Rapid evidence review: transformation of closed employment

This rapid evidence review explores how Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) can facilitate pathways into open or integrated employment for people with disabilities. Drawing on international literature, it investigates global approaches to transitioning from sheltered workshop systems to inclusive employment models and distils key insights and implications for the Australian context.

Key findings

1. Transformation requires a commitment to cease closed employment at a fixed date, often triggered by a policy imperative.
2. Transformation takes time and occurs gradually.
3. Transformation often relied on partnerships with other organisations and employers to access other forms of support funding.