For young people across the country, the transition from school to work can be a challenging time. For Ashton, a young man from the Central Coast living with autism, this journey required even more courage, determination, and the right people to help him along the way.
When Ashton first came on board with Asuria's Disability Employment Services (DES) program in mid-2023, he was in his final year of high school, facing the dual challenge of completing Year 12 while preparing to enter the workforce. Living with autism meant Ashton experienced social and communication difficulties that made the average workplace environment quite challenging. Finding the right workplace—and the right employer—wasn’t going to straightforward.
Enter Cassandra Sheehan, Ashton's Mentor at Asuria. Beginning in September 2023, Cassandra worked closely with Ashton to develop a support strategy tailored to his unique needs. Morning appointments helped to establish a structured routine for Ashton, while phone-based tools like calendars and reminders helped him to stay organised and on track with his commitments.
Understanding the importance of building confidence gradually, Cassandra worked on a step-by-step approach to developing Ashton’s skills and competencies. They practiced interview scenarios and focussed on improving social skills and communication, while breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps helped reduce stress for Ashton and boost his independence.
Living in a small community on the Central Coast meant employment options were unlikely to be abundant, particularly given Ashton’s need for somewhere able to accommodate shorter shifts to manage fatigue and a structured setting for client interactions.
But Ashton's interest in sports led to a promising direction for his job search.
The breakthrough came in early 2024, when Cassandra accompanied Ashton to a job interview at Peak Physique Gym. There she provided crucial support, advocating for accommodations during the interview process and helping to showcase Ashton's strength.
Cassandra and Ashton’s personal approach paid off, and in March 2024, Ashton began his role at Peak Physique Umina Beach.
The impact of employment on Ashton's life has been nothing short of transformative. Under the guidance of gym owner, Teik, who brings valuable experience in disability support work, Ashton has flourished.
His attention to detail and initiative have made him a valued team member – from his thorough equipment cleaning to voluntarily taking on additional tasks like kitchen duties. More importantly, Ashton's confidence has grown significantly, helping him to interact with customers and handle responsibilities with increasing independence.
Beyond the workplace, Ashton's personal development has also come on leaps and bounds. He's currently taking driving lessons and working toward his provisional license – a significant step toward greater independence. His career aspirations are expanding too, with plans to explore opportunities in landscaping apprenticeships, supported by his ongoing relationship with his Asuria Mentor.
“Working at the gym with Teik is my first ever job, and I was a little nervous and unsure about it at first,” says Ashton. “But I picked up everything quickly, and I really like that it's a job in a gym because I enjoy sports and exercise. Having this job has helped me build a better routine and gives me the chance to talk with people."
Ashton's success story wouldn’t have been possible without employers’ willingness to embrace inclusive hiring practices and create accommodating work environments. These opportunities don't just provide jobs – they open doors to independence, confidence, and personal growth for people who might otherwise face significant barriers to employment, setting people like Ashton on track towards a life of limitless potential.
If you have a disability, injury, or health condition and would like assistance in preparing, finding and keeping a job, check out our Disability Employment Services here to find out more!