By Jed Lanyon
Lilydale-based Melba Support Services has thrown its support behind a Royal Commission into the epidemic of violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect against people with disability.
Federal Parliament passed the long-awaited motion in support of the Royal Commission on Monday 18 February.
Melba CEO Glenn Foard condemned the neglect and abuse of people with disability.
“We must have zero tolerance for abuse and other violations of individuals’ rights,” he said.
“The commission will, I hope, provide a comprehensive and independent review into systemic issues of abuse.
“It will give a voice to many people with a disability, and a much-needed platform for these survivors to share their heartbreaking stories.
“To do its work well, the Commission must be appropriately-resourced and ensure that people with disability are supported to participate and tell their stories.”
Despite the motion of a Royal Commission passing, People with Disability Australia CEO Therese Sands still had questions regarding its implementation.
“We are concerned that there was not a definite announcement or time frame to establish a Royal Commission, nor a commitment to look at the breadth of issues we have raised with the Federal Government over many years,” she said.
“We have fought for a standalone Royal Commission on this issue for decades and we are ready to work with the Federal Government to make the Royal Commission happen as soon as possible.”
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that one in five Australians have a disability, equating to about 4.3 million people.
