APM report shows challenges facing disabled workers

Human services provider APM released the APM Disability Diversity and Inclusivity (DDI) Index of Australian Workplaces 2023, highlighting the challenges people with disabilities face in the workforce.

APM’s general manager of projects, Fiona Kalaf, commented on the data: “The DDI Index aims to amplify the voices of people with disability, particularly when it comes to their experiences in the workplace.

“Since commencing our DDI Index, APM has seen a number of shifts and improvements, specifically when it comes to awareness of the benefits of hiring people with disability. However, there’s still so much more work to be done,” said Ms Kalaf.

The DDI Index revealed that 58 per cent of disabled workers feel uncomfortable sharing their condition with employers. Thirty per cent of respondents feel they’ve been treated negatively after disclosing their disability, and 39 per cent feel their work is negatively impacted due to concealing their disability.

While the report shows some concerning statistics, 82 per cent of organisations said they would like to create a more embracing environment for those living with disabilities, and 79 per cent are eager to hire more disabled staff. Although, more support may be needed, as 27 per cent said they would hire more disabled workers if not for expensive training and support, and 25 per cent said they didn’t know how to easily access necessary information.

According to APM, one in six Australians are living with a disability. The DDI Index revealed that 22 per cent of employers are conscious of this statistic.

With this data in mind, APM has announced the #DearFutureBoss campaign, which inspires disabled candidates to publish a letter describing the workplace they’d like to be a part of, and what changes they’d like to see in the workforce.

Paralympic gold medal winner Ellie Cole is an ambassador for APM’s initiative. Ms Cole discussed the importance of the campaign: “The #DearFutureBoss campaign is a really great opportunity for people to put their voices down on paper and be really vulnerable and honest about the workplaces they want to see in the not-so-distant future.”

Ms Cole continued: “It’s no secret that some hard truths will be publicly revealed via this campaign, specifically around how people with disabilities have been historically treated. As an athlete, I’ve been celebrated for my differences. To hear that so many Aussies are feeling ashamed for who they are or discriminated against – for something they can’t change – really breaks my heart.”

Steve Ralph, who is impacted by a spinal injury, shared his #DearFutureBoss post: “I’ve been lucky enough to have the opportunity to collaboratively work to design and advise on the space and physical requirements that I need to participate equally.

“Universal design throughout workplaces needs to be embraced, as it’s essential to enable everyone to participate in the workplace regardless of ability,” said Mr Ralph.