Transforming Lives Through Employment Opportunities
Breaking Barriers to Employment in Sydney
A record check doesn’t define a woman’s story. At Success Works, we focus on creating opportunities for women to look forward, not back. Through our programs and partnerships, we support women impacted by the justice system to access meaningful jobs and get fair chances in order to overcome employment barriers and build a brighter future.
How We Help
Mentoring Program
Our mentoring program connects participants with mentors who share practical advice and guidance. From preparing applications to interview tips, we make the process easier.
Job Readiness Workshops
Learn how to highlight your skills and experience to employers. Our workshops cover communication, interview preparation, and presenting your strengths with confidence.
Employer Engagement
We partner with trusted Sydney-based businesses to create job opportunities for women with a criminal record by foregrounding their value, not their past record.
Advocacy for Change
Success Works advocates for fair hiring practices, works to reduce discrimination, and creates better opportunities for women impacted by the justice system as well as their families.
Volunteer Opportunities
We welcome candidates of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of the justice system, to volunteer as mentors for our women. You will help them build confidence and find meaningful work.
Join Our Movement
Looking for Employment?
We’ve onboarded 264 women and successfully placed 115 into employment. Let us guide you on your path to success.
Seeking Skilled Candidates?
Employers, collaborate with us to fill roles with talented women. Together, we can build inclusive workplaces that focus on skills, not records.
Become a Partner
Share your experience and skills to support women impacted by the justice system. Mentor someone and be part of a life-changing journey.
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Every Woman Has a Story
Meet Tash, one of the many women who has turned a new leaf in life with the help of Success Works.
“After struggling to secure stable work due to my record, I found hope through Success Works. They helped me rebuild confidence and find a role where my skills were valued—not judged. Now, I can provide for my family and live with dignity.”
– Tash, Candidate
Our Vision for a Brighter Future
Access to meaningful employment is a human right. By breaking down barriers, we break the cycle of disadvantage, reduce recidivism, and help women with a criminal record reintegrate into society, building stronger families and communities as a result.
Why Choose Success Works?
Proven Impact
Over 264 women supported since 2022.
Expertise
A team with lived experience of the justice system.
Culturally Safe Approach
We embrace diversity and challenge discriminatory practices.
Trusted Partnerships
Join our growing network of justice-friendly employers.
FAQs
Yes. Having a record does not mean you are excluded from job opportunities. Many industries value skills, experience, and a willingness to move forward.
At Success Works, we connect women impacted by the criminal justice system to meaningful employment opportunities by working with employers who recognise potential over past records. Through mentoring, job readiness workshops, and employer partnerships, we help women build confidence and secure fair employment. Explore our Resources page for more details.
The types of jobs available depend on the industry and the nature of the role. Some sectors are more open to fair hiring practices and focus on your skills, not your past. These include:
- Trades & Construction: Labouring, painting, plumbing, and electrical work.
- Hospitality & Retail: Customer service in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and stores.
- Manufacturing & Warehousing: Jobs in packaging, assembly, logistics, and transport.
- Self-Employment: Freelancing, cleaning services, hairdressing, and online businesses.
We at Success Works help women identify roles that suit their skills and interests while connecting them with employers committed to fair hiring. Register with us today if you’re seeking employment.
We believe everyone deserves a fair go. Our approach ensures that women impacted by the justice system can access meaningful job opportunities that help them move forward. We provide:
- Mentoring: One-on-one guidance to build confidence and navigate employment challenges.
- Job Readiness Workshops: Covering resume writing, interview preparation, and workplace skills.
- Employer Partnerships: Connecting women with inclusive businesses looking for skilled candidates.
- Advocacy: Working to reduce employment barriers and change perceptions about hiring women with a criminal record.
Explore our Jobseekers page to understand how our program works.
Yes! Success Works collaborates with businesses across Sydney to provide fair hiring opportunities. We work with employers who:
- Recognise the value of diverse hiring.
- Focus on skills and experience over past records.
- Offer inclusive workplaces where women can thrive.
By partnering with us, businesses gain access to talented candidates while making a meaningful impact.
If you’re an employer interested in fair hiring, learn more at Success Works Employer Partnerships.
Absolutely! Mentorship is paramount when helping women regain confidence and build their careers. As a mentor, you can:
- Guide job seekers through resume building and interview preparation.
- Provide career advice and workplace insights.
- Offer encouragement and support as they re-enter the workforce.
If you’d like to make a difference, visit the Success Works Mentoring Program page to learn how you can get involved.
Yes! Success Works offers structured programs designed to support women with a criminal record in finding meaningful employment. Here’s how it works:
- Referral & Application: We assess program fit and ensure candidates receive tailored support based on their career goals.
- Candidate Job Ready Training: We provide onboarding, job training, and skill development to prepare women for the workforce.
- Candidate Career Pathways: We help job seekers identify the right career options, improve job search skills, and set achievable goals.
- Mentoring Program: Candidates are matched with experienced mentors who offer guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the job search process.
- Employment & Training Support: We offer pre-hire support and assistance during further training (such as VET/RTO programs) to help women transition smoothly into their roles.
- Post-Hire Support: Even after securing a job, we continue to provide ongoing support for both candidates and employers to ensure a successful, long-term placement.
Our programs aim to reduce employment barriers and create fair opportunities for women to re-enter the workforce with confidence.
Contact Us Today
Whether you’re a jobseeker, employer, referral partner, or aspiring mentor, we’re here for you. Let’s work together to create a world where women with a record are valued for their potential.