A fall at work changed everything, but not John’s drive to keep going

After a workplace injury left John unable to return to the job he knew, support through Inclusive Employment Australia with CVGT Employment helped him rebuild his confidence and find a new career.

At 31, John had built his life around physical, hands-on jobs, working as a roof tiler and gardener. But a fall on the job left him with ongoing injuries to his hand and shoulder, making it difficult to return to the kind of roles he knew.

“After my injury, I found it hard to return to work, mainly because of physical limits,” he said, facing the reality of needing to change direction while still wanting to stay employed.

Finding a way forward

Determined to find a way forward, John joined Inclusive Employment Australia with CVGT Employment, a program that helps people living with injury, illness or disability find work and build their careers.

While John’s options had narrowed, his focus had not.

“I was motivated to find work, open to all opportunities, and preferred hands-on roles,” he said. “I was interested in labouring, and this became my short-term goal.”

Rebuilding confidence

For CVGT Employer Engagement Specialist Jim, one of the biggest challenges early on was rebuilding John’s confidence.

“At the start, it wasn’t just about the injury,” he said. “It was about his belief in whether he could work again.”

Through regular one-on-one support, Jim focused on understanding what mattered most to John.

“Having open conversations helped us identify his strengths and what he wanted. You could see his enthusiasm when he came to job club,” he said, referring to group sessions where participants build skills, prepare for employment and meet employers.

“It was important to really listen and know what was right for him before putting him forward for roles.”

Building skills and momentum

Through job club, John quickly began to rebuild his confidence. He stayed engaged, asked questions and connected with employers.

Jim worked closely with him to find the right fit, focusing on workplaces that understood his injury and could support him on the job.

“I looked for an employer that understood how to work with someone with an injury and was able to move him around so as to not aggravate his shoulder,” Jim said.

He supported John at every step, from interview preparation to meeting him on site and sitting in on the interview.

A first opportunity and a setback

When John secured his first role, it was a major milestone.

Getting my first job was a big step. I gained practical experience working with timber and developed skills in measuring, cutting and working with the team. This helped build my confidence.
John
CVGT Employment, Inclusive Employment Australia participant

But on his first day, things took an unexpected turn.

“Unfortunately, towards the end of the day, liquidators walked in and told everyone to stop work. The place shut down,” Jim said.

The sudden loss of the role was difficult.

“I felt shocked, confused, and worried about my personal circumstances—however, I remained positive, and with the support of Jim and CVGT Employment Consultant Vinod, I was able to secure another opportunity,” John said.

Jim moved quickly to support him, checking in straight away and sharing positive feedback from the employer to keep his confidence up.

“He was a really good worker and a nice person,” Jim said, reinforcing that the setback was not a reflection of his ability.

A new opportunity

Using his local employer networks, Jim quickly moved to find another opportunity. He reached out to several businesses and soon connected with Mitre 10, who were open to meeting John.

“I contacted them and they were happy to meet with John. John was excited about it when I told him,” Jim said.

Jim believed the role would be a better fit, with less pressure and tasks that could suit John’s injury.

“When I saw the work and how the team operated, I could see it would work well for John and his shoulder,” he said.

Going into the interview, John felt a renewed sense of confidence.

“I felt so happy, positive moving forward and excited about the interview at Mitre 10, seeing it as a good fit.”

Looking ahead

Now settled into his role, John is focused on building his future.

Looking back, I’m most proud of what I have achieved and the skills I have learned. I’m also very proud of myself.
John
CVGT Employment, Inclusive Employment Australia participant

He’s already thinking about what comes next.

“I’m interested in gaining my forklift license and building a long- term career with Mitre 10.”

The difference support can make

For John, the journey has not been easy, but it shows what is possible with the right support.

“I’ve had a fantastic experience with CVGT Employment, thanks to the support from Jim and Vinod. I’m very happy after not having success with other agencies,” he said.

I feel listened to and understood by my consultant. They take the time to understand my situation, check in regularly, and provide support that suits my needs, which makes me feel comfortable and supported.
John
CVGT Employment, Inclusive Employment Australia participant

“CVGT Employment is welcoming, flexible to my needs, and easy to reach. I feel they are always available through all forms of communication.”

“The service is fair, supportive, friendly, and easy-going, with a strong team that is responsive to everyone’s needs.”