Empowering Inclusion: PGT and HPA Join Forces to Transform Recruitment in Darwin

In a powerful step toward inclusive and targeted employment, the Public Guardian and Trustee (PGT) in Darwin partnered with Helping People Achieve (HPA) to bring lived experience to the heart of recruitment.

This groundbreaking collaboration saw HPA Ambassadors Lara Irwin, Jocelyn Ryder and Raymond Walker, supported by HPAs Workforce Inclusion Networking Coordinator, Chiarah Koops—actively participate in the full recruitment process for two AO3 Administration Officer roles. From assessing applications against selection criteria to ranking candidates, designing reference checks, and interviewing candidates, the Ambassadors played a central role in shaping the outcome.

The result? A successful appointment of two talented individuals in a job-share arrangement—an outcome that reflects not just good hiring practice, but a commitment to equity, insight and community-led decision-making.

PGTs work in protecting vulnerable people, including those with disability or cognitive impairment, means they are uniquely positioned to understand the importance of frontline people who can respond to all people with empathy, respect and exceptional customer service. By involving people with lived experience in recruitment, PGT ensures that the voices of those they serve are not only heard but are instrumental in shaping the workforce.

This partnership is more than a recruitment success—it’s a model for inclusive practice, a celebration of capability and a reminder that when we design systems with everyone in mind, we build stronger, more responsive services for all.

Jocelyn - "The experience was amazing and fun. I learnt how to get to know candidates and interview them. It gave me the experience to get my confidence."

Raymond - "It was fun working with people and helping find jobs. I am proud to be a voice for disabled people and I would love to do it again."

Lara - "It went very well; it was fun to learn about new people and meeting them for the first time. I love being there with a full panel with Jodie and Lorraine from PGT - they were amazing people!"

Chiarah - "It has been a pleasure working with PGT throughout their recent recruitment process. The experience was well-structured, supportive, and positive from start to finish. It provided HPA Ambassadors with the opportunity to step into something new, build confidence, and feel truly empowered and valued. Collaborations like this are paving the way for greater workplace inclusivity, and we are honoured to have been part of it. This partnership demonstrated the real impact and importance of inclusive hiring in practice."