Barwon Health signs Inclusive Employer Compact to support career pathways for people with disabilities

Barwon Health continues to champion inclusive employment after signing an Inclusive Employer Compact (IEC) with major local organisations to support meaningful career pathways for people with disability.

The IEC was established by The Gordon and is part of the TAFE’s broader Centre of Excellence in Disability Inclusion, which received $36 million in State Government funding and is due to open in 2027.

Approximately 17 per cent of Victorians live with a disability, with barriers to employment often linked to recruitment practices, job design, workplace environments and access to appropriate supports.

Removing these barriers requires increasingly coordinated action across education providers, employers and community partners, rather than isolated organisational efforts

The Compact brings together organisations across the Geelong region to recognise the skills, talent and contribution of people with disability, and to improve access to rewarding employment opportunities.

Standing proudly alongside Barwon Health, the other three founding partners are TAC, WorkSafe Victoria and NDIA.

The Compact was signed on Thursday (August 6) by Chief Executive Officer Frances Diver at an event at The Gordon, attended by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens.

“Inclusive employment is about recognising ability, creating opportunity and ensuring every person feels valued for the contribution they make,” Ms Diver said.

“We are proud to formalise our commitment to building a workforce where people with disability are supported to grow, succeed and thrive.”

For more information, head here.

The Inclusive Employment Compact was signed at the Gordon on Thursday.