The disability employment services grant agreement has been updated and will take effect on July 1, 2018. This new agreement is an important step towards advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Under the new agreement, the Australian Government is committing $3.9 billion to the program over the next four years. This funding will support more people with disabilities in finding work and staying in employment.

The grant agreement will also introduce a new approach to funding, known as the ‘Star Ratings’ system. This system will measure the success of disability employment services based on the outcomes they achieve for job seekers with disabilities. Providers that perform well will receive higher funding, while those that underperform may lose funding.

The new agreement also emphasizes the importance of modernizing the disability employment services system. This means using technology and data to better match job seekers to employment opportunities and support them throughout the job-seeking process.

One major focus of the new agreement is on improving the quality of services provided to job seekers with disabilities. This includes ensuring that services are tailored to the individual needs of each job seeker, and that staff are properly trained and equipped to provide high-quality support.

Another important aspect of the grant agreement is its focus on promoting inclusive workplaces. Employers will be encouraged to create more opportunities for people with disabilities and to provide the necessary accommodations to support their success in the workplace.

Overall, the disability employment services grant agreement effective 1 July 2018 represents a significant investment in advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Australia. By providing critical support to job seekers with disabilities and working to create more inclusive workplaces, this agreement has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of many Australians.