Sonder now delivers support to job seekers with mental health challenges through Inclusive Employment Australia. Learn More

Inclusive Employment Australia

Helping people with mental health challenges to find meaningful work through tailored support.

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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.

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 continue this commitment — specialising in tailored support that empowers people with mental health challenges to achieve their goals.

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What do we offer?

Whether you’re starting your very first job, re-entering the workforce, or making a career change, our focus is on helping you succeed and thrive long-term.

  • Career coaching

    Work one-on-one with a Career Coach to explore your skills, strengths, and career goals.

  • Job search & preparation

    We’ll support you with resumes, applications, interview practice, and finding the right opportunities.

  • Peer mentoring

    Practical support and encouragement from Vocational Peer Practitioners with their own lived experience of mental health challenges.

  • On-the-job support

    Once you start work, we’re here as long as you need us. We’ll help you settle in and support you and your employer for the first year and beyond.

  • Extensive employer connections

    Access opportunities through our strong relationships with diverse local employers.

  • Wraparound care

    Additional support through Sonder’s health and wellbeing services to meet your broader needs.

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Are you an employer looking to build a more inclusive team?

Sonder’s Inclusive Employment Australia service can help you find motivated, job-ready candidates at no cost to your business.

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Why choose Sonder?

At Sonder, we know that finding meaningful work is about more than just getting a job — it’s about building confidence, maintaining wellbeing, and creating a career that lasts.

  • Specialist expertise in mental health

    With decades of experience, we understand the unique barriers faced by people living with mental health challenges.

  • Trusted community reputation

    We’re a not-for-profit organisation with a long history of delivering quality services across South Australia.

  • Integrated support under one roof

    Access a full range of support in one place including mental health, alcohol and other drug use, homelessness, disability, employment, Aboriginal health and chronic disease.

  • Local connections

    Our strong relationships with employers, training providers, and community services mean more opportunities and better outcomes.

  • Genuine, person-centred care

    We’ll always treat you with respect, dignity, and compassion, making sure you feel safe and supported.

  • Safe and inclusive approach

    We embrace diversity and deliver services that are culturally safe, trauma-informed, and inclusive.

Learn more about us

Accessing the service

Am I eligible?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a mental health condition that impacts your ability to work.

  • Are aged 14 to 67 and an Australian resident.

  • Can work from a few hours up to 30 hours per week.

  • Are not studying full-time (unless you’re an eligible school leaver).

  • Are not already working at or above your assessed work capacity.

You do not need to be receiving income support to take part in IEA.

How do I access the service?

We are accepting IEA registrations of interest from:

  • Jobseekers looking to take control of their employment future.
  • Employers looking to build inclusive, values-aligned teams.
  • NDIS service providers seeking the right partner for their participants.

If you would like to be involved, register your interest today.

For more information, call us on (08) 7093 1801 or email info@sonderIEA.net.au

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Where you can access this service

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hear from our clients

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.