As the new year begins, many people look to turn the page on old challenges and look forward with renewed hope. For individuals managing mental health challenges, this time can be an opportunity to reset and seek a fresh start.
Recent research revealed that more than two in five (42.9%) Australians aged 16–85 have experienced a mental health concern at some point in their lives1, highlighting the widespread impact of mental health challenges. For many, finding meaningful employment is a transformative step in their journey, offering more than just financial independence – it provides a renewed sense of purpose, stability and community.
Yet, despite these aspirations, the path to employment remains fraught with barriers for many Australians living with mental health challenges. Research from Mental Health Australia highlights a stark disparity, with only one quarter (26%) of people with psychosocial disabilities employed, compared to over half (57%) of those with other disabilities, and four in five (80%) of individuals without disabilities2.
This gap highlights a significant need for more accessible programs and tailored support, that can help people overcome challenges and achieve their employment goals, such as that offered by atWork Australia.
By offering personalised employment services – such as training, mental health support, and job placement – atWork Australia helps individuals build confidence, gain skills and access the opportunities they need to achieve long-term stability.
Reflecting on 2024, atWork Australia have supported more than 15,000 people into meaningful employment. atWork Australia focuses on finding opportunities that align with their client’s skills and career aspirations. They have successfully supported people to secure roles in industries such as construction, healthcare and retail. Furthermore, employment has been supported by more specialised positions in industries including aviation, commodities trading and geology.
While 2024 produced incredible opportunities for people living with disability, a recent survey found that seven in 10 (71%) individuals are optimistic that 2025 will be better than the previous year3, reflecting a growing sense of hope and readiness to embrace new opportunities.
One individual who has demonstrated incredible resilience in navigating mental health challenges is 40-year-old Natasha, from Mandurah, Western Australia. Natasha has struggled with emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD), which at times has made it difficult to manage emotional reactions and navigate daily life.
However, with the right support, she has been able to turn a new page and embark on a journey of growth and fulfillment. "Getting the right support has been life-changing for me," Natasha shares. "I’ve had my ups and downs with mental health, but with atWork Australia's support, I’ve found a job that I love. Every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow, and it’s given me a real sense of purpose again."
After experiencing mental health challenges and uncertainty about her future, Natasha was referred to atWork Australia, where she received personalised support that helped her secure work as a brewing assistant. "I’m so grateful for the flexibility and understanding at my job. It’s hard work, but it feels worth it," she says. "It’s been a long journey, but now I feel like I’ve finally hit my stride."
As we look ahead to 2025, a new year brings renewed hope for many individuals like Natasha, who are ready to embrace new opportunities and tackle challenges head-on. "I’m optimistic about the future," Natasha reflects. "It’s been a tough road, but I know I’m on the right path now."
atWork Australia offers tailored services that provide the kind of support needed to help individuals with mental health challenges to not only enter the workforce but thrive within it. To find out more about atWork Australia’s services, visit: www.atworkaustralia.com.au
ENDS
About atWork Australia
atWork Australia has been delivering employment services on behalf of the Australian Government since 2003. From more than 300 locations around the nation, atWork Australia delivers Disability Employment Services (DES) and Workforce Australia connecting people and business so both can thrive.
Collaborating with more than 3,500 employers across the country, atWork Australia has connected more than 15,000 Australians with meaningful and sustainable employment across six states over the last 12 months, across a diverse range of industries and occupations. Find out more at www.atworkaustralia.com.au.
References
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. Mental health. July 2024. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health. Accessed 19 December 2024.
- Mental Health Australia. Employment and Mental Health. October 2022. https://mhaustralia.org/sites/default/files/docs/mental_health_australia_position_statement_-_employment_and_mental_health_-_october_2022_-_final.pdf. Accessed 19 December 2024.
- Ipsos. Positivity about how this year has gone highest since before the pandemic. December 2024. https://www.ipsos.com/en-th/ipsos-predictions-2025. Accessed 19 December 2024.
Contact details:
Tia Orfanidis, SenateSHJ, +61 411 293 583 / tia@senateshj.com.au
