A powerful new partnership between UOW Pulse, The Disability Trust, and Project SEARCH is creating life-changing opportunities for young people in the Illawarra.
This week marked the official launch of Project SEARCH at UOW Pulse, offering young adults with disability the chance to build skills, confidence and career pathways in a supportive, real-world environment. The launch follows the successful rollout of the first internship program with Novotel Wollongong Northbeach earlier this year.
Held at the University of Wollongong campus, the launch event was a celebration of possibility and inclusion. The new Project SEARCH interns proudly made their intern pledges, met with UOW Pulse staff and mentors, and were introduced to the first of their three internship rotations across departments. These placements will provide hands-on experience in areas such as hospitality, events, retail, and facilities – helping build work readiness and independence.
“This program is about unlocking potential,” said a representative from The Disability Trust. “Our interns are not just gaining work experience – they’re gaining purpose, confidence, and a vision for their future.”
Project SEARCH is a global model that supports school leavers and young adults with intellectual disability through a full-year, immersive internship program based within inclusive workplaces. The model combines classroom instruction, career exploration and on-the-job training with the goal of meaningful employment.
The Disability Trust proudly leads the Project SEARCH delivery in the Illawarra region, working closely with host businesses to ensure a positive experience for both interns and employers. With the launch of the UOW Pulse partnership, the program continues to grow in reach and impact.
“UOW Pulse is proud to be part of something that helps build a more inclusive workforce and a stronger community,” a Pulse representative said. “We can’t wait to see our interns thrive.”
Watch the WIN News coverage below for highlights from the launch and meet some of the incredible young people involved.
Learn more about Project SEARCH and how The Disability Trust is helping young people find their path: https://disabilitytrust.org.au/services-support/employment-services/project-search/
