Sydney Employment Development Service
Garry Murray
My name is Garry Murray. I was diagnosed at an early age with Cerebral Palsy (Spastic Diplegia). When I was younger I was able to walk but my balance was not good. I eventually had to use crutches and then at later stage to present, an electric wheelchair.
I joined SEDS Open Employment Program in February 2006. SEDS immediately sent me to the Corporate Partners for Change (CPC) Business Admin course, a program of the Premier’s Department. The CPC program provides learning through TAFE and work placement in an actual workplace setting. I learnt office skills and had a work placement at the Premier’s Department in the city. The program finished in June 2006.
In August that same year SEDS arranged a volunteer work for me at Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association of New South Wales (MDAA). I went there 2 days per week helping the admin team. During the year-end Annual General Membership (AGM) meeting MDAA acknowledged my volunteer work with a Certificate of Appreciation.
In early 2007 SEDS negotiated for a paid employment with MDAA on Special Wage Permit. I was offered 2 days per week. With the Workplace Modification Scheme funding SEDS facilitated for the supply of an adjustable desk, a wheelchair tray, a trackball mouse, a telephone headset, a numeric keyboard, and a pointer. At MDAA my main tasks are phone reception and data entry. MDAA is looking at expanding my tasks to give more variety.
I enjoy going to MDAA because I feel welcome there and the people are really nice. SEDS continues to support me and my employer.
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