Growing intellectual disability employment in NSW government

People with intellectual disability are underrepresented in employment across all sectors, including the public service. The 'Growing intellectual disability employment in NSW government' project examined how the NSW government might increase employment of people with intellectual disability. 

The project explored barriers including:

• stigma, discrimination, and low expectations
• gaps in education and inadequate support services
• inflexible recruitment practices
• lack of disability experience and knowledge of good practice among public sector employees. 

The report identified evidence-based strategies to address these barriers: 

• structured, high-quality work experience
• work integrated learning
• supported employment approaches. 

These strategies were affirmed by leading disability support providers interviewed as part of the project. Two approaches were recommended to explicitly create employment pathways.

1. A targeted internship program.
2. Development of dedicated roles based on lived experience expertise.