Building confidence and capability to support improved employment outcomes under NDIS reform
Participants are building the confidence and capabilities required to pursue meaningful employment through a targeted initiative delivered by Afford’s Inclusive Employment Australia team, aligned with current reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
The Unshakable Confidence session, delivered with the support of Brimbank City Council through the Local Jobs Local People Program, supports participants to develop foundational skills that are increasingly recognised as critical to achieving sustainable employment outcomes.
With 12 attendees the session demonstrated strong engagement from participants seeking to build confidence, strengthen their capabilities, and explore pathways to employment.
Capacity building
Facilitated by Confidence Coach Sumaya Klank, the workshop combined structured discussions and practical activities focused on building self-belief, identifying strengths and supporting participants to navigate common barriers to employment. The session also addressed key areas such as preparing for interviews, understanding workplace expectations, and setting achievable goals.
The initiative reflects a broader policy focus on capacity building, early intervention and supporting participants to achieve greater independence and economic participation. By strengthening confidence and transferable skills, the program contributes to improved participant outcomes and aligns with the shift toward more sustainable, outcomes-focused supports under NDIS reform.
Participants reported increased confidence and motivation to pursue employment opportunities, along with a clearer understanding of pathways into work. The provision of a safe, inclusive environment to discuss barriers and aspirations was identified as a key enabler of engagement and progress.
Strong demand
Feedback from attendees was highly positive, with most participants rating the session between four and five out of five.
There was also strong demand for continued program delivery, with participants identifying priority areas for future sessions including interview techniques, workplace expectations, preparation for first-time employment and strategies to manage anxiety in professional settings. This feedback highlights the ongoing need for practical, participant-centred supports that build both confidence and capability.
Chief Executive Officer of Afford, Jo Toohey, said initiatives such as this play an important role in delivering on the objectives of current NDIS reforms.
“Building participant capability is central to achieving the long-term outcomes envisaged under NDIS reform,” said Ms Toohey.
“Confidence, self-belief and practical skills are critical enablers of employment and independence.”
Broad and deep benefits
Ms Toohey said inclusive employment programs are key to supporting participants to achieve greater economic and social participation.
“Access to meaningful, paid employment supports not only financial independence, but also social inclusion, wellbeing and long-term sustainability of outcomes for people with disability,” she said.
Ms Toohey added that Afford remains committed to delivering supports that align with evolving NDIS framework and policy direction.
“Programs like Unshakable Confidence demonstrate the value of targeted, capacity-building supports that empower participants to pursue their goals, navigate barriers and engage more fully in their communities and the workforce.”
Afford continues to invest in initiatives that support participants to build confidence, develop skills and achieve sustainable employment outcomes, in line with the broader reform agenda and the ongoing focus on participant choice, control and independence.
To interview CEO Jo Toohey or for further information about Afford and its Inclusive Employment Australia services reach out to Communications Specialist Kelly Baker on 0479 033 299 or via Kelly.Baker@Afford.com.au
