What is Individual Placement and Support (IPS)?


There’s a powerful tool in mental health recovery which is often overlooked – meaningful employment.

The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model proves that work isn’t just a paycheck. Meaningful, paid work can be a catalyst for healing, dignity, security and social connection.


🔍 Defining IPS

IPS is an evidence-based program of supported employment.

It’s based on the idea that with the right support, anyone can gain and retain meaningful, paid work, regardless of their mental health challenge.

That’s because everyone, regardless of diagnosis or background, deserves the opportunity to work in a role that aligns with their interests and strengths, and which pays them a fair and competitive wage for their contribution.

Unlike traditional supported employment programs, IPS integrates employment support directly into mental health services. That means employment specialists work side-by-side with mental health teams to support individuals holistically.


🌱 Why Work Matters in Mental Health Recovery

For many, work is a source of identity, routine, and social connection. Research shows that employment can lead to:

  • Increased self-esteem and life satisfaction.
  • Financial security and housing stability.
  • Reduced mental health symptoms.
  • Lower chances of needing hospitalisation or acute care for mental health challenges.


🧭 How IPS Works

IPS is guided by eight core principles, each designed to empower individuals and remove barriers to employment.

  • Zero exclusion: Anyone who wants to work is eligible.
  • Integration with mental health services: Employment support is embedded in a person’s recovery plan.
  • Rapid job searches: No lengthy pre-employment training. Job searches begin within 30 days of a person starting the program.
  • Client preferences: Job searches are tailored to a person’s interests and career goals.
  • Time-unlimited support: Ongoing employment support is available for as long as needed.
  • Systematic job development: IPS specialists build relationships with employers to uncover suitable opportunities.
  • Work incentives planning: Clients receive clear guidance on how employment could affect their entitlements.
  • Competitive employment: Jobs are in the open market and are compensated fairly.


🌏 IPS in Australia: A Global Standard

Australia’s IPS programs have recently gained international recognition, with the country now part of the IPS International Learning Community – a network of IPS leaders, researchers, and practitioners.

Locally, IPS is delivered through two models:

  • Fully integrated programs: IPS specialists are embedded within mental health teams.
  • Partnerships: Mental health services collaborate with Disability Employment Services to deliver IPS.

Both models aim to close the gap between the 60% of people with serious mental health challenges who want to work, and the small percentage who currently have access to IPS.


🔧 Building a Future of Inclusion

More than 40 randomised controlled trials have shown that IPS consistently outperforms other employment models, with significantly higher job placement rates and longer job retention.

And the best part? The IPS model isn’t just effective for people with mental health challenges. It’s been shown that many other groups can benefit from IPS, like youth, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and those recovering from substance use or physical injuries.

The message is clear: employment is a universal right, and IPS is the bridge that makes it possible.

If your organisation supports people with mental health challenges, find out how our IPS Works team can support you to deliver an IPS program through training, consultation and fidelity reviews.