This course is designed to meet the needs of Disability Employment Professionals, with an emphasis on Customised Employment and Discovery. The program is mapped against the Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE) competencies, the recognised global standard for Customised Employment training. It requires 40 hours of training and examination, along with comprehensive support and mentoring beyond the training. On successful completion, participants will receive an ACRE Certificate acknowledging their expertise in delivering Customised Employment.

This course has been certified by ACRE as meeting the known competencies for the ACRE Recognised Basic Certificate in Customised Employment. It is the only Customised Employment program certified outside of the USA and is delivered by ACRE-recognised trainers. The Centre for Disability Employment Research and Practice (CDERP), a leading international employment research and training group, is the only ACRE member outside of the USA.

The Customised Employment Program offers a comprehensive deep dive into the concepts, practices, and models of Customised Employment. Delivered through a series of modules, this course equips participants with the tools needed to foster meaningful employment outcomes for people with disabilities. It has been specifically researched and written to ensure that Australian legislation, policy, and funding requirements are addressed and that the material and practice are relevant. At the same time, it provides comparisons with these settings in the USA that have driven the development of Customised Employment globally.

Topics include Discovery, job development, work experience, self-employment, and post-placement support, along with a strong focus on person-centred practices, social capital, and self-advocacy. The course incorporates practical exercises, quizzes, and mentoring to solidify participants' learning and promote real-world application. It will also provide background knowledge on comparable developments and supports in the USA, the home of Customised Employment. This program draws on our research and practice, which are underpinned by extensive research partnerships globally and our valued technical alliance with Griffin Hammis Associates, the pioneers in Customised Employment for over forty years. Within the subject areas, you will find over eighty topics, along with videos, quizzes and assessments to support your learning journey.

This course aligns with APSE1st and ACRE competencies, is globally recognised as the gold standard for Customised Employment training, and is the only ACRE-accredited Course recognised outside of the USA.

Key Features

• Mapped to Global Standards: Aligned with APSE1st and ACRE competencies.
• Comprehensive Modules: Covers over 90 topics, including Discovery, job development, self-employment, and post-placement support.
• Mentoring & Support: Ongoing mentorship is provided to solidify knowledge and encourage real-world application.
• Interactive Learning: Includes videos, quizzes, assessments, and practical exercises.
• Global Insights: Draws on CDERP's partnerships and Griffin Hammis Associates' expertise, with additional context on U.S. employment practices.

What You'll Learn
This program offers an immersive learning experience across core topics essential for achieving person-centred employment outcomes:

• Discovery & Vocational Themes: Identify individual strengths and skills through structured Discovery processes.
• Job Development & Employer Engagement: Build tailored job roles and connect with employers through innovative strategies, including job carving and accommodations.
• Work Experience & School-to-Work Transitions: Facilitate meaningful work placements and assist young adults transitioning from school to employment.
• Self-Employment & Business Planning: Empower participants to explore self-employment options for clients, fostering autonomy and self-determination.
• Post-Placement Support: Implement mentorship, natural supports, and workplace accommodations for sustained employment success.

Course Objectives
By completing the Customised Employment Professional Program, participants will:

• Grasp the foundational principles of Customised Employment and person-centred practices.
• Develop practical skills in Discovery, informational interviews, and job carving.
• Gain confidence in employer engagement using both community-based and digital platforms.
• Understand the application of disability legislation and individualised funding models.
• Facilitate self-determined career planning and support clients pursuing self-employment.
• Manage effective post-placement support, promoting skills acquisition and fading external supports.

Who Should Enrol?
This course is ideal for disability employment professionals, career counsellors, service providers, and educators seeking to deepen their expertise in Customised Employment practices and promote inclusive work environments.

The Customised Employment Program offers a transformative experience. It empowers participants to implement real-world employment strategies that enhance opportunities for individuals with disabilities. With extensive mentoring and practical learning tools, this program equips participants with everything needed to achieve long-term, person-centred employment outcomes.