Opening Doors to Inclusive Employment Forum

Next date: Thursday, 05 November 2026 | 09:15 AM to 12:30 PM

Join industry experts, colleagues, and like-minded individuals to discuss the challenges, innovations, and best practices in inclusive employment. 

In preparation for International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), this in-person event will examine how having a mentally healthy and inclusive workplace can reduce costs. We also welcome job seekers to attend to speak to a range of exhibitors. 

This event offers an excellent chance to connect, network, and share experiences with key industry stakeholders on a topic that consistently sparks strong community interest. 

IDPwD is an internationally observed United Nations (UN) day on 3 December, aimed at raising awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with disability. 

Following the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panel and visit exhibitors at the mini expo. 

Event details

• Date: Thursday 5 November
• Time: Doors open 9.15am to 12.30pm
  • 9.15am - Doors open for exhibition
  • 10am - Presentations and Q&A (approximately 1.5 hours)

  • 12.30pm - Exhibition concludes

• Venue: Karralyka, 22A Mines Road, Ringwood East 3134
• Cost: Free
• Age: 16+
• Registrations are essential

Register online

Event speakers

Shannon Lang Director, WISE IDEA: Centre of Best Practice in Mental Health and Employment

With over 20 years’ experience in mental health leadership—including a special connection to the Maroondah region—Shannon is passionate about sustainable employment and quality of life for people living with mental health conditions. As an Occupational Therapist and mental health leader, Shannon will share practical strategies for employers to support employees with mental health conditions, tips on accessing mental health and inclusive employment resources, and the benefits of inclusive employment for individuals and organisations alike. Her deep insight will help you build supportive, collaborative workplaces.

Mel Spencer OAM, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Different Journeys

Different Journeys oversee CARE@WORK, an evidenced-based social enterprise which supports companies and organisations recruit and retain valuable staff who have unpaid additional caring responsibilities outside of work. Mel holds qualifications in disability and small business management and has participated in the prestigious Victorian Government Women’s Boards Leadership Program, which connected her to the Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

Under Mel’s leadership, Different Journeys has evolved into a transformative organisation that creates supportive, neuroaffirming environments where the broader autistic community can connect, grow and thrive. This Victorian-based organisation has supported over 10,000 autistic people, their families, and carers through safe, empowering and inclusive peer-led events.

Come and meet the Swinburne Skills and Jobs Centre team!

Qualified Career Practitioners will be available for free 15-minute career chats. Whether you're exploring work, study, or a career change, they can help you navigate your options and plan your next steps. 

Free. Friendly. Confidential. For more information about Swinburne Skills and Jobs Centre click here

Exhibitiors

This event is presented by Maroondah City Council in partnership with Latrobe Community Health Service.

 

Further information

For more information about the event please contact Jack Mulholland on 9294 5750 or email jack.mulholland@maroondah.vic.gov.au.

When

Location

Karralyka, Mines Road, Ringwood East, 3134, View map