School Leaver Employment Support
We understand the transition to life after school can feel overwhelming, so Ability Action Australia supports NDIS participants of school leaving age to prepare for this adjustment.
Our School Leaver Employment Support service is an early intervention approach that helps to build foundation skills and set you up for job success. It helps you work out what future employment opportunities are available and what prospects are right for you.
Ability Action Australia works alongside a well-established network of employers and community partners who are looking to employ people of all abilities.

How can we help?
Our passionate Employment Advisors work with school leavers and their families to prepare for the transition from school to further education or employment. We work with you on career guidance, counselling and developing your abilities, to get you ready for life beyond school.
We work one-on-one with you to explore your strengths, build your confidence, and create a plan that’s tailored to your needs. We equip you with the skills, knowledge and real-world experience to enter work or further training with confidence. Whether you’re eager to join the workforce straight away, or thinking of doing some further study or training, we’re here to get you feeling positive about your future.
Even after you begin work we stay connected to make sure you’re happy and thriving in your new role.
Support may involve:
- Training and mentoring
- Identifying skills and interests
- Résumé preparation
- Work experience opportunities
- Interview skills training
- Time management
- Travel planning
- Assistance to find and maintain meaningful employment
Are you ready to get started? It’s easy!
Why choose us?

Achieve your goals

Local employment advisors

Low wait times
Frequently asked questions
School Leaver Employment Support is an early intervention approach for NDIS participants of school leaving age that helps you transition to life beyond school.
The School Leaver Employment Support service is available to NDIS participants of school leaving age.
To be eligible for School Leaver Employment Support it must be specified in your NDIS plan. The line item number is 10_021_0102_5_3.
Eligibility can begin from Year 10 and continue up to 22 years of age.
School Leaver Employment Support allows young people to better understand their work interests and support needs, with the aim of leading to sustainable and meaningful long-term employment.
The transition to life beyond school can be overwhelming, so this service offers students, families and schools a holistic and supported approach on the pathway from school to employment.
Ability Action Australia’s employment advisors work one-on-one with students to create a personalised plan, tailored to each student’s needs. Support may include:
- Mentoring and training
- Confidence building
- Presentation
- Time management
- Safety in the community and online
- Travel planning
- Furthering education
- Identifying skills and interests
- Résumé preparation
- Finding work experience opportunities
- Interview skills training
- Money handling and budgeting
- Working in a team
- Communication skills
This fact sheet from the NDIS helps to explain the key differences between School Leaver Employment Support and DES.
We provide a holistic, supported approach with each client receiving a tailored support plan including career guidance, counselling and capacity building services. We aim to help participants set up a life of independence, with new skills and greater confidence.
Our employment advisors provide:
- Career guidance
- Counselling
- Capacity building services
We work alongside a strong network of employers and community partners who are looking to employ people of all abilities.
It’s easy to get started. Simply complete our referral form or call 1800 238 958 to chat to our helpful and friendly support team.
Our detailed NDIS School Leaver Employment Support Funding Guide provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply for funding.
The first step is understanding if you are eligible to receive NDIS funding:
- Are you permanently disabled or require early intervention to reduce the support you will need in the future?
- Are you under 65 years old?
- Are you living in Australia?
- Are you an Australian citizen or permanent resident?
If you answered yes to all of the above, you may be eligible for NDIS funding. To apply, contact the NDIS directly on 1800 800 110. Alternatively, you can complete an Access Request Form on the NDIS website: www.ndis.gov.au

NDIS School Leaver Employment Support
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a way of supporting people with permanent and significant disability. The NDIS is designed to give individuals greater choice and control over when, where and how their funded supports are provided. The specific support and funding available is based on each individual’s specific needs. You can find out more about what supports are funded by referring to the NDIS website.