Before my injury, I had a job lined up (my first full-time job) in the trade industry. That all changed when I had my accident. After my rehabilitation, I kept busy volunteering as a peer supporter and being a guest lecturer at a university. However, having a career was still an important goal of mine so I started looking at options for study.

I completed a call centre course through TAFE who were accommodating and supportive and then my employment case manager found a job opportunity for me in office administration.

I started the job and completed a certificate in administration while working. The staff all welcomed me into the office and management was flexible allowing modifications to the role and office set-up to allow me to work. They also allowed me to have my support workers onsite. Through grants obtained from Job Access, I was able to get a height-adjustable desk, headset and keyboard, a software program, and other equipment.

Over the years, my role has changed, and I’ve been able to complete various tasks such as display tours, organise office events and meetings and procuring equipment. I can order stationery, figure out what the office needs and purchase items for the kitchen, and another staff member just helps with finishing the job by unpacking and putting away boxes.

Through this journey, I was able to gain meaningful employment and to be seen as an equal in the office at the same time. When I answer the phone, the person on the other end is unaware that I have a disability.

After coming into the office and seeing me working, I received feedback that another person with a disability was inspired to find a job.

I have now been working at the same place for 23 years, the longest-serving staff member there!

Working part-time has meant I am still able to volunteer, lecture part-time at the university, and pursue other interests.

About the author

Lindsay, who was born and grew up in Brisbane, Australia, obtained a spinal cord injury several years ago which sees him getting around on four wheels instead of two legs. His injury hasn’t stopped him from making the most out of what he refers to as "my beautiful life". Lindsay's journey began on the last day of grade 12 at the age of 17 when he went for a celebratory swim at Southbank, Brisbane and broke his neck at vertebrae C5. Over the last 28 years, Lindsay has done public speaking at universities, conferences, fundraisers, and within healthcare settings. He also works part-time, travels, attends the gym and volunteers as a peer support mentor for the newly injured and their families. Lindsay is an advocate for disability awareness and his goal is to help people and their families who are in similar situations.