$700,000 for supported employment

The Hon Jane Prentice MP, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services has announced $700,000 to expand the BuyAbility website with a new search tool to enhance access to goods and services provided by Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs).

“ADEs play an important role in supporting people with disability, allowing them to enter the workforce more easily, connect socially with others and have a sense of independence,” Mrs Prentice said.

“This commitment is part of the Australian Government’s aim to improve the lives of people with disability through quality-supported employment in ADEs.

“There are now more than 175 ADEs with 280 outlets across Australia employing about 20,000 people with disability.

“This new search tool will make it easier for businesses to purchase the goods and services that ADEs offer,” Mrs Prentice said.

The expansion of the BuyAbility website will be carried out in partnership with National Disability Services (NDS) which will work with the government to promote the services of ADEs and provide training so they can sell goods and services to all areas of government, as well as larger businesses.

“I am confident these changes will enhance business opportunities for ADEs and provide them with greater visibility and viability in what is a very competitive marketplace.

“It is wonderful to see organisations benefiting from the enormous contribution people with disability are bringing to their business by focusing on what people can do, their strengths and capabilities.

“I encourage everyone to promote the BuyAbility website and to always consider the exceptional goods and services ADEs have to offer,” Mrs Prentice said.