Work Training Placements

Work Training Placement Program Q & A

 

What are Work Training Placements?

Work training placements are qualified, skilled people with disabilities who undertake voluntary 'on the job' work experience at UTS for up to 12 weeks.

Placements are sourced through Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service (CRS) Australia, a leading provider of vocational rehabilitation and assessment services. Details of each work training placement are negotiated on a case by case basis. They can be paid or unpaid; they can be full time or part time, depending on the needs of both client and work area.

There is no expectation of ongoing employment resulting from a work training placement, although recent experience indicates clients become more competitive for paid positions as they arise.

Work Training Placements are an integral part of the UTS Diversity Employment Strategy, managed through the Equity and Diversity Unit.

 

What parties are involved?

UTS work area / The Supervisor - requests placement from CRS Australia and provides a range of tasks and professional supervision in a friendly environment for the placement.

CRS Australia - liaises with the Supervisor, identifies people with a disability (applicants) matching the work training position requirements and learning opportunity, provides start-up and ongoing support as necessary.

The Placement - the person with a disability undertaking the work experience. Will learn and actively participate in the on-the-job training opportunity with aim of obtaining work skills and experience to enhance their employability.

UTS Equity & Diversity Unit - coordinator of the Work Training Placement Program.

 

Are there any costs involved? What about Insurance?

There is no cost to UTS as CRS Australia pays most participants a training allowance during their placement. CRS Australia carries out a Workplace Assessment where relevant, to ensure the work environment is suitable for the applicant. CRS Australia will also supply any special tools or technical aids/equipment required for the duration of the placement. CRS Australia also provides Personal Injury and Liability Insurance coverage for the duration of the on-the-job work training placement.

 

Can a work training placement evolve into a paid position if things work out really well?

Of course, it's up to the Supervisor whether they wish to offer the placement any kind of employment after the work experience is complete, although there is no expectation in this regard. Future employment can be approached like any other casual or contract appointment, or permanent recruitment process.

 

How does the placement participant benefit?

The placement benefits by being able to apply their qualifications and skills in the workplace. They gain up to date work experience and a current referee.

This enhances their confidence and skills, enabling them to more competitively apply for ongoing positions as they arise (either at UTS or elsewhere).

Between 2003 and 2007, 39% of UTS placements went on to obtain employment (18% at UTS, 21% at other institutions).

 

How does UTS benefit?

UTS gains from the skills, knowledge and experience people with disabilities bring to the workforce.

Supervisors gain access to a largely untapped labour pool (important in this time of skills shortages).

The program also gives the Supervisor and opportunity to induct, train and assess a person's suitability for future employment*, at no cost.

Workplace morale and productivity may be strengthened.

By providing placements, UTS demonstrates its commitment to diversity and inclusion and to improving real employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

By increasing workplace diversity, UTS better reflects the diversity of the community and raises its profile as a disability-friendly environment in which to work and study.

 

What if a placement is not working out?

A work agreement is arranged in good faith, with clear communication between the Supervisor, CRS case manager, and the placement. The CRS Australia is in regular contact throughout the placement and can assist in resolving any unforeseen difficulties. Equity & Diversity Unit staff are also available to assist if required. Ultimately, either party can terminate the work agreement at any time if they wish.

 

As a manager, how do I offer a Placement?

It's easy! Contact Ucki Dean to discuss your needs:

Ucki Dean
Employment Services Manager      
CRS AUSTRALIA
Ph:  9242 4823
Fax: 9242 4855
Email: ucki.dean@crsaustralia.gov.au        

CRS Australia will identify an appropriately skilled and job ready placement. A half hour meeting will then be arranged between the Supervisor, CRS Australia case manager and placement to meet and clarify expectations. CRS Australia will remain available throughout the placement to provide ongoing support if necessary.

For any other enquiry regarding the Work Training Placement Program, contact:

Lawrence Vidoni
Equity & Diversity Officer
UTS Equity & Diversity Unit
Ph:  9514 1084
Fax: 9514 1883
Email: LVidoni@uts.edu.au

 

* Research has shown that employees with disabilities have equal to or lower than the average days absent and workplace injury rates, and above average intention to stay, organisational commitment, loyalty and commitment.