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Jeff was determined to keep working

When a devastating back injury left him unable to work, Jeff soon lost his home, his relationship with his partner and found himself struggling with depression.

But no matter how difficult life got, the 64-year-old former labourer was determined to find work and move forward.

“You get so down. Everything seems like there’s a brick wall in the way and you can’t get through it,” Jeff said.

“I got pretty depressed. You’re doing the job for 40 years and that’s all you know.

“And because I’m dyslexic I found it was a big thing for me to even go into a course to do something new.”

Jeff said despite these barriers he was still wanted to work, and he went to Centrelink to ask what services were available to help him.

That’s when he was introduced to APM Employment Services and met his employment consultant Troy.
 

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"It’s been a new beginning for me"

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Read a full transcript of this video.

Getting started with APM

Jeff worked together with Troy to build up his skills so he could complete the course as part of his individual job plan in the Disability Employment Services program.

As well as coaching Jeff through coursework and job searches, Troy was able to provide Jeff motivational support and the use of a computer in the APM office where he could work on achieving his goals.

Soon after completing the course, Jeff had an interview with a local aged care and disability support provider and they were eager to bring him into their team.

“After everything that happened, I didn’t think that I’d be here.

“With APM and Troy, they’ve made all this possible for me. I’ve put the yards in, but I’ve had good support too.”

The life-changing impact of having a job

More than nine months into his role as a carer, Jeff’s life and mental health have greatly improved.

“I do housekeeping, sometimes a bit of gardening for them. I take them to the movies, I virtually do whatever they want. I’m there for them.

“It gives me a purpose and a reason to get out of bed.

“It’s been a new beginning for me,” Jeff said.

APM Employment Services help thousands of people like Jeff every year from more than 500 locations across Australia.

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"It gives me a purpose and a reason to get out of bed"

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Are you eligible for Disability Employment Services?

You may be eligible for our Disability Employment Services program if you:

  • Have a diagnosed injury, illness or disability
  • Are aged from at least 14 to pension age
  • Are at or above the minimum legal working age in your state or territory
  • Are able to work at least eight hours per week (with support when required)
  • Are an Australian resident
  • Are not studying full time (unless you’re an eligible school leaver)
  • Are not working at or above your assessed employment capacity

You can access APM Disability Employment Services through a referral by Centrelink or by registering with us directly.

When you visit Centrelink, they carry out an employment assessment and if you are eligible, they will recommend you to a Disability Employment Services provider. Remember to ask to join APM so you get the best service when searching for employment.

If you’re with another Disability Employment Services provider, but would like to change to APM, contact us and our teams will be happy to speak to you.

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Frequently asked questions

Who is APM?
How does Disability Employment Services work?
Who qualifies for Disability Employment Services?
What to expect
Already with another provider?
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Living with an injury, illness or disability and want to find a suitable job? 

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