Building Employer Confidence FAQs

What is the Paralympics Australia Building Employer Confidence Program? 

The Building Employer Confidence (BEC) Program is an initiative aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Para-athletes by engaging employers and creating resources to support inclusive hiring practices. The program includes co-design workshops, the development of charters, and various support materials to help employers become more inclusive. 

Who was involved in designing the program? 

The program was designed with input from employers and Para-athletes who participated in co-design workshops. These participants shared their challenges regarding the employment journey and brainstormed potential solutions. 

What are the key benefits of the Building Employer Confidence Program?

Key benefits include the development tailored employment resources, increased readiness of organisation to employ persons with disabilities (PWD), and the creation of paid opportunities for Para-athletes. The program also offers education and training for employers and managers to foster inclusive workplaces. 

How can employers get involved?

Employers can get involved by participating in the pilot programs, using the developed resources, and attending training and networking sessions. They can also contact Paralympics Australia for more information on how to engage with the program. 

How can Para-athletes get involved? 

Para-athletes can get involved by participating in the employment pathways and pilot programs offered by the BEC program. They can also benefit from the resources and training provided, such as career planning portals, qualification-building programs, and mentorship opportunities. 

Are there any costs associated with participating in the program? 

We offer tailored programs for organisation’s that are interested.  Details can be obtained from Paralympics Australia at [email protected] 

Why is it important for employers to build confidence? 

Building confidence is crucial for employers to create inclusive workplaces, attract diverse talent, and comply with disability inclusion standards. It also enhances the organisation’s reputation and supports corporate social responsibility goals. 

What kind of support does the program offer to employers? 

The program offers various supports, including an employment pathway questionnaire, capability and business readiness assessments, job matching support programs, pre-commencement checklists, and training modules for managers. 

What kind of support does the program offer to athletes? 

The program supports athletes through employment surveys, recruitment guides, onboard checklists, and additional resources like employment portals and language dictionaries. 

How has the Building Employer Confidence Program been running? 

The program has been running effectively, with significant progress made in developing resources and engaging both employers and Para-athletes. The pilot phase has shown an 18% improvement in organizations ready to employ PWD, and all surveyed organisations recommend the resources. developed. 

How do employers create more inclusive workplaces? 

The program helps employers by providing comprehensive resources, training modules, and frameworks for onboarding and induction, all designed to support inclusivity and address specific needs of PWD. 

Can small businesses participate? 

Yes, small businesses can participate. The resources and support are designed to be flexible and adaptable to organizations of different sizes, including small businesses. 

What types of training and resources are provided to employers? 

Training and resources provided include modules on inclusivity, recruitment guides, pre-commencement checklists, an employment pathway questionnaire, and support materials for onboarding and induction. 

How does the program address accessibility in the workplace? 

The program addresses accessibility by developing guidelines for role adjustments, creating checklists and frameworks for onboarding, and providing educational materials to help employers understand and implement necessary adjustments. 

What are the expected outcomes for employers who complete the program? 

Expected outcomes include increased readiness to employ PWD, enhanced inclusivity, improved understanding and implementation of disability adjustments, and a stronger reputation for supporting diversity. 

How does the program support ongoing employer engagement with disability inclusion? 

The program supports ongoing engagement through continuous access to resources, training, networking opportunities, and feedback mechanisms to ensure employers remain committed to disability inclusion. 

Can employers access case studies or examples of successful inclusion strategies? 

Paralympics Australia has worked with multiple employers as part of the project , we have relevant examples of some of the top 200 ASX companies. Details can be obtained from Paralympics Australia at [email protected].

How does the program align with national and international disability inclusion standards? 

The program aligns with these standards by incorporating best practices, developing inclusive resources, and engaging both employers and Para-athletes to ensure compliance and effectiveness. 

What measures are in place to ensure the program’s effectiveness and impact? 

Measures include ongoing feedback mechanisms, surveys to assess readiness and effectiveness, and continuous engagement with stakeholders to refine and improve the program. 

How does the program contribute to the overall goals of Paralympics Australia? 

The program contributes by promoting employment opportunities for Para-athletes, enhancing inclusivity, and supporting the broader mission of Paralympics Australia to create a more inclusive society. 

Who can employers contact for more information about the Building Employer Confidence Program?  

Employers can contact Paralympics Australia for more information about the program. Details can be obtained from Paralympics Australia at [email protected].