Understanding transitional employment
Transitional employment helps people overcome barriers to work through structured support and gradual integration. In Australia, various government and community programs facilitate these pathways, with Fair Work protections applying to all workers.
Disability Employment
- Disability Employment Services (DES)
- Supported wage system
- Workplace modifications
- Ongoing support
Return to Work
- Jobactive programs
- Workforce Australia
- Skills training
- Job placement support
Transitional employment programs in Australia
Key programs supporting transitional employment include:
Government-funded programs
Employer benefits and incentives
Employers participating in transitional employment may access:
- Wage subsidies: Financial assistance to offset training and support costs
- Workplace modifications: Funding for equipment or adjustments via JobAccess
- Ongoing support: Employment services provide workplace assistance
- Diversity benefits: Access diverse talent pool and meet inclusion goals
- Trial periods: Assess fit with support before committing
For employers
- Wage subsidies: Reduce hiring costs
- External support: Employment service assistance
- Loyal workers: High retention rates
- Inclusion: Meet diversity objectives
For employees
- Support: Ongoing assistance in workplace
- Skill building: Develop work experience
- Gradual transition: Build confidence over time
- Pathway: Route to permanent employment
Australian compliance tip
Transitional employees have the same minimum entitlements as other workers under Fair Work legislation. Supported wage arrangements for people with disability must be assessed and approved by the Fair Work Commission. Regular award rates apply unless a supported wage assessment is in place.
Managing transitional employees
Effective management includes:
- Partner with services: Work with employment service providers for support
- Clear expectations: Define role requirements and progression pathways
- Flexible rostering: Use rostering software for gradual hours
- Award compliance: Apply correct Modern Award or supported wage rates
- Workplace support: Provide mentoring and reasonable adjustments
- Progress review: Regular check-ins on development and transition goals
Common mistakes with transitional employment
Underpaying supported workers
Applying incorrect wage rates without proper Fair Work Commission assessment.
Insufficient support
Not providing adequate workplace support or reasonable adjustments.
No progression plan
Keeping workers in transitional arrangements without clear pathways to permanent roles.
Key takeaways
Transitional employment in Australia helps people overcome barriers to work through supported pathways. Government programs provide funding, support services, and incentives for employers to participate.
Employers benefit from wage subsidies, support services, and access to motivated workers. Using workforce management software helps manage flexible hours and track progress for transitional employees moving toward sustainable employment.
