The Australian Government has formally released its initial response to the final report of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, committing to a major, phased program of reform that will reshape disability rights, policy, and services across the country.
The Royal Commission, which concluded in September 2023, delivered 12 volumes containing 222 recommendations aimed at creating a safer, more inclusive Australia where the human rights of people with disability are upheld. The Commonwealth Government, which holds primary or shared responsibility for 172 of the recommendations, has announced it has accepted or accepted in principle 130 of them, with a commitment to further work and consultation on the remainder.
The government’s response outlines action across four key pillars:
Better Safeguarding: Implementing new systems to prevent harm and exploitation, particularly in service settings.
Upholding Human Rights: Laying the groundwork for potential new legislation, such as an Australian Disability Rights Act, to embed human rights into law and practice.
Promoting Inclusion and Accessibility: Driving reform in mainstream services like education, employment, and housing.
First Nations People with Disability: Recognising and addressing the unique perspectives and experiences of First Nations people with disability.
Crucially, the government has affirmed that the implementation of these reforms will be a multi-year effort, undertaken in co-design and partnership with people with disability, their families, and the disability sector, ensuring that the voices of those most affected drive the process.
Source Link: Disability Royal Commission Response