Securing Futures: Advancing Employment for all People with Disability

• 09 February 2026 10 February 2026
• 09:00am - 04:30pm 09:00am - 04:30pm
• ParkRoyal Hotel, 30 Phillip Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

People with disability continue to face significant barriers to securing employment in Australia. Now is the time to address these barriers. Whether you’re curious, committed, or seeking to deepen your understanding, these events are designed to meet you right where you are. For maximum benefit, join us for both days. The time for change isn’t coming, it’s already here!

Who should attend?

People with disability, families, self advocates, professionals and policy makers dedicated to advancing employment opportunities for people with disability. Individuals looking to make meaningful change in the sector.

Register for this event here!

Day 1 - Employment- Strategies in Practice

We’ll kick things off on Day One with an overview of Customised Employment; perfect for absolute beginners and seasoned professionals alike! We’ll explore the power of Discovery, the art of engaging employers, and uncover who benefits most from this innovative employment strategy. You’ll also hear from Australian families and job supporters who have supported their family member through this unique process.

Monday 9 February - 9:00am to 4:30pm AEDT

Opening Plenary
Customised Employment Overview: Starting with the end in mind

First Breakout Options

• Topic 1 – Discovery - Values and Process
• Topic 2 – Introduction to Systematic Instruction

Second Breakout Options

• Topic 1 – Engaging Employers through Customised Employment
• Topic 2 – Utilising Customised Employment Services: Who can benefit the most and how to facilitate successful outcomes

Closing Session

• Australian Story
• Wrap up

Day 2 - Shaping Employment Reform

On Day 2, we turn our attention to the bigger picture. How can people with disability, their families, service providers, decision makers, government agencies, and policy makers influence and create a system that delivers truly inclusive, quality and meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability?

Join us as we unpack practical pathways to transform the employment landscape.

Tuesday 10 February 9:00am to 4:30pm AEDT

Topic 1 - Opening: Department of Social Services (DSS) Insights on the National Employment Reform Agenda

Topic 2 - The Employment for All approach: Ensuring no one is left behind

Topic 3 - Getting the right mix: Individual, program and systems elements for quality services

Topic 4 - Exploring practical solutions based strategies for addressing challenges, regaining momentum and navigating your way through potential obstacles

Meet the international speakers

Therese Fimian

Therese has worked in the disability employment field for over 20 years, overseeing national workforce, research and demonstration projects and programs to increase access to employment and economic empowerment for individuals with significant disabilities. She directed a national Customised Employment initiative through which jobs and internships were customised and strong partnerships with businesses were established across multiple states. She has worked with national and state agencies to develop and improve strategy, policy and practice to increase interest in and access to resources and services that result in competitive, integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. Therese joined MG&A in July 2019 and became president of the organization in 2022.

Randy Dicks

Randy's work in the human service field ranges from working with the homeless, victims of sexual abuse, those with criminal histories, and those who experience mental health, physical, and intellectual disabilities. His varied work has always focused on each individual, their goals and needs, and tailoring services to what will work best for them. He strives to implement this philosophy daily, through Customised Employment. He has found that Customised Employment truly is a way to help people with significant barriers to employment find meaning and purpose through a job in the community, making real wages and living the life they envision for themselves. Randy joined MG&A as a consultant in 2013. He is a lead instructor for MG&A as well as the director of MG&A’ s Performance-Based Certification program.

Randy has extensive experience in hiring and creating large teams focused on outcomes.  This includes oversight of budgets upwards of $70 million dollar, writing and implementing agency policy/procedure, and serving on external boards/committees to advance disability services.  His experience includes analyzing and creating infrastructure to meet the needs of growing organizations, budget adherence, program operations, as well as diversifying funding sources for growth and sustainability.

Cost - book both days and receive a discount!

Pricing for families: 
1 Day - $75
2 Days - $100 (discounted rate)

Families and people with disability should attend because this event offers practical tools, real stories and clear steps to help shape meaningful, personalised employment pathways.

Pricing for Professionals:
1 Day - $250
2 Days - $400 (discounted rate)

Professionals should attend to deepen their understanding of Customised Employment and gain practical strategies they can use to better support individuals and influence more inclusive employment practices.

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