On Friday 29th October, the Final Report of Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability was tabled in parliament and released to the public. Nightlife acknowledges the historical importance of this moment. The Royal Commission was established four and a half years ago in 2019, after many years of campaigning from advocates and the disability community. The Royal Commission held 32 public hearings and received 7,944 submissions- 55% from people with disability and 29% from family members. Thousands of people relived their trauma in the hope their stories would be used to bring about systemic change. As a result, the Royal Commission has made 222 recommendations on how to create a more inclusive Australia where people with disability can live free of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. You can find the full report at www.disability.royalcommission.gov.au.
If you need support, Blue Knot can provide free specialist counseling and referrals for people affected by the Royal Commission. You can contact them on 1800 421 468, 9am - 6pm AEDT Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm AEDT Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays. Alternatively, you can always contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.