Have Your Say In The Disability Royal Commission
People with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to negative behaviour like bullying or unfair treatment, and in many cases they are unable to speak up for themselves. This is why the Disability Royal Commission was established in April 2019 in response to widespread concern about reports of violence, neglect, abuse and exploitation of people with disability.
The members of the commission will deliver a final report to the Australian Government by September 2023, in which they will recommend how to improve laws, policies, structures and practices to ensure a more inclusive and just society. So there is still time for you to share your stories, experiences and concerns. Your voice counts! Keep reading to find out more about the commission and how you can play a role.
- What is the royal commission?
The Disability Royal Commission is dedicated to independently investigating matters of abuse, violence or neglect of disabled Australians. It’s important to note that the Royal Commission cannot bring perpetrators to account, but it can shed light on certain issues and notify authorities of changes that need to be made or if legal action needs to be taken. It can hold public hearings, call witnesses under oath and compel evidence when necessary. The Royal Commission aims to make recommendations to government about policy changes by the year 2023.
- What has been achieved so far?
As of June 2021, 2500 submissions had been received by the Royal Disability Commission. This is a huge achievement, because it means that people are noticing and reporting cases of bullying, scams, neglect, or unjust treatment against people with disability. Families or caregivers of these victims are speaking out and this can lead to positive change. For example, the commission has looked into the death of Anne-Marie Smith who had cerebral palsy and died in April 2020. She died from septic shock, multiple organ failure, severe pressure sores and malnutrition. By publishing her story, the commission hopes to highlight how disability service providers can prevent this from happening to others.
In another case, the Royal Commission investigated the use of psychotropic medication in people with cognitive disability, and found that it is being over-prescribed and can actually have negative consequences. Read the summary of the report here. These findings will protect others from misuse of such medication. It may even save lives, and hopefully lead to more careful prescription in future.
- How can you get involved?
You can share your personal experiences with the Disability Royal Commission by sending a submission in writing, by telephone, email, or as a video or audio recording. Participants are encouraged to tell their story in their first language as interpreters and translators will be provided. Read more on how to make your submission here.
Remember that these stories will be used to make recommendations to government, and could influence policies that will protect the disabled community. So don’t be afraid to speak up for your rights and the rights of all vulnerable people in our society. You can also stay up to date with the latest public hearings, media releases and information from the Disability Royal Commission by visiting https://disability.royalcommission.gov.au/.
- Committed to safety and wellbeing
At D&AC Services, we support the Disability Royal Commission and are committed to the safe delivery of NDIS services to all participants. D&AC Services welcomes feedback and your input is always valued so that we deliver the highest quality services in a transparent manner at all times.
Get in touch with our friendly team today at 1800 362 278 and let’s work together to achieve your goals.
[REFERENCES]
https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/news-media/disability-royal-commission