When recovering from an injury, returning to work isn’t just about finding any job—it’s about finding something meaningful. That’s where a Vocational Assessment comes in. It’s a crucial step in identifying suitable employment options that align with your interests, experience, and medical recommendations.

What is a Vocational Assessment?

A Vocational Assessment is a standardised assessment carried out by a qualified Registered Psychologist or Rehabilitation Counsellor and aims to help you understand the types of roles that would best suit your skills, capabilities, and recovery journey.

The assessment is a personalised process that considers:

• Your employment history
• Your skills and qualifications
• Your interests and hobbies
• Any ongoing medical recommendations
• The current labour market and job demand

It’s a supportive process designed to explore real opportunities for re-entering the workforce in a safe and sustainable way.

The Assessment Process: What to Expect
1. Initial Contact

A STAR Consultant will be in touch to schedule your appointment. You’ll receive a confirmation letter with the time, date, and location of your session. We’ll also send a reminder via SMS closer to the appointment date.

2. Face-to-Face or Online Assessment

During the assessment, the consultant will ask questions about your work history, interests, lifestyle, and any physical or psychological limitations. In some cases, standardised tests or work interest testing may be used to better understand your aptitudes and preferences.

3. Labour Market Analysis

A key part of the assessment involves reviewing current job market data to ensure any work options discussed are not only suitable but also realistic and available.

4. Medical Verification

Any recommended roles will be cross-checked with your treating doctor or specialist to confirm they’re medically appropriate for your condition.

5. Reporting

The findings are compiled into a Vocational Assessment Report and shared with you, your insurer and STAR consultant. This document serves as a valuable tool in planning your next steps.

6. Work Trial Opportunities

In some cases, STAR may use the results of the assessment to help identify suitable work trial opportunities. These are tailored to your specific abilities and recovery goals.

The Benefits of Engaging in a Vocational Assessment

• Clarity and Direction

Many people find themselves unsure about what they can or should do next. This assessment helps provide clear, evidence-based guidance about suitable workplace options.

• Confidence Boost

Recognising how your current skills and interests can translate into meaningful job opportunities can boost your confidence, particularly after time away from work or when facing a potential career change.

• Tailored Support

The process is designed around you. It considers not only your physical capacity but also your aspirations and values, helping you feel more motivated about returning to work.

• Informed Decision-Making

With current labour market data and medical recommendations built into the process, the results offer a balanced and practical foundation to support you in moving forward.

Ready to explore your next steps?

If you’re recovering from an injury or navigating a return to work, a Vocational Assessment might be an ideal starting point. Talk to STAR today to find out how we can help identify work that works for you.