When Sean wrapped up Year 10 at ET Australia, he wasn’t sure what would come next. Without any work experience and unsure how to navigate Centrelink or job services, he felt anxious about stepping into the adult world as a young person with autism. His mum, who lives with severe anxiety, was also unsure what options were available. Connecting with Castle in 2023 helped things fall into place.
Susan, one of Castle’s Employment Case Officers, took the time to get to know Sean and his goals, helping him feel more at ease with a system that had felt overwhelming. She supported Sean and his mum through those first practical steps like getting a photo card, registering with Centrelink, and linking Sean to Castle’s Disability Employment Services.
Working together with Jasmyn, the Student Learning Support Coordinator at ET Australia, and a group of local providers including Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS), Platinum Psychology and Zeal Futures, Sean took his first steps into the world of work and independence. He started a work experience placement at Woolworths Gosford, organised by Jasmyn, and Castle was right there beside him, providing on-the-job support and meeting with store managers to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Sean also enrolled in a Cert II in Work Skills and a computer course with Zeal Futures, building his skills and confidence along the way. He was supported to get his Tax File Number and later, to use public transport.
When Sean and his mum moved to Wyong, Castle supported him to apply for a crew member job at McDonald’s. The Gosford and Lake Haven teams worked together to prepare Sean for the interview and stayed in touch throughout the process, including communicating with and supporting Sean’s employer to build a positive relationship. When Sean got the job, the team continued to check in regularly, helping Sean manage his shifts, workplace communication and admin.
By the end of 2024, Sean had gotten his Learner’s licence, and his uncle Michael is now helping prepare him for his Ps by giving him driving lessons. Sean is thriving at work and his managers say he’s a quick learner who’s shining in his role.
“Sean’s achievements are so impressive,” says Kylie, Castle’s Support Officer in Lake Haven who helps Sean manage his work. “He’s taken every opportunity with both hands, and I’ve watched him grow more independent and confident with every step.”
Sean has a bright future ahead of him.
“I’m really happy in my job and Castle has helped me heaps. I can’t wait to see what more I can achieve,” says Sean.
Sean is making great progress on his path to a career and independence. Castle continues to check in with him and his employer, as well as his wider support network, to make sure he’s got what he needs to keep achieving his goals.