The Disability Royal Commission was established in April 2019 in response to community concern about widespread reports of violence against, and the neglect, abuse and exploitation of, people with disability. These incidents might have happened recently or a long time ago. The Disability Royal Commission will investigate:
- preventing and better protecting people with disability from experiencing violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation
- achieving best practice in reporting, investigating and responding to violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of people with disability
- promoting a more inclusive society that supports people with disability to be independent and live free from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The Disability Royal Commission will investigate and report on experiences and conditions in all settings and contexts, including:
- schools
- workplaces
- jails
- group homes or boarding houses
- family homes
- hospitals
- day programs
The Disability Royal Commission gathers information through research, public hearings, the personal experiences people tell us about and submissions, private sessions, and other forums.
The Morrison Government has announced it will extend the final reporting date for the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability to 29 September 2023. This provides an additional 17 months to account for the impact of COVID-19 and recognising the broad issues of inquiry under the Royal Commission’s terms of reference
In this report, the Royal Commission will recommend how to improve laws, policies, structures and practices to ensure a more inclusive and just society. For more information; https://disability.royalcommission.gov.au
NADO’s Position
NADO supports the Disability Royal Commission.
People with disability, like everyone else in our community, have the right to live free of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
NADO does not tolerate any behaviours or practices that represent the abuse, neglect or exploitation of people with disability.
How to share your experience with the Disability Royal Commission
Legal, Counselling and Advocacy Support
If you are currently experiencing any form of violence or abuse, or are concerned for your safety, call 000 or contact Police.
Legal Assistance:
The Disability Royal Commission Legal Service can provide advice, information and referrals to people interested in interacting with the Disability Royal Commission.
Free call 1800 771 800 between 9:15am and 5:15pm AEDT, Mon–Fri (excluding public holidays).
Information about legal financial assistance scheme is available on the Attorney-General’s website.
Advocacy and counselling services:
Advocacy, counselling and legal supports are being funded for those engaging with the Royal Commission.
The National Counselling and Referral Service can be contacted on 1800 421 468, 9am to 6pm AEDT Mon-Fri and 9am to 5pm AEDT Sat-Sun. Further information on support services is available on the DSS website.
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