MS Plus to deliver specialist employment services under new disability program

More people with neurological conditions will gain greater access to tailored employment support through MS Plus, as part of a major shift in the nation’s disability employment landscape.

The Australian Government today announced MS Plus, a proud member of the CoAct Network, as a key provider of Inclusive Employment Australia – a new program replacing the existing Disability Employment Services (DES) from 1 November 2025.

The reform marks a significant shift toward more personalised, community-based services that prioritise choice, control and real-world results for jobseekers with disability, injury or health conditions.

MS Plus CEO John Blewonski welcomed the announcement calling it a “strong endorsement” of the organisation’s deep expertise in neurological conditions and complex care.

“We are proud to continue, and expand, our specialist services under this new model,” Mr Blewonski said.

“By working with CoAct and our clinical teams, we ensure people with MS, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy, MND, muscular dystrophy and other neurological conditions can achieve their goals, stay connected to community and live life on their terms.”

MS Plus has provided employment support to people with complex health conditions for over two decades, helping thousands to find, retain, or transition through work with the right supports in place.

As Australia’s leading network of not-for-profit community service providers, CoAct was awarded delivery of the Inclusive Employment Australia contract nationally, ensuring consistent, community-driven employment support across Australia with CoAct’s broad national reach.

Simon Brown, CoAct CEO, said CoAct’s partnership approach delivers a co-designed, person-centred model that offers flexible and intensive support, specialised staff, and smart technology to improve both jobseeker and employer experiences.

“Our co-designed model brings together deep local knowledge, specialist expertise, and lived experience to deliver high-quality services tailored to the diverse needs of jobseekers and employers across Australia,” Mr Brown said.

A key feature of the new Inclusive Employment Australia program is its commitment to engaging a broader and more diverse range of specialist providers, who bring deep expertise in supporting people with specific disability types and health conditions. This approach recognises that no two jobseekers are the same – and that sustainable employment outcomes are best achieved when services are personalised, inclusive, and built around the lived experiences of participants.

Case Study: From diagnosis to new directions

Brad Kendrick was diagnosed with MS in 2020, and soon discovered his symptoms meant he was unable to continue in his high-pressure role in international trade.

In need of advice and support, he reached out to MS Plus’ Employment Support Service. They not only found him a new role, but connected Brad with an Occupational Therapist, to help minimise the impact of his symptoms on his work.

“Having that weekly OT support, and to have MS Plus’ ongoing guidance and encouragement — it has meant the world to me,” Brad says.

“Without the MS Plus Employment Support Service, I wouldn’t be working today. This way I can continue to build the life that I want for myself, remain independent and help others.”

Together with CoAct, MS Plus looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering people with disability to achieve their employment goals, while working closely with local employers to build more inclusive, diverse, and resilient workplaces across the NSW, ACT, Tasmanian and Victorian communities.

To learn more about Inclusive Employment Australia and connect with your local CoAct disability employment services provider, visit www.coact.org.auopens in new tab.