Media Release by Senator the Hon Jan McLucas

Graduation of FaHCSIA trainees with disability

Four trainees today celebrated their graduation from a pilot program for people with an intellectual disability in the Australian Public Service.

Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas, said the traineeship program is designed to provide people with intellectual disability with skills and practical work experience to help them gain future employment.

“All four trainees are now permanent staff members at the Department of Families, Housing Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA), with three working in the National Office and one employed in FaHCSIA’s Perth office,” Senator McLucas said.

“These graduates will be an asset to FaHCSIA. They have worked hard throughout the traineeship program, demonstrating their commitment and enthusiasm.”

The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) commenced the 18-month program in August 2009, providing participants with on-the-job training as well as support in completing a Certificate II in Business Administration with Registered Training Organisations

The Traineeship Program for People with Intellectual Disability pilot was developed and supported in partnership with a number of external organisations, such as the Australian Network on Disability, Capital Careers, and Disability Works Australia.

Disability Employment Service providers Advance Personnel, LEAD and EDGE Employment Solutions, and Registered Training Organisations, JCE Positive Outcomes in Canberra, and the Australian Medical Association (WA) in Perth were also involved.

“The traineeship program for people with an intellectual disability is the first of its kind in the Australian Public Service,” Senator McLucas said.

“This program reaffirms the commitment of Australian Government and various business organisations to providing opportunities for people with disability who want to make a contribution to the workforce.”

Senator McLucas joined Secretary of the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Dr Jeff Harmer, in presenting certificates to the graduates in a special ceremony.