Sonder has been selected to deliver specialist employment services for people with mental health challenges in metropolitan Adelaide, as part of the Federal Government’s new Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) program.
IEA replaced the Disability Employment Services (DES) program from 1 November 2025, offering people the tailored support they need to find and keep a job and thrive.
Employers may also be eligible to access $10,000 per eligible jobseeker employed.
As one of South Australia’s largest providers of mental health services, Sonder is uniquely positioned to help jobseekers with mental health challenges build confidence, find fulfilling work, and thrive in inclusive workplaces.
We also bring extensive experience in employment support, having delivered the evidence-based Individual Placement Support model through programs such as headspace Work & Study for young people and Employment Solutions for migrants and refugees.
Through IEA, we partner with employers and provide tailored assistance to help you confidently hire individuals with mental health challenges. Plus, we’re there for the long term, offering ongoing support to both you and your employee.
Why partner with Sonder for Inclusive Employment Australia?
With vast experience in mental health, wellbeing, and employment services, Sonder has helped thousands of people prepare for, find, and thrive in work. By partnering with us for IEA, you'll access a range of benefits:
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Build your workforce
Our team pre-screens candidates, matches them to your needs, and provides in-work support to ensure long-term success.
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Create an inclusive workplace
We guide employers to build inclusive, mentally healthy teams through practical workplace adjustments, tailored training, and ongoing support for both the employee and the workplace.
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Save time and money
IEA is a government-funded program — there’s no cost to you or the participant to access our services.
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Strengthen your team and culture
Inclusive, mentally healthy workplaces are proven to improve productivity, engagement, and retention — reducing absenteeism and turnover while creating stronger, more resilient teams.
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Access additional benefits
Employers may also be eligible for wage subsidies, workplace modifications, and other supports to assist with onboarding and retention.
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Be part of the change
By partnering with IEA, you’re helping to transform how workplaces think about inclusion — shaping a future where inclusive employment is standard, not exceptional.
How it works
1. Understanding your business
We start by getting to know your workplace and your needs as an employer.
2. Matching candidates
Our team identifies suitable candidates and pre-screens for any skills or training gaps.
3. Interviewing candidates
You meet the candidates we recommend.
4. Onboarding and ongoing support
We ensure a smooth transition for both employer and employee by assisting and troubleshooting at any stage, for as long as needed.
What makes our candidates stand out?
Our participants are supported through career coaching, skills development, and wraparound wellbeing support.
They bring:
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The right skills and qualifications for your industry.
- Motivation and commitment to long-term careers.
- Lived experience that adds diversity and resilience to your team.
- Alignment with your organisation’s social responsibility goals.
Register your interest
We are accepting IEA registrations of interest from employers looking to build inclusive, values-aligned teams and NDIS service providers seeking the right partner for their participants. If you would like to be involved, register your interest today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Inclusive Employment Australia is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
Sonder is delivering IEA in partnership with the Australian Refugee Association, supporting people from refugee backgrounds, and OARS Community Transitions, supporting people with a history of offending.