I understand firsthand how challenging it can be for adults with disabilities to find meaningful employment. A structured, supported work environment can be a vital stepping stone towards independence and improved mental health. I've witnessed the transformative power of such opportunities, observing how they not only benefit individuals but also enrich our society as a whole.

The closure and reduction of supported employment facilities, such as those operated by the Activ Foundation across Western Australia, have left many individuals with intellectual, mental health, and physical disabilities without suitable employment options. While open-market employment may serve some, it is clear that a significant portion of Western Australians with disabilities thrive best in environments that are specifically tailored, adaptive, and highly supportive.

Instead of integrating without sufficient support, these individuals face the risk of further social isolation and declining mental health. Reports and studies indicate that supportive employment can alleviate mental health symptoms and improve overall quality of life for those with disabilities. Jobs in sheltered workshops provide a sense of purpose, structure, and community that many individuals find hard to achieve elsewhere.

PACE (Public Awareness and Community Education) studies highlight that supported employment not only improves the lives of those directly involved but also offers substantial benefits to the broader community through enhanced productivity, reduced welfare dependency, and the cultivation of inclusive workplace practices.

We urge the Western Australian government to take decisive action to restore and expand supported employment services across the state. Legislative and financial support need to be allocated to ensure these indispensable opportunities remain available to all individuals with disabilities. Investing in these programs is an investment in the betterment of our community.

By signing this petition, you help transform lives by advocating for the reinstatement and support of crucial employment services for people with disabilities in Western Australia. Please join us in making a meaningful change. Your signature matters.