Mitch’s six-year journey from supported employment to open employment started with Multicap in 2017.

In this supportive and structured environment at Multicap’s social enterprise, Monte Lupo Cafe, Mitch developed work skills, built confidence, obtained a driver’s licence and even received Outstanding Supported Employee Award in 2023.

Having achieved so many goals with Multicap, Mitch announced in early 2024 it was time for the next adventure.

“I love working at Multicap and had the best group of coworkers that I could ever ask for, but it was time to challenge myself and move on,” said Mitch.

In May 2024, Mitch secured a new opportunity as Administration Assistant with Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) initially working one day per week with on-the-job support from Multicap Employment Services.

Within a few months, Mitch expanded his role to two days per week, with one day entirely independent of Multicap support.

With the right support and structure, Mitch said he was able to stay focused and enjoy his new workplace.

“During the early days of my employment with Toyota I faced some personal challenges, but I had incredible support from my new managers, as well as the team at Multicap,” he said.

By February 2025, Mitch received a formal offer from TMHA for a permanent part-time role at an award-rate salary.

Mitch was thrilled with the milestone and is now proudly working completely independently, without any employment support services.

“I’m loving my new job at Toyota,” said Mitch. “The team is really supportive, and the work environment helps me stay focused. I’ve learned so much already, and I feel proud of what I’ve achieved.”

Andrew Booth, General Manager Branch Operations Queensland at TMHA, said it didn’t take long to see that Mitch was a great fit.

“Mitch has been a fantastic addition to our team. He’s adapted well to the role and brings such positive energy to the workplace,” said Andrew.

“Not only has Mitch’s involvement with TMHA assisted him; it has also been beneficial to the TMHA staff to share the journey.”

“Hiring an employee with a disability has been a positive experience for us, and I’d absolutely encourage any other business to do the same,” Andrew said.

Mitch said he was grateful for the support and excited about what the future held for him in open employment.

“I want to thank everyone at Multicap, from the CEO right through to the employment team. I could not have done it without them.”

Mitch’s story is a shining example of how the right support and opportunities can empower individuals to reach their full potential.

Multicap empowers people with disability to achieve their goals through employment opportunities at social enterprises – Monte Lupo Cafes, Laundretto and Makeables .

For more information about employment opportunities and pathways, phone 1300 135 886 or visit multicap.org.au.