Employment has always been about more than finding a job for Andre Maddocks.
As Regional Manager, Employment Services at Flourish Australia, Andre has seen firsthand the difference meaningful work can make in a person's life. Beyond financial independence, employment can provide purpose, confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.
"One of the key pillars of recovery is employment," Andre explains. "The satisfaction that people gain from work can be pivotal in their recovery journey."
This belief sits at the heart of Flourish Australia's Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) program, which launched in November 2025. The new partnership reflects a different approach to employment support—one that recognises the importance of lived experience and places people at the centre of their employment journey.
For Andre, one of the most exciting developments has been embedding peer workers into the job-seeking support process.
"When people come to us for support, they can be sure that we get it," he says. "Our approach is driven by lived experience."
The impact of this approach was evident from the beginning. Within the first few months, Flourish Australia achieved more than 100 work placements—an outcome that previously may have taken a year under the former employment model.
But for Andre, success is measured by more than numbers.
He is passionate about creating genuine pathways into open employment and ensuring people have access to the support they need to pursue their goals.
That commitment can be seen across Flourish Australia's employment services, including Community Businesses such as Buckingham House in Surry Hills. Through initiatives like the Hospitality Training Program, supported employees are developing practical skills, gaining qualifications and building confidence for future employment opportunities.
Andre sees programs like these as an important bridge between recovery and open employment.
"We want to see people enjoy full social citizenship and take up their place in the open workforce wherever possible," he says.
Looking ahead, Andre is excited about the opportunities Inclusive Employment Australia can create for people across the country. Whether it's helping someone secure their first job, return to work after time away, or build confidence through training and work experience, the goal remains the same.
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