Project SEARCH Archives - Buderim Today

Local Lad Lands Dream Job at Buderim Hospital Through Project SEARCH

A young lad has turned his work experience placement into full-time employment at Buderim Private Hospital, showcasing the success of an innovative disability support program Project SEARCH.

Dion recently completed an internship through Project SEARCH, a workplace-based program that helps young people with disabilities develop practical skills and transition into competitive employment. His efforts during the placement impressed staff so much that he was offered a permanent role in the hospital’s kitchen and patient services department.

**Dion delivering morning tea to patients**
Photo Credit: Supplied

The achievement represents a significant personal milestone for Dion and demonstrates the effectiveness of programs designed to bridge the gap between education and employment for people with disabilities.

**Shelly (Food Services co-worker) and Dion**
Photo Credit: Supplied

Project SEARCH operates as a partnership between disability service providers and host employers, offering young adults aged 17-28 with NDIS funding the opportunity to complete three 11-week internships over a 12-month period. The program runs five days a week for six hours daily, allowing participants to gain real workplace experience whilst receiving ongoing coaching and support.

Project SEARCH is described as “an exciting opportunity for young adults aged between 17-30 with NDIS funding looking for a pathway to open employment”, according to disability service providers operating similar programs across Australia.

The program’s structure allows interns to work across different departments within their host organisation, providing them with diverse skills and experience that enhance their employability. At Buderim Private Hospital, this model gives participants exposure to various aspects of healthcare support services.

To be eligible for the program, participants must have completed Year 12, possess independent personal care skills, and demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in workplace settings. They also need reliable transport and must pass criminal history and drug screening checks.

The program is currently seeking new participants for its October intake. Young people with disabilities who meet the eligibility criteria can apply through UnitingCare Queensland, which coordinates the Sunshine Coast program.

Dion’s successful transition from intern to employee highlights the program’s core objective of helping participants move into competitive employment. His story serves as an encouragement to other young people with disabilities who may be considering their career options.

**Dion working in Patient Services Department, cleaning patient rooms**
Photo Credit: Supplied

The success also reflects well on Buderim Private Hospital’s commitment to inclusive employment practices and recognition of the value that people with disabilities bring to the workplace.

For families and young people interested in learning more about Project SEARCH opportunities at Buderim Private Hospital, information is available through UnitingCare Queensland’s website or by contacting their Project SEARCH team directly.

Published 22-September-2025

Buderim Private Hospital Celebrates Inclusive Employment Success Through Project SEARCH Program

Buderim Private Hospital is demonstrating the tangible benefits of inclusive employment practices through the success of Nathan, a local participant in the Project SEARCH program who is currently completing his second internship rotation in the hospital’s Supply Department.

The 12-month immersive work-based internship program, designed specifically for young people with disabilities, has proven transformative for Nathan, who previously completed his first rotation in the hospital’s Central Sterilisation Department. His journey exemplifies how structured workplace programs can create meaningful pathways to independence for individuals with disabilities.

Nathan’s integration into the hospital’s operations has been marked by his positive attitude and eagerness to learn, qualities that have resonated strongly with supervisors and colleagues throughout his rotations. His presence has not only contributed to departmental operations but has also reinforced the hospital’s commitment to creating an inclusive workplace environment.

“Having Nathan as part of our team not only benefits our department but also reflects our core values of support and inclusion,” said Buderim Private Hospital’s Supply Coordinator. “We’re proud to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

The Project SEARCH program operates on a comprehensive model where participants complete three 11-week internships over 12 months, attending the workplace five days a week for six hours daily. This immersive approach allows interns to gain diverse, marketable job skills while receiving ongoing coaching, feedback, and support at every stage of their development.

Nathan’s success story arrives as Project SEARCH opens enrolments for its next cohort, seeking young adults aged 17–28 years with NDIS funding. The program currently operates across multiple healthcare facilities including The Wesley Hospital, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, UnitingCare Head Office, and Buderim Private Hospital.

For Buderim residents, Nathan’s achievement represents more than individual success – it reflects the community’s broader commitment to ensuring every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the workforce. His journey from Central Sterilisation to Supply Department demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in building both practical skills and workplace confidence.

The hospital’s embrace of the Project SEARCH program aligns with growing recognition across the healthcare sector of the value that diverse workforces bring to patient care and operational excellence. As healthcare facilities increasingly prioritise inclusive practices, programs like Project SEARCH provide a proven framework for creating opportunities that benefit both participants and employers.

Applications for the next Project SEARCH cohort are being accepted through the program’s website at myuniting.care/projectsearch, offering other young people with disabilities the chance to follow in Nathan’s footsteps toward greater independence and professional fulfilment.

Published 23-May-2025