In the bustling world of construction, Matt Creswick found himself at a crossroads in his late teenage years. His mainstream job’s emphasis on self-reliance and toughness left him feeling undervalued and unfulfilled.
It was a far cry from what he truly desired: a supportive and inclusive work environment where he could thrive. That’s when Matt began working at Burleigh Heads social enterprise, a decision that would transform his professional and personal life.
A new beginning at Burleigh Heads social enterprise
At Burleigh Heads social enterprise, Matt discovered a workplace centred on tailored training, empowerment and understanding. Unlike his previous job in construction, where support was limited, Matt truly felt part of a team and formed lifelong friendships. It was also here that he met Kristel, who is now his life partner.
Over his 11-year tenure, Matt excelled in packaging and assembly and pursued further qualifications. This included forming a study group with a few of his colleagues to attain certifications in forklift operation and first aid together.
He even completed a 4WD driving course, becoming the first person we support to attend a Great Endeavour Rally as a driver.
With each achievement, Matt’s interpersonal skills, confidence and independence continued to reach new heights, renewing his interest in mainstream employment – a pathway his team enthusiastically endorsed.
Matt’s pathway to mainstream employment
Three years ago, they offered Matt the opportunity to work once a week at Reedy Creek Waste and Recycling Centre. Under the mentorship of Shift Supervisor Gary Stacey, Matt familiarised himself with the waste facility, learnt the ropes and formed meaningful relationships with the mainstream team.
When a Recycling Assistant position became available at the waste facility earlier this year, Matt’s team at Burleigh Heads encouraged him to apply and helped him through the recruitment process.
After acing his interview, Matt earnt his ticket to re-enter mainstream employment, but this time with an inclusive employer that made him feel valued and supported.
Matt’s transition to mainstream employment was seamless, thanks to his previous work experience and established relationships at Reedy Creek. Initially, he and his Mum feared potentially losing his Disability Support Pension (DSP) if he changed jobs, which could be challenging to regain if the new role didn’t work out. This is a valid concern as the DSP provides financial stability for many people with disability. Fortunately, Matt’s growing confidence in his abilities helped ease these worries. Gary also supported Matt and his mother in navigating Centrelink and ensuring they had the information needed to make informed decisions, which led to them retaining Matt’s pension. This allowed him to focus on his new role without financial stress.
Now two months in, Matt is thriving and has embraced the challenge of working in a customer-facing position – the first in his career.
He enjoys the diverse responsibilities of his job, which include inspecting vehicle loads, directing drivers to the appropriate recycling areas and helping people unload their vehicles to ensure safety requirements are met.
The task of managing potentially rude or difficult customers was daunting at first for Matt, but he quickly found his stride by leveraging his strong interpersonal skills and understanding that he could escalate situations to his supervisor if needed. His growing confidence and experience have not only provided him with the skills to handle challenging situations effectively but have also strengthened his sense of belonging at work.
Matt embraces his independence
Matt looks back on his journey with immense pride. He said even though he misses working with his friends at Burleigh social enterprise, he values the increased independence and financial security his new role provides as he and Kristel plan their future.
“While I loved working at Burleigh social enterprise and it gave me a good safety net, I eventually felt ready to step out on my own. I’m excited to keep learning and growing,” he said.
Matt also enjoys the flexibility of his job and is proud to know that the waste facility’s Recycle Market helps fund our services through the sale of recovered household items.
When asked what advice he would give people with disability wanting to pursue mainstream employment Matt said:
Look into your Disability Support Pension so you understand how it may be affected if you change jobs. But don’t let challenges scare you because they are what helps you to grow. If you have a goal in mind, go for it. You can do so many great things when you have a good team or people around you to back you up.
Matt’s journey emphasises the importance of providing more work opportunities for people with disability and nurturing open, accessible and inclusive work environments to set them up for success. With the right support, accommodations and understanding, mainstream employment can be within reach for anyone who seeks it.
Visit our website to learn more about the meaningful employment pathways we offer for people with disability. Our approach to Work services aligns with our Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2030, which prioritises five key outcomes that are important to people we support, including having a paid job that’s right for them.
News
View all
Director Election Expression of Interest
Are you in email overload?
Grant funding brings new life to Alex Hills L&L
BRACE proposed changes
Fire Services – Chubb Fire & Security is our new provider
