Seth: Finding Employment in Retail – Mildura

Meet 19-year-old Seth from Mildura, who has an Autism diagnosis. Since joining the School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program in March 2023, Seth has been pursuing his passion for animals and fishing while studying for a Certificate in Work Education at SuniTAFE.

Recognizing Seth’s strong interests and his desire to work in retail, his Employment Preparation & Engagement Consultant (EPEC), Ashley Chambers, took the initiative to connect him with Kym, the owner of Mildura Outdoor & Tackle, a popular locally owned fishing shop. Kym generously offered Seth a chance to gain valuable work experience, allowing him to work one day a week for a total of seven weeks from April to May 2024.

To ensure a smooth transition into the workplace, Ashley attended Seth’s first two shifts, providing support and guidance. By the third week, Seth had gained enough confidence to tackle his tasks independently. He diligently completed a variety of responsibilities, including cleaning and organizing store shelves, unboxing and checking new inventory, and ensuring all items were properly tagged and displayed.

As his time at the fishing shop progressed, Seth had the opportunity to experience both the fast and slow days of retail. He developed essential customer service and communication skills, eventually becoming comfortable enough to engage in conversations with customers and staff about fishing tips and the best local spots. The positive feedback from Kym and the staff was overwhelming; they appreciated Seth’s contributions and expressed how much they enjoyed having him on board. At the conclusion of his work experience, Kym provided Seth with high marks on a feedback form and even offered to be a reference for future job applications. Although Seth was unable to secure ongoing employment at the store due to the winter slowdown, his experience solidified his passion for retail and his desire to pursue open employment in the industry.

Ashley Chambers reflected on Seth’s growth, saying, “In the beginning, Seth wasn’t sure of his capabilities but as he got more comfortable in the workplace, he was eager to take on more opportunities to learn new skills and didn’t waiver when it came to trying something new—he would just get in and give it a go.”

Seth’s story exemplifies how targeted support and practical experience can empower young individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams. With newfound confidence and skills, Seth is well on his way to achieving his career aspirations in retail, inspired by his love for fishing and animals.

To discover more about how are-able is transforming lives through meaningful employment, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated team today. With five years of experience helping NDIS participants find and keep a job, we’re here to support you in achieving your employment goals. Explore your achieve-able pathway from school to employment under the NDIS, and let us guide you on your journey to success! Top 3 Registered Provider for open employment outcomes, three years in a row!