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If you’re passionate about helping others and want to make a real difference in your community, a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) is a great place to start. This nationally recognised qualification gives you the skills, confidence and hands-on experience to support people with a disability to live safely and independently - and with choice and dignity. It’s also a fantastic pathway into a rewarding, flexible and fast-growing career. Why Disability Support work? With the continued rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the demand for qualified disability support workers is at an all-time high - and it’s only expected to grow. In fact, the NDIS National Workforce Plan forecasts that the disability support workforce will need to grow by approximately 83,000 workers by 2025 to meet demand. That’s a significant increase and a strong signal that there are plenty of job opportunities for people looking to enter the sector. If you're looking for meaningful work that truly impacts people's lives, now is the time to make the leap. What will you learn? The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) combines classroom or online learning with on-the-job practical experience. It gives you the tools to feel confident supporting people in their homes or out in the community. You’ll cover topics such as: Supporting independence : Learn how to assist people in achieving their personal goals and living the life they choose. Understanding different disabilities : Get insight into physical, intellectual and psychosocial disabilities and how to tailor your support. Communication skills : Build your ability to communicate respectfully and clearly with people with diverse needs. Working safely and ethically : Know your responsibilities around duty of care, privacy, dignity and working within legal frameworks. Personal care : Learn how to safely support daily tasks like showering, dressing and mobility. Working in teams : Develop the skills to work effectively with colleagues, allied health professionals and families. How long does it take? Most students complete the course in 6 to 18 months, depending on whether you study full-time, part-time or online. Some providers even offer flexible study options if you’re balancing other responsibilities like work or parenting. Will I get hands-on experience? Yes! One of the most valuable parts of the course is your practical placement. This is where you apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and gain firsthand experience working with people with disability. At Edmen, we understand that gaining placement can be tricky, so we’ve created the Kickstart Program . It allows eligible students to get paid while completing their placement, with real shifts that count towards your required hours. It’s the perfect way to earn, learn and build your confidence on the job. What do I need to enrol? Generally, to enrol in a Cert III Disability course, you’ll need to: Have completed Year 10 or equivalent Be at least 17 years old (some providers may vary) Have or be willing to obtain: A current National Police Check An NDIS Worker Screening Check A valid Working with Children Check (depending on your placement setting) Up-to-date immunisations (depending on provider) How much does it cost? The good news is that many state governments offer free or low-cost places for eligible students. This means you might be able to study without paying full fees - especially if you’re not working or are looking to change careers. Check out what’s available in your state through your local TAFE or registered training provider (RTO). Where can I study? The Cert III in Disability is offered through: TAFEs across Australia Private RTOs Online learning providers Not sure where to start? Try these sites to compare options: www.myskills.gov.au www.courseseeker.edu.au www.compared.edu.au Do I need to finish before I start working? Not always. At Edmen, we hire passionate people who are working toward their qualifications - especially if they’re already enrolled in a course and eager to gain experience. If you’re just starting out, check out our entry-level casual roles, where you can build your hours, learn from experienced mentors and take advantage of our flexible shifts while you study. 👉 See open positions with Edmen Studying a Cert III in Disability is more than just a course - it’s the first step into a meaningful, people-focused career. With strong job prospects, flexible work and the chance to make a difference every day, it’s no wonder so many Edmen support workers started their journey right here. Whether you’re ready to enrol or just curious to learn more, Edmen can support you on your path. Got questions about how to get started or whether you can work while studying? We’re here to help.

By Lee Robinson, Edmen Recruiter & former Youth Worker Before I joined Edmen as a recruiter, I spent years as a Youth Worker. It was tough, rewarding and raw. I met a lot of young people who had already lived through more than most adults. But something that came up time and time again - especially with the young boys - was this warped idea of what it means to be a man. In Australia’s residential care homes, many young people are healing from experiences of violence, neglect and trauma. Among the complex factors shaping their world, one dangerous undercurrent continues to surface: toxic masculinity. This isn't just a buzzword. It's a destructive set of beliefs that normalises control, aggression, emotional suppression and dominance - particularly in how young men are taught to see themselves and others. Youth workers, especially male-identifying workers, are in a powerful position to break that cycle. The stats tell a story According to the 2024 Queensland Children in Care Census, over 12,500 children are currently in government care, with more than 2,200 in residential care - a figure that has nearly tripled since 2015. Alarmingly, the census revealed that: 11% of children in out-of-home care experienced sexual abuse 46% experienced physical abuse 88% experienced neglect These are young people who’ve had their trust broken over and over again. They’ve seen what happens when power gets used the wrong way - especially by men. And then they meet us. Youth Workers. What we say and do matters. Especially if you’re a bloke like me. Netflix's "Adolescence" and the digital influence dilemma The recent Netflix documentary series Adolescence holds a mirror up to the lives of young boys around the world and how their development is being shaped by social media, misogyny and a hunger for belonging. One recurring theme? The rise of online influencers like Andrew Tate, whose brand of hyper-masculinity glorifies aggression, control over women, and emotional detachment- presented as a blueprint for "success" and "alpha status." His videos have been viewed billions of times, often on platforms young people frequent daily. In residential care, where many young people are already struggling with identity, trauma, and belonging, the appeal of figures like Tate is real - and deeply concerning. That's why the presence of healthy, grounded, emotionally intelligent male role models has never been more critical. How Youth Workers can disrupt the cycle One thing I want others thinking about this work to know: you don’t need to have it all figured out. I certainly didn’t. But being there, being honest, and being respectful - that’s what matters most. Here's how youth workers can challenge toxic masculinity and help young people - regardless of gender - redefine what it means to be strong, safe and respected: 1. Show that vulnerability is strength Toxic masculinity teaches young people that crying is weak or that talking about feelings is "soft." Youth workers who show up authentically- who admit when they're tired, frustrated, or emotional-plant the seed that all feelings are valid. "You don't have to 'man up' here. You just have to show up." 2. Model respectful relationships Many young people in care have never seen a respectful relationship- especially between men and women, or among men themselves. Youth workers who communicate calmly, resolve conflict without aggression and treat others with dignity model an entirely new way to relate. 3. Call it out - Gently and consistently When a young person repeats something rooted in misogyny, homophobia, or outdated gender roles, it's a chance to reflect, not shame. "Where did you learn that?" "How do you think that makes someone feel?" "What do we want to stand for in this house?" These small course-corrections create long-term change. 4. Proactively talk about respect, relationships and consent We can’t assume young people “just know” how to behave in a healthy relationship -especially if they’ve never seen one. That’s why we need to have the conversations before the crisis happens. Talk openly about respect, personal boundaries, consent, and emotional safety in relationships. As a former Youth Worker and someone who’s worked with The Rite Journey - a school-based program that supports teenagers in their shift into adulthood - I’ve seen firsthand how structured, honest dialogue can empower young people to be more self-aware, respectful, and resilient. When we give them the language and tools, they’re better equipped to navigate real-world situations with confidence and care. 5. Be there, every day For some young people in residential care, their youth workers are the first safe and reliable adult male role models they've known. Just being present - calmly, consistently and respectfully - is a powerful form of healing. Looking ahead As Adolescence highlights, young people today are bombarded with toxic messages about identity and gender - often before they're old enough to understand the consequences. In combination with histories of abuse or neglect, this makes them vulnerable to adopting harmful beliefs that can affect their futures, relationships and wellbeing. But in every shift, every conversation, and every moment of connection, youth workers have the power to offer something radically different. One where strength means respect. Power means kindness. And being human means being real. So if you’re thinking about becoming a Youth Worker - especially if you’re male - just know this: you’re needed. More than ever. And if you’re already doing this work- thank you. Keep showing up. Keep doing the quiet, powerful work of being the kind of man these young people can look up to, not fear. Sources: Queensland Children in Care Census 2024 Netflix Documentary Series: Adolescence (2024) News articles on Queensland's child safety system

Danielle’s journey into youth work wasn’t a conventional one. Coming from a background in the transport industry, she always had a deep connection to youth services through family friends involved in fostering. After having her youngest child and returning to transport, she felt drawn to a more meaningful career. That’s when she discovered Edmen Community Staffing Solutions. “ I found Edmen to be very supportive and communicative ,” Danielle shares. “ Starting as a Residential Youth Worker, I had no prior experience in the field, but the support I received -especially as a new youth worker - really stuck with me.” Balancing work, study, and family as a mother of three, Danielle appreciated the flexibility that Edmen offered. While completing her Certificate IV in Youth Work, she was able to gain hands-on experience, seamlessly blending theory with practice while working at Edmen’s Community Service partner, DCC. Building a strong foundation with Edmen Danielle credits Edmen for providing a strong safety net during her time as a Residential Youth Worker. “ You always had that support in the background - no judgment, just open communication ,” she explains. One experience, in particular, stood out. “ I had a tough shift where I was struggling, and my Service Coordinator, Dominic, checked in on me while I was on a sleepover shift. That level of care and support really meant a lot.” Beyond emotional support, Edmen’s support and culture helped Danielle build confidence in her abilities. She developed crucial people skills and a broader understanding of the bigger picture in youth support services. “I never once felt inadequate. My team at Edmen -coordinators like Emma, Brooke and Jess - really empowered me to grow .” Stepping into leadership After a year and a half as a Residential Youth Worker with Edmen, Danielle was ready for the next step. She took on a leadership role as a Program Service Leader with DCC. “I now oversee a team of Youth Workers at Gumnut House, ” she says. “ Unlike my previous role, I’m not as ‘hands-on’ with the young people—we have an incredible team on the floor doing that. My focus is ensuring that policies and procedures are followed and that the environment remains therapeutic for both the workers and the young people.” Danielle’s transition into leadership wasn’t without challenges. “ One of the biggest adjustments was separating myself from the youth workers I once worked alongside and setting professional boundaries. But my experience at Edmen gave me the tools to navigate those challenges with confidence.” Lessons learned and carrying them forward Reflecting on her journey, Danielle acknowledges the vital role Edmen played in shaping her career. “ Edmen taught me how to be the best support for my team. The foundations I built there mean that everything comes more naturally to me now,” she explains. Looking to the future While she loves her current role, Danielle has her sights set on future opportunities in the youth services sector. “ Eventually, I could see myself working as a Child Safety Officer or in a support role that helps families before children enter out-of-home care .” She also recognises the evolution of the industry. “ DCC has grown a lot in the past three years, and I see a lot of potential to better connect communities and families. There’s so much scope for positive change.” Advice for aspiring Youth Workers For those considering a career in youth services, Danielle offers some key advice: • Don’t overthink it. “ Take a deep breath - if you have a genuine passion for achieving the best outcomes for young people, you’ll thrive.” • Build a strong foundation. “ Having the right support early on makes all the difference. Edmen was there for me from the very beginning, and that set me up for success.” Your pathway starts with Edmen Danielle’s story is proof that a career with Edmen can be the stepping stone to bigger opportunities in youth work. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking for career growth, Edmen provides the support and flexibility to help you succeed - just like they did for Danielle.  Ready to get started? Check out our open Youth Worker roles today.

Across Australia, Early Childhood Educators are at a crossroads. As part of the 2025 Federal Budget announcements, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the early childhood education sector with targeted funding to address workforce shortages and improve quality of care. This includes $72.4 million to expand professional development and training opportunities, as well as funding to improve retention and upskill educators through nationally recognised qualifications ( Australian Government Budget 2025–26 ). While these investments are a step in the right direction, many educators are still grappling with unsustainable workloads, emotional fatigue and a desire for more meaningful progression in their careers. Many in the industry are still asking the big question: Is this enough to stay? For some, it’s prompting a natural shift toward Youth Work - an area where their passion and skills can be redirected for lasting impact. Why Youth Work? Youth Work is a dynamic, people-first career that allows you to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people navigating complex challenges. It’s purpose-driven, values-led, and built around strong relationships - something Early Childhood Educators are already experts in. At Edmen Community Staffing Solutions, we’re seeing a growing number of early childhood professionals step into Youth Work. And it makes perfect sense. Your skills are more transferrable than you think If you’re an Early Childhood Educator, you already bring so much to the table: Strong behaviour management and emotional regulation strategies Communication skills with both children and families Understanding of child development and trauma-informed practice Patience, empathy, and resilience in emotionally demanding situations Documentation and compliance experience in a regulated environment These are the same core skills that make for an exceptional youth worker. What qualifications do you need? To work as a Youth Support Worker in most settings, you’ll typically need (or be working towards) a Certificate IV in Youth Work, Community Services, or a related field. If you’ve already completed a qualification in Early Childhood, you may be able to fast-track or RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) certain units. Earn while you learn: Edmen’s Kickstart Program If you're curious but unsure whether Youth Work is the right fit, our Kickstart program is designed for people just like you. Kickstart gives you the opportunity to: ✅ Gain real, paid experience in youth residential care ✅ Access mentoring and on-the-job support ✅ Begin working while you start (or complete) your qualification ✅ Connect with a community of passionate youth workers It’s a flexible, supported entry point into the sector- and a great way to test the waters while building your future career. Time for a change? If you're an Early Childhood Educator who still loves working with young people - but craves a new challenge, more meaningful impact, or a different pace - Youth Work could be the change you’ve been looking for. At Edmen, we believe in people-powered change. Let’s help you turn your passion into a new purpose. Ready to explore? Check out our open roles or learn more about Kickstart today.

Three years ago, Chereece started her journey in youth support services as a casual youth worker with Edmen Community Staffing Solutions. With little prior experience in the field, she stepped into the role as a ‘greenie,’ working with Edmen’s community service partner, Dynamic Community Care (DCC), in Queensland. Fast forward to today, and Chereece has progressed to become an Area Manager overseeing multiple residential care programs. Her story highlights how Edmen equips youth workers with the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in the youth services sector. Building a strong foundation with Edmen When Chereece first joined Edmen, she was new to youth work, but the hands-on experience she gained in residential houses equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the sector. While working with Edmen, she completed her Certificate IV in Youth Work, laying the groundwork for her career progression. “Edmen was a great option for me at the time. Casual work was very flexible, especially with young kids at home,” Chereece explains. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and family life while developing expertise in youth support. Career growth and transitioning into leadership After returning from maternity leave to have her second daughter, Chereece sought a role with more stability. When an opportunity for a Program Service Leader position at DCC arose, she applied and successfully stepped into a leadership role. Since then, she has continued her professional growth, completing a Diploma in Community Services and advancing to an Area Manager position in Ipswich. “As an Area Manager, I work closely with house managers, oversee five residential care programs and support with child safety and placements, ” she explains. The experience she gained at Edmen provided her with a solid foundation to transition into leadership, shaping her into the manager she aspired to be. “ My time at Edmen really helped mould me into the leader I wanted to be. It’s where I found my passion and drive for the work I do. ” The impact of Edmen’s support and supervision Chereece credits Edmen’s supervision and support network for helping her develop confidence and competence in youth work. “ Even though I was fairly new to the industry, working with Edmen provided me with the support and ‘village’ you need in this line of work ,” she shares. “ Supervision sessions were also beneficial in ensuring I felt confident while on the job .” She continues to maintain strong relationships with the Edmen team, recognising the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving the best outcomes for young people. Lessons learned and advice for aspiring Youth Workers Reflecting on her journey, Chereece acknowledges that starting as a youth worker can be daunting, but the right support makes all the difference. “ When you start off as a Youth Worker, it’s hard to know what to expect. There are lots of unknowns, but Edmen provides a space where you feel supported and always have the backing of a team. ” For those considering a career in youth work, Chereece offers this advice: Do it for the right reasons. “ The best Youth Workers are the ones with a genuine passion for the work .” Prioritise self-care. “ This job can be intense and looking after yourself is key to staying in the industry long-term. ” Celebrate small wins. “ Recognising progress, no matter how small, helps get through the tough days. ” Seek support. “ Even the most brilliant Youth Workers need a strong support system to succeed. ” Looking to the future With her next milestone on the horizon- welcoming a new baby later this year - Chereece remains committed to the youth services sector. While she enjoys her current role, the next future growth opportunity would be potentially stepping into an Operations Manager role down the track. For now, she’s content knowing she is making a difference. “ I love my current role because I’m still close to the floor, working directly with young people. I think being an Area Manager really suits me.” A career pathway with Edmen Chereece’s journey is an example of how Edmen provides opportunities for growth, from entry-level roles to leadership positions with our community service partners. With the right support, training, and hands-on experience, a career in youth services can be both rewarding and full of progression. If you’re considering a career in youth support services, Edmen offers the flexibility and support to help you thrive - just like Chereece. Ready to get started? Check out our open Youth Worker roles today.

What is an Assessment Centre and How is it Used in Recruiting Disability and Youth Support Workers? An assessment centre is a part of the recruitment process. It helps companies see if you are the right person for the job. Instead of just asking questions, they give you tasks to do, like assessing how you would react to certain scenarios you could encounter on shift. This is used a lot when hiring disability and youth support workers. Why Do Companies Use Assessment Centres? Support work is about more than skills – it’s about how you handle tough situations and work with others. Here's why assessment centres are important: Real-Life scenarios : You will be asked to handle situations similar to what you might face on the job. For example, you might need to solve a problem or help someone in need. Teamwork: Support workers often work with others. In group tasks, the company sees how well you work with a team. Fair evaluation : Everyone gets the same tasks. This way, companies can see who has the skills for the job in a fair way. What Happens at an Assessment Centre? Here are some things you might do at an assessment centre: Role-playing : You may act out a scene where you help a person with a disability or a young person. This shows how you listen and help others. Group work : You might need to solve a problem as a group. This shows your teamwork and leadership skills. Interviews: Some assessment centres also have short interviews. Written tasks : You may need to write a report or notes. This helps them see how you write and follow instructions. Set Realistic Expectations: You’re not expected to be an expert on day one. Set achievable goals for yourself and celebrate when you hit them. Small steps lead to big changes. How Can You Prepare? Know the job : Make sure you understand what a disability or youth support worker does. Think about how you would act in hard situations. Learn about the company : Read about the company’s values and how they work. Practice: Try role-playing or practicing with a friend to get ready. Be yourself : Stay calm and show who you are. This is your chance to show your skills. Be engaging and present your best self on the day : Your ability to interact with the presenter and your peers is a part of the assessment. Make sure you are participating and treating the day as you would a job interview.

What is PACE? PACE is more than just a framework; it’s a way of thinking, feeling, and interacting. It helps young people feel safe, understood, and supported. By integrating playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, and empathy into our interactions, we can build stronger, more meaningful connections that encourage trust and emotional growth. Playfulness: Keeping Things Light Laughter and joy play a critical role in building relationships. Approaching situations with a playful attitude —using lighthearted tones, storytelling, or humor—can diffuse tension and make difficult conversations feel safer. It’s not about making light of serious issues, but rather creating an environment where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Example: A young person refuses to participate in an activity. Instead of pushing, a playful approach might be, “Alright, but I bet you can’t beat me at rock-paper-scissors first!” This simple moment of fun can shift the energy and open the door for engagement. Acceptance: Meeting Them Where They Are Acceptance means acknowledging a young person’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It doesn’t mean condoning harmful behaviours, but rather validating their emotions so they feel heard and understood. Example: If a young person is angry because of a house rule, rather than dismissing their feelings, you could say, “I can see that you’re really frustrated about this rule. It’s okay to feel that way. Let’s talk about why it’s in place and how we can work through it together.” Curiosity: Understanding the 'Why' Instead of reacting with frustration when a young person behaves in a challenging way, approach the situation with curiosity. This means genuinely seeking to understand why they’re acting a certain way, without assumption or blame. Example: If a young person lashes out, instead of saying, “Why would you do that?” in an accusatory tone, a curious response could be, “I wonder what’s making you feel this way right now?” This encourages reflection and fosters open dialogue. Empathy: Walking Alongside Them Empathy is about being present and feeling with the young person. It’s letting them know that they’re not alone in their struggles and that their emotions matter. Example: When a young person is upset, rather than just saying, “You’ll be fine,” try, “I can see that you’re really upset. That must be really hard for you. I’m here to help you through it.” PACE in Practice Incorporating PACE into youth work takes practice. It requires slowing down, tuning in, and being mindful of your own emotions. You won’t always get it right, and that’s okay. What matters is the effort to create a safe, supportive space for young people to grow and heal. At Edmen, we encourage all our youth workers to adopt the PACE approach. By doing so, we’re not just providing care—we’re fostering trust, connection, and positive change in the lives of young people. When PACE Doesn't Work It’s important to note that when a young person is in fight, flight, or freeze mode, the PACE model won’t be effective in that moment. When they are in a heightened state of stress, they are no longer thinking rationally—they are trying to protect themselves. In these situations, it’s crucial to focus on de-escalation techniques to help them feel safe again before attempting to re-engage with PACE. This might include giving them space, using grounding techniques, or simply being a calm and reassuring presence until they are ready to reconnect. Interested in learning more about PACE? For more information, visit Dr Hughes' website - DDP Network

A case of speed and personalised care Sam*, a Youth Worker at Edmen, experienced a significant injury at work. Given the severity of the injury, Cassandra Burriel, from PeopleIN’s Recover at Work team, acted quickly to ensure Sam was receiving the immediate and appropriate medical and emotional support. “Given the psychological toll such incidents can take, we arranged early intervention counselling through our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to ensure Sam had the resources he needed within 24 hours. We recognised Sam's strong desire to return to work, but we also understood the importance of a gradual and supported reintegration. Initially, we kept him engaged with remote work, offering office-based duties or administrative tasks until he was medically cleared to resume his usual responsibilities.” This approach allowed Sam to stay connected to work while supporting both his physical recovery and emotional well-being. Thanks to the customised support from PeopleIN and Edmen, Sam made a smooth transition back to work without setbacks. How the PeopleIN Recover at Work Program Works PeopleIN's Recover at Work program focuses on 3 key principles: early intervention, tailored support, and gradual reintegration into the workplace. Here’s how it works: 1.Early Intervention Once an injury occurs and is reported, the Recover at Work team takes immediate action, coordinating medical appointments and providing psychological support. Cassandra emphasises that early intervention helps prevent the emotional toll from escalating, ensuring that the employee is well-supported from the moment the injury occurs. "The most important thing we do is provide psychological and physical support," she explains. "Even after a minor incident, we encourage workers to access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to ensure they have the mental health support they need, as everyone reacts to stress differently." 2. Tailored Support & Return-to-Work Plans After an injury, the Recover at Work team collaborates with the employee, medical professionals, and the host client to develop a tailored return-to-work plan. This plan may involve modified duties or a gradual increase in hours, focusing on the individual’s specific recovery needs. PeopleIN’s large network of resources, including GP services and physiotherapy consultations, plays a crucial role in speeding up recovery. Cassandra notes, "We understand the challenges our workers face, especially with treatment access. Our network allows workers to get the care they need immediately, speeding up the recovery process." 3. Reintegration into the workplace  The team works closely with Edmen’s host clients to ensure suitable duties are available for injured workers. This might involve light duties, office-based tasks, or, if necessary, remote work. Engaging employees during their recovery is essential in preventing feelings of isolation and maintaining their sense of purpose. “We always check with the client to see if they can provide suitable on-site duties. If on-site work isn’t an option, we explore office-based duties—either at the client's office or, if they’re local to us, at one of the PeopleIN offices.” explains Cassandra. Benefits of the PeopleIN Recover at Work Program for Edmen’s clients The Recover at Work program offers clear benefits for Edmen’s community service clients: Maintain a consistent workforce : Keeps employees engaged and connected, reducing disconnection and improving the transition back to work. Improved return to work timeframes : With a 90% RTW rate and employees returning 2 weeks sooner than the industry average, clients experience quicker workforce recovery. Reduce exposure to common law : Minimises legal risks by ensuring compliance and managing the return-to-work process effectively. Increased productivity and retention : Enhances workforce stability by reducing absenteeism, boosting productivity, and increasing employee satisfaction and retention. For Edmen, this means a safer, smoother return-to-work process and stronger relationships with both employees and clients. To learn more about PeopleIN’s diversified workforce solutions, contact us today.