Every day across the ACT region, something extraordinary happens behind the kitchen pass. At Embrace Disability Group (EDG), meals aren’t just prepared—they’re created with purpose, pride and the unmistakable joy that comes from meaningful work.
With a team of approximately 90 staff — around 70 per cent of whom are people with disabilities —EDG is one of Canberra’s quiet powerhouses of inclusive employment. And as the community celebrates International Day of People with Disabilities, the organisation is taking a moment to spotlight the heart of its success: its people.
A social enterprise with serious flavour
EDG operates across the ACT and Queanbeyan region with a unique model that blends hospitality excellence with social impact. Their operations span school canteens, cafés, corporate catering, cooking schools and community events. If you’ve enjoyed a freshly made sausage roll at The Dugout, grabbed a coffee and a toastie, or tucked into a pizza from their wood-fired trailer—chances are you’ve already tasted their work.
Behind every product is a workplace where people with disabilities are given real opportunities to thrive. From kitchen assistants and baristas to delivery teams and event staff, EDG’s supported employees bring skill, creativity, and genuine passion to everything they do.
“Our differences are our differences,” says EDG’s Chief Operating Officer Matt Morrissey, reflecting the organisation’s belief that inclusion isn’t just a value — it’s a strategic advantage. “When you give people the right environment, the right support and the chance to shine, you get incredible results. And we see that every single day.”
Real jobs, real training, real impact
For many team members, EDG is more than a workplace — it’s a pathway. The organisation provides hands-on training and mentorship from experienced chefs and supervisors. As a result, staff grow in confidence, independence and skill while contributing meaningfully to Canberra’s food scene.
One of EDG’s biggest projects is the Meals in Schools pilot program, where employees prepare tens of thousands of nutritious meals for ACT school students each month. It’s high-volume work that requires precision, teamwork, quality control — and the EDG crew nails it.
But the impact isn’t measured in numbers alone. Parents talk about young adults finding purpose. Schools talk about students seeing people with disabilities represented and empowered. Employees talk about feeling valued, supported and excited to come to work. And customers talk about the professionalism, warmth and reliability that make EDG stand out.
Celebrating people, championing ability
International Day of People with Disabilities is a reminder that disability inclusion isn’t a box-ticking exercise — it’s a community responsibility. EDG proves what’s possible when organisations move beyond awareness and into action.
“We don’t lead with disability; we lead with capability,” says Matt.
“Our team members bring so much to the table — talent, resilience, humour, creativity. Our job as leaders is simply to create the space where they can succeed.”
That philosophy forms the backbone of EDG’s culture. It’s why employees stay, grow and proudly represent the EDG name at events across the region. And it’s why customers choose EDG not just for their food, but for the impact their choice makes.
Why your next event should be an EDG event
Catering isn’t just about feeding people — it’s about creating an experience. EDG delivers everything from corporate catering and school canteens, to weddings, sports carnivals, training days, birthdays and community celebrations.
And while the menus are delicious (trust us—they are), what sets EDG apart is the knowledge that every order directly supports local employment for people with disabilities. It’s hospitality with heart and service with soul.
So, the next time you need catering, consider choosing a team that’s serving up both great food and a better future.
Because with Embrace Disability Group, every bite makes a difference.
