SA Job Providers. Who’s actually helpful? + Getting off self-managed?
I’m in South Australia and trying to get my head around the Workforce Australia system.
I’ve been on payments a few months now and recently realised I’ve been sitting in a self managed online setup this whole time. I did call early on to ask what my obligations were and was told that nothing was required at the time (i wasnt assigned yet or something like that?), Ive tried to follow things up myself, but it feels like I’ve basically just been left to figure everything out with very little actual support. Ive also been on Jobseeker and should be on parenting payments so that may help.
I’m not here to tick boxes or sit on the job search merry go round. I’ve got goals and I want to actually move forward, not just stay compliant.
A few questions:
Is it normal to be left on self-managed online this long? I’m entering my 4th month and only now getting emails about agreeing to a job plan.
How do I move to a provider? Is there a way to push for that, or do I just wait until they assign me?
Are there any decent providers in SA that stand out as more helpful? Who’s actually helpful vs who just ticks the box. 3b) Are there any that I should avoid and why?
What support is actually available once you’re with a provider? (fuel vouchers, rego help, tools, etc.)
I’ll be honest, the system feels pretty unclear and a bit backwards if you actually want to improve your situation instead of just meeting requirements.
I haven’t had a proper chance to engage with a provider yet, so maybe that changes things. Any advice or real experiences would be appreciated.