Thorndale Industries, the commercial arm of Thorndale Foundation, is a leading provider of supported employment services for individuals with disabilities in Werrington, NSW. As an Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE), Thorndale Industries offers tailored job training, real-world work experience, and career development support for people with disabilities. The aim is to empower participants, helping them gain meaningful work and build the skills necessary for long-term career success.
A Legacy of Support: Thorndale Foundation's Journey
The history of Thorndale Foundation was started as early as in 1959, founded as a parent-based, not-for-profit organisation to support children with intellectual disabilities. Initially known as the Nepean branch of the Subnormal Children’s Welfare Association, it was named Thorndale in recognition of the work of Mrs Jean Thornley and Mr Jack Daly.
In 1963, Penrith Council donated land in Werrington, where Thorndale established its core operations. Over the years, Thorndale expanded its services, including residential support and community participation. In 2009, the foundation began focusing on adults with disabilities, leading to the current supported employment programs.
Today, Thorndale supports over 200 participants from its Werrington facilities and is recognised as a leader for providing meaningful opportunities and services for people with disabilities in Western Sydney.
The Importance of Supported Employment for People with Disabilities
Supported employment programs are vital in providing people with disabilities the opportunity to work in a supportive environment where they can develop skills, improve their employability, and lead independent lives. Thorndale Industries recognises that everyone, regardless of their disability, should have the chance to engage in fulfilling work. By offering a structured and supportive workspace, Thorndale ensures participants receive the support they need to thrive.
How Thorndale Supports Individuals Through Job Training and Career Development
Through Thorndale Industries, Thorndale Foundation offer a comprehensive supported employment program that includes:
Job Training: Participants undergo essential job training, learning crucial workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
Work Experience: Thorndale Industries provides valuable hands-on work experience, allowing participants to practice the skills they’ve acquired in real-world job settings.
Career Development: We offer career coaching, resume assistance, and job search support to help participants take the next step in their career journey.
Our goal is to ensure that every participant is given the tools they need to succeed in the workforce, whether through ongoing employment at Thorndale Industries or with an external employer.
Thorndale’s Work Options for Supported Employment
Thorndale offers a variety of supported employment opportunities across different sectors, allowing participants to find work that suits their skills and interests. These options include:
Packaging and Assembly: Participants help businesses of all sizes with tasks such as labelling, collating, shrink-wrapping, and packing. They gain experience working with small businesses and multinational corporations.
Lawn and Garden Maintenance: Those with a passion for outdoor work can join our lawn and garden maintenance team, where they learn how to mow lawns, prune hedges, rejuvenate gardens, and more.
These job options offer participants a chance to build skills, gain experience, and make a meaningful contribution to the community
Who Is Eligible for Supported Employment?
According to Department of Social Services, supported employment is designed for individuals with disability who need additional support to obtain or maintain paid work — especially those who face barriers to traditional open employment options.
following the NDIS guidelines about supports in employment, eligible supported employment participants typically meet the following criteria:
- Living with a disability, injury or health condition that significantly affects capacity to work
- Recognised as a participant under National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), or otherwise assessed as needing supported employment given their disability and support needs
- Needing “substantial ongoing support” to perform workplace duties — whether through on-the-job assistance, supervision, or tailored accommodation of tasks.
- Being able and willing to work in a supported setting: many ADEs, provide roles that suit different abilities so participants can find the right fit for their skills and needs.
- Ready to commit to the program’s structure: supported employment services are meant for ongoing, stable employment rather than short-term or casual work.
Because supported employment under NDIS is flexible, individuals can choose from varied workplaces, whether it’s supported employment services (ADEs), social enterprises, micro-businesses or even open labour-market jobs, while receiving funding and supports tailored to their needs.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, Thorndale will work with you (or your support coordinator) to review your NDIS plan and support needs ensuring that supported employment is a viable pathway for your goals.
Wages, Rights, and Workplace Protections
Participants working at Thorndale Industries are paid in accordance with the Supported Employment Services Award, ensuring they receive fair wages for their work. We follow all regulatory obligations regarding wage assessments, workplace rights, and safety standards. Thorndale maintains a respectful and safe working environment where participants are supported and empowered to succeed.
Success Stories From Our Participant
Thorndale’s Supported Employment program has made a meaningful impact on many individuals with disabilities, empowering them to lead independent, fulfilling lives. One such success story is that of Steven Graham, who has been a valued member of the Thorndale Industries team since 2003. Steven started as a production assistant, where he helped with packaging and assembly tasks. His role, including one of his favourite tasks of counting and making different-sized boxes, has allowed him to develop key job skills and work independently. Steven takes pride in traveling by bus to work every day, just like his brothers. The money he earns from his job gives him the independence to enjoy holidays with friends—something that was once a distant dream.
Then there’s Melissa, a young woman with Down Syndrome, who has worked with Thorndale since 2009. Recently, Melissa moved into supported accommodation in one of Thorndale's newest homes. While the transition was emotional, she now enjoys living independently with two other women, a milestone that’s been a long time coming. Melissa’s enthusiasm for her new life is contagious, she delights in cooking meals like spaghetti bolognese and hosting friends and family for tea. Melissa loves talking about her housework, keeping her home neat and tidy, and proudly sharing her accomplishments. Thorndale is incredibly proud to have supported Melissa in her journey towards independence, and seeing her happiness confirms the true impact of the work we do.
Stories like Steven’s and Melissa’s are at the heart of why we do what we do at Thorndale: to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to live, work, and thrive in their communities.
Why Choose Thorndale Industries for Supported Employment
Thorndale Industries offers more than just a job. It provides a pathway to a fulfilling and sustainable career for individuals with disabilities in Werrington, NSW. With tailored support, job training, and career development, we help participants gain meaningful employment, build skills, and achieve long-term career goals.
Get Started with Thorndale’s Supported Employment Services
Are you or someone you know looking for NDIS-funded supported employment services? Reach out to Thorndale Foundation today to learn how our supported employment program can help you achieve your career goals. Our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, from job training to employment support.
Conclusion
Thorndale Industries, the commercial arm of Thorndale Foundation, offers supported employment services for individuals with disabilities in Werrington, NSW. As part of the Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE) program, Thorndale provides tailored job training, real-world work experience, and career development to empower participants. With over 60 years of experience, Thorndale Foundation’s legacy continues to support people with disabilities in achieving meaningful work and independence.
Our supported employment options, such as packaging and assembly and lawn and garden maintenance, help participants gain valuable skills and contribute to businesses. Wages, rights, and workplace protections are a priority, ensuring fair pay and safe working conditions.
Success stories like Steven and Melissa highlight how our services empower individuals to thrive in their careers and personal lives. For those seeking NDIS-funded employment services, Thorndale Industries provides the tailored support needed to secure meaningful employment and a fulfilling, independent future.