WDEA Works is a community-focused, not-for-profit organisation. Founded in 1989 in Warrnambool, Victoria, WDEA Works was established to assist people with a disability enter the workforce.

Initially commencing with 3 employees, WDEA Works has since grown to employ over 500 employees, across 17 full time regional locations across northern, central and western Victoria as well as south east South Australia. The business offering has extended to include Disability Employment Services (DES), jobactive program, Social Enterprises, National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) programs and activities and is also a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

WDEA Works’ purpose is to create opportunities for inclusiveness in communities. With a long history of supporting people with disability, jobseekers and the broader community, WDEA Works’ vision is united under the four core values of Integrity, Respect, Empathy and Innovation. Inclusion and diversity will continue to frame WDEA Works’ vision, with expanded community involvement. By building relationships within the community, WDEA Works will continue to leverage their available resources to support individuals and drive positive change.

WDEA Works continuously gives back to the communities in which it operates through the WDEA Works Foundation; a fund established to support community activities that enable organisations to improve access and opportunities for people living with disability. This ensures that activities, programs, services and projects to support people with a disability continue to have the funding and support they need to operate and exist within an inclusive space.

WDEA Works’ number one priority is the safety and wellbeing of its workforce, with a commitment to providing a supportive and rewarding environment for all employees. The development and progress of individual employees is fundamental to the organisation’s culture and performance, with various policies, systems, and practices supporting employees in their personal growth and development. WDEA Works’ internal rewards and recognition program, combined with regular feedback channels, ensures that communication contributes to cultivating a positive and engaging culture.

WDEA Works demonstrated their commitment to employee wellbeing and satisfaction during the recent Covid-19 pandemic, forming a Covid Crisis Management Team responsible for monitoring and imparting the information provided by health authorities. Additional resources and supports were provided to all employees, with regular check ins undertaken by Managers and members of the People & Culture team, ensuring employee wellbeing and mental health was of a top priority. WDEA Works applied learnings from working from home during COVID-19, implementing a Flexible Work Arrangement Policy which enables employees to request flexible hours and/or to work from “anywhere”.

WDEA Works will continue to strive for best practice in serving its community and its workforce. By aligning strategic objectives with the organisation’s values and purpose, WDEA Works will continue to build and maintain a high-quality workforce, ensuring that the focus is on employee wellbeing and engagement.

For more information about WDEA Works go to wdeaworks.org.au