Available in
NSW | QLD
Ready for work. Ready for life.
Discover what you’re good at and find a job you’ll love
Whether you’re finishing school, looking for your first job, or ready for a change, our Work Ready program is here to help. We work with you to figure out what kind of work suits you best, then help you build the skills and confidence to get hired.
From worksite tours to hands-on placements, you’ll explore real jobs before you commit. You’ll learn at your own pace, with as much support as you need from our experienced mentors and trainers.
At Aruma, we believe everyone deserves the chance to find meaningful work. That’s why we design support around you, your goals, and your strengths.
What the Work Ready program can do for you
- Try before you commit – Take worksite tours and hands-on placements to see what different jobs are really like. Find out what suits you before making a decision
- Build real skills – Learn practical skills you can use in any job. From communication and time management to travel training and money management
- Get personalised support- Work one-on-one with mentors who tailor learning to how you learn best. Go at your own pace with support when you need it
- Grow your confidence – Build self-belief through real experience. Feel proud of what you can achieve and ready to take on new challenges
- Plan your career pathway – Set goals, explore options, and create a plan for your future. We help you map out the steps to get where you want to go.
Where is Work Ready available?
Aruma offers the Work Ready Program across New South Wales and Queensland.
In New South Wales: Alstonville, Armidale, Central Coast (Wyoming), Forbes, Maitland, Newcastle, Parkes, Port Macquarie, Tamworth, and Taree.
In Queensland: Burleigh Heads, Caboolture, Ipswich, Loganholme, and Windsor.
Your area not listed? Get in touch to find out more.
Taster program: We have a taster program for eligible Year 12 students. Contact us to learn more.
Your Work Ready questions answered
The Work Ready Program helps people with disability build skills, gain experience, and get ready for employment. It was previously called School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES), but it’s for anyone who wants to get work ready, not just school leavers.
You’ll build a range of skills to help you in any workplace. This includes setting employment goals, travel training, workplace communication, time management, money management, and looking after your mental health and wellbeing. Your learning is tailored to your needs and goals.
Yes. Work experience and worksite tours are a big part of the program. You’ll get a real taste of different jobs so you can see what you like and what suits you best. The practical skills you learn can be used in any future job.
No. You don’t need any experience to join the Work Ready Program. We provide all the training and support you need. You just need to be ready to learn.
Call us on 1300 538 746 or enquire online. Our team will chat with you about what you’re looking for and help you find the right fit.
The Work Ready Program (SLES) is funded under “Finding and Keeping a Job” in your NDIS plan. You can also access funding under Core Supports or Capacity Building. Chat to our team if you’re not sure how your funding works.
Chat to our team if you’re not sure how your funding works.
Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.
“To me, the Safe Way means the person supporting me is a person that cares, a person that i’m comfortable being around and opening up to”
Why choose Aruma for Work Ready?
- Support designed around you — We get to know your goals, strengths, and interests. Your program is built around what matters to you.
- Experienced mentors — Our trainers and mentors guide you every step of the way. You’ll learn at your own pace with support tailored to how you learn best.
- Real work experience — Try different jobs through worksite tours and placements. Find out what suits you before you commit.
- Direct pathways to employment — Aruma runs successful businesses that employ over 400 people with disability. We can connect you with work opportunities when you’re ready.
- Part of a bigger team — With nearly 60 years of experience, Aruma supports thousands of people to live the life they choose. You’ll be joining a community that believes in what people with disability can achieve.
The Aruma Way – A promise backed by quality
At Aruma, we’re committed to upholding the human rights of every person we support, every time. We call this The Aruma Way, our promise to deliver high-quality support that is:
- Your Way — Person-centred support, putting you at the centre.
- The Safe Way — Keeping everyone safe from harm.
- The Right Way — Effective support, provided the way it should be.
- Together — Working in partnership with you and your support network.
It’s part of our DNA. It’s embedded in everything we do — and it’s what we hold ourselves accountable to.
Ready to get work ready?
Talk to our team today to find out how the Work Ready Program can help you build skills, gain experience, and find a job you’ll love.
Want to find a job you love?
Need to get in touch or want to get the ball rolling with this service? Our customer team would love to help.
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