Mrs PHILLIPS (Gilmore) (13:47): People with disability often face barriers to finding and keeping employment, so I was thrilled to see participants getting hands-on, real-life work experience when I visited Interchange Shoalhaven's new community hub.

Interchange Shoalhaven in Nowra have received a $494,000 funding boost from the Albanese Labor government's Department of Social Services Structural Adjustment Fund so they can provide sustainable training and employment opportunities for people with a disability.

Their new Skills Boost program offers training, mentoring and job placement support, as well as vocational education and training qualification opportunities. This is such a wonderful project, and I was delighted to pop into the hub and share a coffee with the participants.

Australians with disability can and want to work. They bring talent, curiosity and fresh perspectives to our workplaces, which is why it is so important to break down those barriers and create real opportunities.

When we provide the right support, everyone in the community benefits.

I support the creation of a more inclusive society where people with disability have the chance to fully participate and thrive in all aspects of community life, including employment.

Interchange Shoalhaven's Skills Boost program commenced on 7 July and will provide participants with an opportunity to put their skills to good use as trainees in local cafes and restaurants. It's so great to see and I am thrilled to see it working.