The competition was strong but a Toowoomba business with 50 employees, many with disabilities has won the National Employment Services Association Awards for Excellence as Champion Employer of the Year.

Angie Brown, Angie’s Domestic Duties owner took out the award for her commitment to employing people with disability, as well as those from disadvantaged backgrounds who struggle to find work.

Speaking after receiving the award at the event in Canberra she said, “we do this from a business perspective, but most importantly because it helps others, and we will be able to help many more people.” And the exposure the business has received since the event will allow her to do just that.

Angie was nominated by Toowoomba based HELP Employment and Training, sponsors of the ‘Business Disability Awards of Australia,’ an event that recognises and rewards business with an inclusive workplace.

Paul Wilson, from HELP and co-founder of the awards told F2L since its launch in 2012 with a breakfast for 60 people it has grown into a gala dinner event for more than 300. It has expanded from Toowoomba to award events now being held in Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.

The next will be held on September 9, 2021, at The Goods Shed, Toowoomba.

Awards categories include:

  • Social Inclusion
  • Outstanding Employer
  • Outstanding Employee
  • Outstanding Volunteer
  • Innovation & Access
  • Business Engagement
  • Indigenous Champion
  • Elisa Flanagan ‘Aim High’ Scholarship
  • Judy Antonio Memorial Award

Applications open in July. Go to: www.tbda.net.au for details.

Caption. From left Paul Stanton, Greg Luck (HELP Employment & Training) Angela Brown and son Dylan, Ashlea McNellee, office manager.