The National Retail Association (NRA) has joined forces with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to launch the Ready and Able project to assist employers develop inclusive hiring practices, with resources and information to encourage employing a person with a disability.

The Ready and Able web portal provides employers with resources including education surrounding workplace laws, protections and information to guide employers on the best practice when employing a person with a disability.

National Retail Association CEO Dominque Lamb said with over 4.4 million people in Australia having some form of disability, it was important that retailers  have the resources necessary for equal opportunity employment in the workforce. “The retail industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, however as retail makes a comeback and employment starts up again, employers should consider applicants of all backgrounds and capabilities.

“There are so many benefits to employing someone with a disability, and of the 2.1 million Australians of working age with a disability just under half are employed compared with 80 per cent of people without a disability,” she said.  

The information provided on the website will help retail employers when considering employing a person with a disability and overcome any blockages they may encounter. “If we are able to provide the steps and resources and inform both employees and employers of the workplace laws when hiring someone with a disability, we are certain we can make a positive impact on equal employment and inclusivity,” Lamb said.

The project was launched alongside the Ready and Able Hotline, a free service for employers looking to discuss disability employment with NRA Workplace law experts. The hotline number is: 1800 445 522, available during business hours, Monday to Friday.

For more information visit: readyandable.com.au. 

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