To help disabled jobseekers land roles within the retail industry, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has launched a new program in Queensland.
Dubbed Retail Ready and Able, the program aims to “empower and upskill” candidates who face employment barriers because of physical, mental or emotional challenges.
The program also addresses various stigmas and shifting mindsets when it comes to employing people with varying disabilities.
ARA CEO Paul Zahra said jobseekers with a disability should be “afforded the same opportunities” as everybody else.
“Sadly, due to stigmas and misconceptions, individuals with a disability do find it more difficult to find meaningful employment,” Zahra said. “Improving the diversity, equality and inclusion opportunities for people with a disability is an important focus for the retail sector.”
About 100 job seekers within the program will receive training pathways, work placement and post-placement support in the next six months.
This project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training.
This story first appeared on our sister publication Inside Retail
