understanding of the need to support both employees looking for jobs, and employers focused on
improving workplace culture and practice has directly shaped the two-pronged approach to the web
portal. The website will be launched in September 2021.
•
The Pilot programs – the next phase of the project will see the Commission work with the Employer
Network, and other experts, to co-design two pilot employment programs to support the meaningful
employment of people with disability. The Commissioner is currently engaged in conversations with
organisations who have both operational capacity and specialist knowledge in disability employment
to support the pilots.
The goals of IncludeAbility are timelier than ever with the economic impacts of COVID-19 further reducing
employment opportunities for people with disability.
IncludeAbility is creating a safe space for employers to discuss ideas and share learnings, and is on track
to improve the opportunities available to people with disability.
Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of at-risk children and young people
In this reporting period, the Commission and the Kids Helpline co-authored the report Impact of COVID-19
on Children and Young People who Contact Kids Helpline. This report was launched in September 2020 and
received very positive feedback.
As we continue to face the impacts of COVID-19 in our lives, the newly appointed National Children’s
Commissioner has commenced work in collaboration with the National Mental Health Commission to
consult with at-risk children and young people about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on them. This
includes their mental health, and related support and interventions required to support them, their
families and communities, the main and unique challenges and barriers experienced by at-risk children
and young people during the pandemic, and actions that can be taken to address the priority action areas
of the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan, and other priority issues identified
by the group.
A final report will be provided to the National Mental Health Commission by June 2022.
Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces
In March 2021, the Commission was asked to undertake an Independent Review of Commonwealth
Parliamentary Workplaces (Review) by the federal Government, with the support of the Opposition and
crossbench. Led by Commissioner Jenkins, the Review is examining the culture of Commonwealth
parliamentary workplaces with the aim of ensuring that the national Parliament reflects best practice in
the prevention of and response to bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.
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Australian Human Rights Commission
Annual Report 2020–2021