Our son Ryan, “Mr Champion”, had a difficult start to life with autism, his younger brother and sister and indeed the extended family and the wonderful education placements he has had have all helped him become a settled, confident and energetic young man. Following a very supportive College experience Ryan was encouraged to try working at an ADE, we met with Oak Tasmania and Ryan now works a very happy total of 3 days per week at their Walkabout Industries and Tahune Fields Nursery businesses. Oak provides a great working environment for people like Ryan who may not always need a close and constant supervision but there is an “ever present support” enabling them to perform meaningful work and gain a sense of achievement and fulfilment.
ADEs like Oak Tasmania allow a significant number of people to join the workforce and reach their full potential, this is good for the individual, good for families and good for Australia, so it is vital that these businesses are themselves supported and allowed to continue their important role in society.