The State Government's housing arm, Homeswest, plans to boost job opportunities for Western Australians with disabilities.
Housing Minister Jim McGinty said a consultant had been engaged to identify positions with Homeswest's 1,000 strong workforce that could be filled by people with a disability.
Suitable applicants would be put forward from among more than 500 people on a register established by the agency.
"Western Australians with disabilities face real barriers to finding employment that allows them to realise their full potential," Mr McGinty said.
"Homeswest's initiative recognises that they may need help to compete for jobs but are capable of being committed and productive employees."
Mr McGinty said specialist employment agencies had already placed six workers with disabilities in a variety of clerical, maintenance and customer relations jobs within Homeswest.
The appointment of a full-time consultant would enable Homeswest to pursue its policy of an equal opportunity workplace more vigorously.
The consultant, Ms Elsie Eggleston from PE Personnel, would take up the position for a two-year period.
"Her duties will include providing ongoing support for successful applicants, evaluating their performance and assisting co-workers and managers with any adjustments," Mr McGinty said.
The project has been endorsed by the Public Service Commission.
Disability Services Minister Eric Ripper commended Homeswest on the initiative.
"The Government must lead the way in ensuring Western Australians with disabilities get the same employment opportunities as everyone else," Mr Ripper said.
