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Job development and matching

Building Block

Use a tailored approach to match the employer’s needs with the jobseeker’s skills, strengths, and preferences, while shaping roles that that provide the best fit for both.

Last updated: 9 Dec 2025

Two people having a conversation in an outside space. One person is sitting in a wheelchair.

“Over the past three decades I have managed and developed people with disability and people without disability. My experience is that disability is irrelevant to success. Success is all about the right job fit and the right attitude.” 1

Suzanne Colbert AM
Former Chief Executive Officer, Australian Disability Network

“Effective job development should focus on meeting the shared needs of both the job seeker and the employer. It’s not about convincing employers to hire someone with disability or placing someone in a job that isn’t a good match” 2

Evidence expert
Slide 1

Overview

Job development is more than just filling vacancies – it is about creating sustainable employment opportunities that meet the needs of both jobseekers and employers. This requires job matching built on an in-depth understanding of the jobseeker’s interests and skills, the job requirements, and the employer’s needs.   

Key strategies for success 

Effective job development and matching builds on the foundations outlined in other ‘Building Blocks’ to employment – particularly, detailed knowledge of the jobseeker with disability, the local labour market, and employer needs. Common strategies include: 

Tailored job search

Job matching

Job shaping and customisation

The British Supported Employment Quality Framework describes effective job development as starting with ensuring jobseekers are prepared for job search and recruitment activities. It then uses vocational profiles and job analysis to identify or create suitable roles, informed by identified business needs. Employers are supported to make any necessary adjustments to set their new employee up for long-term success. 3

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