Empowered Employment Programs

Multicultural Disability Employment Program (MDEP)

MDEP is a leading initiative by MARSS Australia Inc. in partnership with Nexus Human Services, designed to open doors to meaningful, sustainable employment for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds living with disability or other life challenges.

Through a person‑centred, rights‑based approach, MDEP empowers individuals to shape their own career paths, receive culturally safe support, and thrive in workplaces that value their skills and contributions.

Who We Support

MDEP is open to CALD individuals who:
Live with a health condition, mental health challenge, or disability that makes it harder to find or keep work (for example: anxiety, depression, PTSD, physical or cognitive barriers)
Are from migrant or refugee backgrounds
Are seeking support to prepare for, gain, or retain employment
Are legally able to work in Australia

What We Offer

Our team works side‑by‑side with participants to remove barriers and build confidence, offering:
One‑on‑one employment coaching tailored to your goals
Help with resumes, interview preparation, and job applications
Assistance with workplace adjustments and navigating disability supports
Referrals to training, upskilling, and community services
Ongoing support and check‑ins to help you stay on track

Our Commitment

MDEP is built on the belief that:
People with disability deserve genuine choice and control over their employment pathways
There should be a diverse range of inclusive workplaces
Equal pay and fair conditions are a right, not a privilege
With the right support, careers can grow, skills can expand, and communities can flourish

How to Get Involved

You can join MDEP by reaching out directly or through your MARSS caseworker.
All services are free of charge for eligible participants.

Hear From Our Community

“I worked hard for my career overseas, but starting again here felt impossible. MDEP helped me rebuild, and now I feel respected for the skills I bring.” — Program Participants

“From the very first day, Domenic welcomed us with warmth and professionalism, giving us hope during a challenging time. Niroj’s clear guidance helped us take our first steps toward employment. The MARSS team’s support has made a meaningful difference as we navigate a new country.” — Program Participants

“I’m deeply grateful to Domenic and Niroj for their support and dedication. Their commitment made a real difference in my journey — and thanks to them, I’ve now found employment.”
— Program Participant

“With the help of MARSS and Nexus, my wife and I found suitable jobs in a short period of time. The practical tips on resumes, interviews and understanding the Australian work environment were extremely valuable for us as new arrivals.”
— Program Participant

“From our first meeting, I felt supported, encouraged and genuinely cared for. The regular follow-ups and practical guidance added real value to my job search and helped me keep going through a difficult process.”
— Program Participant

“Starting again in a new country felt overwhelming, especially while trying to find work. Through MDEP, we felt genuinely supported and encouraged. The guidance, patience and motivation we received helped reduce our stress and gave us hope during a very difficult time.”
— Program Participant

“It meant a lot to have support that was not only practical, but genuinely caring. Knowing someone was willing to listen and check in helped me feel supported while I navigated both health and employment challenges.”
— Program Participant

“MDEP gave me confidence in the job market by helping me strengthen my CV and take real steps toward employment. I felt supported by a professional team, and the encouragement I received gave me peace, hope and confidence.”
— Program Participant

“Being a new migrant can be extremely stressful, especially when you are trying hard and still cannot find work. With support and guidance from MARSS and Nexus, my stress reduced and I felt renewed hope moving into the new year.”
— Program Participant

“I’m grateful for the support I received this year, especially the employment assistance and referrals that helped me connect with opportunities. MARSS has supported me over time, and that long-term care has made a real difference.”
— Program Participant

“As a single mother with three children, I went through a very difficult period with employment, housing and financial hardship. The support I received helped my family feel less alone and gave me hope as I worked toward stable employment.”
— Program Participant

“The support I received from MARSS and Nexus was humble, dedicated and genuinely encouraging. I appreciated being referred for further support, and the ongoing help with my resume and job searching made me feel happy and supported.”
— Program Participant

“The care and kindness my family received made us feel genuinely welcomed in Canberra. Support with community connection, children’s activities and practical employment guidance helped us feel included and confident during a new beginning.”
— Program Participant

Contact MARSS:
domenic.torcasio@marss.org.au
(02) 6248 8577

Contact Nexus Human Services:
niroj@nexushumanservices.com.au
1800 163 987
nexushumanservices.com.au

Work With Us
Are you an employer, community organisation, or stakeholder interested in creating inclusive employment pathways?

MDEP actively partners with employers and community leaders to build opportunities and break down barriers.

Get in touch today to collaborate with us.