Dion was content with his career path, enjoying his work as a landscaper but in 2021 he was involved in a car accident which left him seriously injured and affected his ability to continue on this career path.
After a long period of rehabilitation, in 2024, Dion sought assistance to rejoin the workforce and came to BUSY Ability, a Disability Employment Services provider that supports people with an injury, illness or disability to find employment. Although Dion still had the desire to continue landscaping work, his injuries were too serious for this to be a reality and the team at BUSY Ability got to work looking for alternative career pathways that could utilise his skills.
Dion undertook some initial assessment and training programs through BUSY Ability which shifted his perspective and allowed him to think outside the box when evaluating his options.
Working with Martha, his Employment Consultant at BUSY Ability, Dion had his resume updated and was supported to create targeted cover letters for each vacancy he applied for. Together they developed a strong working relationship, with the common goal of finding Dion meaningful employment. Dion is currently unable to drive due to his injuries, and it can be difficult for him to get around town, so Martha assisted where possible, driving Dion to and from job interviews and also to purchase suitable work clothing.
Actively seeking out potential employment opportunities, with support from Martha, Dion’s proactive approach to job searching eventually paid off, as he recently secured a role as a warehouse assistant at Adapta Products in Tweed Heads. Aware of Dion’s mobility barriers, his new employer has been very accommodating, working with him to create an environment that took into account his mobility and where he could successfully perform his role.
Now in the role for over six weeks, Dion has been thriving and says, “I’m enjoying working at a warehouse, a business that is a subcontractor to the council. I believe it’s a job for life and I couldn’t be happier.
“Martha (from BUSY Ability) is wonderful and helped me out with work clothes and boots for my new role.”
Dion’s journey to employment highlights the value of training, personalised support and the potential for people living with injury, illness or disability to find financial independence, contribution and purpose through employment.
By working closely with BUSY Ability, Dion was able to overcome challenges, discover new opportunities and commence a new career path.
If you live with injury, illness or disability and are struggling to find work or are an employer looking for staff, contact BUSY Ability on 1800 761 561 or email info@busyability.org.au
After experiencing a serious car accident in 2021, Dion had to reevaluate his career path as a landscaper and has now found work as a warehouse assistant, thanks to support from BUSY Ability.
The BUSY Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and their Elders past and present.
