Providing holistic support for long-term change
Holistic employment support recognises that finding work is not always the first or only barrier a person may be facing. For many job seekers, employment is closely connected to housing, identification documents, transport, confidence, legal matters, financial stability, health, family responsibilities and access to training.
Real Futures works with people to provide wraparound support that addresses these practical and personal barriers. Wraparound support means looking at the whole person, not just their employment status, and helping them build the foundations they need to move toward independence, stability and meaningful work.
When Marko first connected with Real Futures in 2021, life was uncertain. He was moving between towns, unemployed and facing many challenges.
Facing multiple barriers
At the time, Marko had no stable housing, no Proof of Identity, financial hardship and involvement with the law. Without stable documents, secure housing or a clear pathway forward, it was difficult for him to access services, prepare for employment or plan for the future.
Proof of Identity is essential for many parts of everyday life, including accessing government services, applying for jobs, opening bank accounts, enrolling in training and securing housing. Without it, even simple steps toward employment can become difficult.
But Marko was ready to change his future.
Rebuilding the foundations
Real Futures worked alongside Marko to help him rebuild stability and regain control of his future. The support focused on removing immediate barriers while also helping him prepare for long-term employment.
We supported Marko to:
- Obtain his Proof of Identity
- Reconnect with the Department of Housing
- Access job readiness support through workshops and referrals
- Participate in work experience opportunities
- Work toward getting his driver’s licence through the Driving Access and Equity Program, known as DAEP, to increase his independence and job opportunities
The Driving Access and Equity Program supports people who face barriers to getting their licence, helping improve access to employment, education, services and community participation. For Marko, working toward his licence was an important step toward independence.
Taking the initiative
With his confidence restored, Marko began to take initiative and look for new opportunities.
He applied for a position with the Shire of Carnarvon through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development Program, known as RJED. RJED supports employment and economic participation in remote communities by creating local jobs and helping people build skills through meaningful work.
Marko was successful.
He is now working in a hands-on role supporting verge maintenance, road repairs, fencing and general maintenance. The role has given him structure, purpose and the chance to contribute to his local community.
Supporting the transition into work
Starting a new job can bring new challenges, especially after a long period of uncertainty. To help ease Marko’s transition into employment, Real Futures provided practical support so he could arrive prepared and stay connected to work.
We supported him with:
- Personal protective equipment, also known as PPE, so he could work safely
- A push bike so he could travel to work while continuing to work toward obtaining his driver’s licence
This practical support helped remove immediate barriers and gave Marko the tools he needed to succeed in the early stages of employment.
Building confidence, routine and future goals
At first, starting work at 7:00 AM and taking on weekend shifts was a big adjustment for Marko. But he has embraced the challenge and is proud to be part of a hardworking team.
His three children are his biggest motivation to keep going. They continue to inspire him to stay focused, build stability and create a stronger future.
Marko now has his sights set on gaining further tickets and qualifications, opening more options for career progression.
With stability, practical assistance, employment preparation and ongoing encouragement from Real Futures, Marko has moved from uncertainty to meaningful work and a clearer pathway forward.
