A unique retail initiative is transforming how young Australians with disabilities prepare for the workforce, and South Australia is playing an increasingly central role. The Mini Woolies program, a collaboration between Woolworths, TAFE SA, and the South Australian Department for Education, has recently expanded with new sites in Adeliade City, Noarlunga, Flinders Park, and Solomontown —bringing an inclusive, hands-on learning experience to students across the state.
Housed within fully simulated supermarket environments, Mini Woolies locations are purpose-built to mirror real Woolworths stores. Shelves are stocked with products, checkouts are fitted with functioning registers, and students are provided uniforms. These thoughtfully designed spaces offer participants the opportunity to develop essential skills in a familiar, supportive, and structured environment.
The expansion in South Australia is part of a broader national rollout of the program, which now boasts over 95 sites across Australia and New Zealand. To date, more than 8,100 young people have already benefited from the initiative, which is tailored to help bridge the gap between education and meaningful employment.
‘Hiring young people with disabilities gives organisations more than just employees—it brings fresh ideas, loyalty, and creativity that can lead to success,’ says Minister for Human Services, Nat Cook.
‘People with disabilities can offer unique perspectives and help drive innovation in the workplace. It’s a win-win for everyone’
In South Australia, the program is closely aligned with the state’s Disability Transition Program. This aims to ensure students are not only provided with practical vocational skills, but also with the confidence, independence, and self-assurance needed to navigate life beyond the classroom. The new sites, including Adelaide City, Noarlunga, Flinders Park, and Solomontown, allow participants to practice literacy, numeracy, communication, and customer service in real-time retail scenarios—skills that are directly transferrable to the workforce.
Further enriching the learning experience, Woolworths team members actively support the program by mentoring students and guiding them through store operations. By providing these structured opportunities, Mini Woolies helps demystify the employment process and builds a tangible pathway to independence and empowerment.
For many Australians, their first job involved stacking shelves or working a register—experiences that lay the foundation for workspace readiness. The Mini Woolies program ensure those same opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of ability. This approach does not only prepare students for employment but also promotes a culture of inclusive hiring within the retail sector.
‘We hope these new spaces will provide a unique learning experience for young people with disabilities,’ says General Manager of Enterprise Operations and Mini Woolies at Woolworths, Sarah Corey.
‘We’re excited to see how it will help students build confidence and achieve their goals’.
South Australia’s involvement in the Mini Woolies expansion demonstrates a growing commitment to inclusive education and employment outcomes. As more sites open, the program is expected to play a vital role in reshaping how communities support those living with disabilities in achieving their personal and professional goals.
What might appear to be a standard supermarket to some becomes a powerful tool for transformation to others. Through each interaction and mastered skill, the Mini Woolies program is helping redefine what inclusive opportunity looks like in South Australia and beyond. For more information about the Mini Woolies program, visit https://www.woolworths.com.au/shop/discover/community/mini-woolies
At KompleteCare, we are proud to support initiatives that empower individuals with disabilities to develop practical skills, build confidence, and pursue meaningful employment. We are committed to helping our clients achieve their full potential and actively participate in their communities. Contact us today (08) 8265 5696 or visit our website to fill out an online enquiry form.
