Australia's peak retail body, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), has launched the Retail Ready and Able program in Queensland to connect jobseekers with a disability to employment opportunities within the retail sector.
Retail Ready and Able aims to empower and upskill Queenslanders who face employment barriers because of a physical, mental, or emotional challenge, whilst also addressing stigmas, and shifting mindsets when it comes to employing people with varying disabilities.
As part of the program, jobseekers will undertake training pathways, work placement and post-placement support.
ARA CEO Paul Zahra said jobseekers with a disability should be afforded the same opportunities as everybody else - and the Retail Ready and Able program provides an important foundation for bridging the gap.
"Sadly, due to stigmas and misconceptions, individuals with a disability do find it more difficult to find meaningful employment," Mr Zahra said.
"Improving the diversity, equality and inclusion opportunities for people with a disability is an important focus for the retail sector.
"The Retail Ready and Able program is aiming to assist more than 100 jobseekers enter the retail industry within the next 6 months, and we hope that this program has a flow-on effect across the industry."
