms

Samantha and Scott began by designing his business logo to display on his business cards and trucks. They also organised online marketing material and handed out flyer to the local community. Scott purchased his own tow truck and uniforms, along with caps with his logo on the front.

During many of the closures during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Queensland, Scott became focused to set goals for his business.

His organisational skills and improved mental health allowed him to continue to provide a service to people during this period.

As a result, he is now the third local search for Tow Truck companies in Townsville - you can even find his cards and flyers in many major mechanical companies!

Many people experience difficulties in a workplace during their career – but Scott’s story is a testament to his resilience.

His self-awareness, supported by Samantha, enabled him to have the proactivity and the confidence to make necessary changes in life.

Scott and his pal Buddy are hardworking, driven locals striving to make a difference and help people in far North Queensland.

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.

{^widget|(voiceurlvalue)Register+with+APM+for+Disability+Employment+Services|(opentab)False|(buttonstyle)0|(textcolour)White|(widget_displayname)CTA+Button|(text)Register+Now|(showarrow)True|(iconclass)fa+fa-pencil-square-o|(ctamodal)DESDirectRegistration|(trackactivity)True|(backgroundcolour)Navy|(typeselector)Form|(name)APM.CTA.CTAButton|(width)|(height)^}

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.