Employment Plus sparks new life into Ben’s job prospects
BY LERISSE SMITH
Ben, a highly skilled welder with over 40 years of experience, has triumphantly secured employment in Merrylands after facing years of unemployment and multiple challenges.
Since migrating to Australia eight years ago, Ben has struggled to find work because of his age, limited English proficiency, and the difficulty of navigating local recruitment processes, despite holding internationally recognised qualifications.
Employers often sought candidates with recent Australian experience, leaving him at a disadvantage. Financial hardship added to his burden, with very limited access to food and transport.
Support from Employment Plus Local transformed Ben’s prospects.
Employment Consultant Noora provided personalised, intensive assistance, including Korean language support through professional interpreters to ensure clear communication. Together, they developed an Australian-style resume that effectively showcased his welding skills and experience. Ben was also referred to immediate employment opportunities and received ongoing coaching and motivation.
The Salvation Army’s support services addressed his urgent needs with emergency food relief and community meals. Chaplain Jisook Wunderlich offered cultural guidance and connected him with Korean-speaking employers and networks, easing his adjustment and helping him complete online employment inductions despite language and technology barriers.
Volunteering with CASS Care Ltd gave Ben valuable local workplace experience and confidence, while Jesuit Refugee Service Food Bank ensured continued access to essential food during his job search.
On 20 June 2026, Ben began his new role as a welder, marking a new chapter in his life. Post-placement support from Employment Plus continues, helping him settle into his job and maintain progress.
Paul says this success story highlights how a comprehensive, culturally responsive approach, combining one-on-one employment support, emergency relief, community connections, and ongoing follow-up, can overcome layered barriers and enable mature-age skilled migrants to re-enter the workforce and regain financial stability.
READ MORE: When a job is more than income
