DESerting clients? A Study Investigating Evidence-based Measures Supporting the Long-term Employment of Neurodiverse Australians

Abstract

Employment outcomes for Australians with disability are weak and worsening. Aiming to assist in better understanding and redressing this troubling policy issue, this investigative research aims to (a) determine as to whether or not a significant relationship exists between disability type (i.e., physical or psychiatric) and long-term employment; and (b) identify evidence-based measures that might assist to improve the long-term employment of neurodiverse disability employment services (DES) clients. Addressing the first of these aims, an IBM SPSS-based chi-square analysis was conducted utilizing disability employment data sourced from the Australian Government. Targeting the second aim, a literature search was conducted utilizing Google Scholar, and thematic analysis was, then, applied on the results of this enquiry. Results of the chi-square analysis reveal that a DES client’s disability type appears to be associated with whether or not they attain long-term employment. From the 79 possibly relevant articles obtained from the Google Scholar enquiry, 13 were deemed relevant after applying the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis constructed themes of resourcing, personalized support and education. In addition to offering a good practice employment guide based upon these themes, the study concludes by challenging Australian policymakers to consider the kinds of DES provider results that might not warrant reward.