In recent years, awareness of neurodivergence, such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), has grown. Employment among autistic Australians has improved too, but according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, their unemployment rate (18.2%) is still almost six times that of people without disability. For many neurodivergent people, finding a workplace that offers the right adjustments can still take time and persistence. The Aurora Neuroinclusion Program is one response to that gap, building those adjustments into the recruitment process from the start.
Created by Services Australia (the same people behind Medicare and Centrelink), in partnership with Employ for Ability, a specialist neurodiversity employment service, the program offers a career path for those who may struggle to find work within the traditional, less flexible job market and recruitment process.
The program acts as a pathway into Services Australia, whilst reducing barriers to entry and recognising the unique strengths and skills of neurodivergent people. It also increases the diversity of people working within not only Services Australia, but the entire Australian Public Service (APS).
Through Aurora, applicants go through a tailored and flexible assessment process. Services Australia says successful applicants can be offered non-ongoing (fixed-term) or ongoing (permanent) roles with a competitive salary, attractive leave entitlements and working conditions, and support from a dedicated neurodiversity coach. Ongoing roles offer the added benefit of job security.
Aurora reaches many different fields including data analytics, debt management, architecture and governance, customer service, and more. If you have a skill, you can likely apply it here! Successful applicants can be offered a role within the classifications of APS3 to APS6. There are also roles across Australia, with the next recruitment round centred around Canberra.
To apply, all you need is proof of diagnosis, proof of Australian citizenship, and a computer. Just visit the Employ for Ability website and submit your application. Shortlisted applicants will move on to the selection process.
The Selection Process
The selection process is split into five steps. Instead of formal interviews or psychometric testing, applicants will take part in practical activities.
1. Prescreening Workshop
The first step is a workshop, facilitated by Employ for Ability. During this process, applicants will learn more about the available roles and participate in activities that help demonstrate their skills, strengths and suitability for available roles. Applicants who are shortlisted again will move on to the second stage.
2. The Assessment Program
In another round of practical activities, applicants will work in a face-to-face environment, led by Services Australia. During this phase applicants will complete individual and group activities, meet agency managers and team members, and undertake assessment tasks aligned to the position. This part of the program is created to assess potential Services Australia employees, though applicants may also be considered for other Employ for Ability opportunities.
3. Pre-Employment Check
During this stage applicants will undergo a pre-employment check. This includes a criminal history check. Applicants will receive support to complete the required documentation.
4. Job Offer
Successful applicants will receive a job offer! They will receive either a non-ongoing or an ongoing position with Services Australia, depending on business requirements.
5. Support
Before starting, applicants will complete the Employ for Ability Work Ready Program. This will help create an individual employee success program and identify workplace adjustments. Applicants will also be supported through a workplace study, a dedicated neurodiversity coach, and ongoing support from Employ for Ability.
Managers and teams receive neurodiversity training to help create an inclusive workplace. Applicants will also be matched with a buddy before starting in the role. Buddies will help settle applicants into the agency and the APS.
Eligibility Requirements
Naturally, there are certain requirements that need to be fulfilled in order to obtain a spot within the program. These include the requirements for eligibility withing the program itself, as well as the skills and qualifications needed in the workplace.
In order to be eligible you must:
- have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder/condition or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)*
- be 18 or older
- be an Australian citizen
- be able to take part in an assessment centre process
- be able to obtain an Australian Government security clearance.
*acceptable proof of diagnosis includes a full or redacted diagnostic report, a letter from a psychologist, psychiatrist or GP, or confirmation from the NDIS or a Disability Employment Services provider
The skills required include the ability to:
- think critically and have solid problem-solving skills
- work independently and seek assistance when required
- analyse business requirements and design documentation
- work collaboratively with staff, agency stakeholders and customers
- demonstrate a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
- learn new technologies and products.
And whilst not necessary, it is also helpful to have tertiary qualifications within Computer Science, Project Management, Data or Business Analytics or something related.
For ICT roles, it would also be useful to understand one or more computing languages. For Project Management roles, it would be useful to have the ability to understand and use:
- Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK)
- Excel/CSV Extraction
- Access Database
- Microsoft Office Suite.
If you have any questions regarding the program, reach out to Employ for Ability at aurora@employforability.com.au.
