Concerns raised over how Australian Disability Enterprise funding boost will assist with Activ transition

In a recent announcement by the State Government, Australian Disability Enterprises across WA will receive a grant of up to $100,000 to support Activ employees transition to other workplace opportunities.

Earlier this year it was announced that the Activ Foundation had plans to close its large-scale industrial work sites for good, which currently support more than 750 employees with disabilities.

Activ Rockingham volunteer Martin de Haas said that Activ Rockingham is uncertain how this funding will assist any of the current employees amidst possible work-site closures.

“There is no ADE (Australian Disability Enterprise) within reasonable proximity to Rockingham, that might work for others in other Activ workshops, however, we are unsure how this will assist the Rockingham people,” Mr de Haas said.

Mr de Haas said that for some employees, transitioning out of Activ employment just wouldn’t work because Activ provides the support to engage with all disabilities.

“For a lot of people transitioning out of Activ would cause trauma having to relocate, and to re-engage with new workmates, systems and process,” he said.

“We are trying to remind people we’re dealing with people with intellectual and physical disabilities, it takes a lot for them to come out of their comfort zone and go into a new one.

“We are waiting on further information through the transition Task Force to address these other issues.”

Disability Services Minister Don Punch said the funding from the State Government will help support people with disability and the sectors that support them.

“Many of the people employed at Activ have told us they want to continue to work in an environment very similar to their current arrangements at Activ, and we want to ensure they are continued this opportunity with another ADE in Western Australia,” Mr Punch said.

“The McGowan Government is working with Western Australia’s other Australian Disability Enterprises to find options that may suit some of Activ’s supported employees, should they choose to join another ADE.

“This includes working with other ADEs in developing new employment possibilities.”