John had worked at the a large manufacturing company in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne since leaving school at 15. John was a first generation Australian and felt she always struggled at school as English was a second language for him. In the late nineties he was made redundant at his factory job and was directed to TAFE studies by what was the CES (Commonwealth Employment Service).
John undertook a TAFE qualification in Community Services and was surprised to find that the adult learning environment suited him and that he enjoyed this learning experience.
After three years working as a disability support worker he was keen to take on more responsibility and decided to undertake Tertiary qualification in Disability. His Tafe qualification was recognized as the first year towards the three-year degree and by working weekend and late afternoon shifts he was able to complete his degree in less than three years.
John has since held numerous positions of responsibility across a range of community service organizations.