Selection process

We work with Employ for Ability to deliver a supportive and inclusive selection process.

Employ for Ability’s aim is to showcase that neurodivergent people have unique strengths and skills that make them fantastic employees. Their approach is to focus on the social model of disability by removing barriers that exist for neurodivergent jobseekers in traditional recruitment processes. They train and support managers and supervisors to understand, support and develop their teams.

Employ for Ability work with individuals to identify their strengths and remove barriers in the workplace to help them thrive.

The selection process is unique, inclusive and merit based and does not involve interviews or psychometric testing. It’s designed to find job-ready candidates using pre-screening exercises and an assessment task to identify candidates with specific skillsets that our agency requires.

There are 5 steps in the selection process.

Step 1: pre-screening workshop

If you’re shortlisted after submitting your online application, you’ll be invited to participate in a pre-screening workshop. This includes practical development and activities with Employ for Ability. You’ll find out more about the roles we’re hiring for and undertake Employ for Ability-led activities to determine your suitability for roles.

As part of the process you’ll be required to participate in some activities on-site. Others can be done from home.

If you’re shortlisted from the pre-screening workshop, we’ll invite you to participate in the next stage of the recruitment process, a 4-day assessment program.

Step 2: assessment program

This step involves practical workplace activities conducted in a face-to-face environment, led by Services Australia. The assessment process is designed to showcase the skills and abilities of candidates and suitability for the role. If you’re unable to attend the assessment activities in person due to work commitments or location, we may be able to arrange for you to attend virtually.

During this process, you’ll take part in individual and group activities so we can understand your strengths and get to know you better. You’ll meet team members and managers from the agency who are looking to fill the role you applied for. You’ll be given activities and tasks that align to and are required in the role.

Once the assessment program is complete, we’ll shortlist candidates again. If you aren’t selected for Services Australia positions, you may be considered for other Employ for Ability opportunities.

Watch this short video about the assessment centre.

Step 3: pre-employment check

Before we can make you an offer of employment, you’ll need to do a pre-employment check, including a criminal history check. You’ll receive support to complete the required paperwork.

Step 4: job offer

If you’re selected, we’ll offer you employment in an ongoing specialist role with Services Australia.

Step 5: support

Before starting with the agency, you’ll complete the Employ for Ability Work Ready Program and we’ll develop an individual employee success plan to make sure you get appropriate support and workplace adjustments. Managers and teams will receive autism awareness and ADHD training and Employ for Ability will provide ongoing support.

You’ll also be matched with a buddy before starting in the role. Buddies will help you settle into the agency and the APS.

We also provide a neurodiversity coach throughout the program to support and guide you in your career and personal objectives.

Contact us

If you have any questions about the selection process, please email aurora@employforability.com.au.