May 14th, 2022Disability submissions

THE Royal Commission into violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of persons with a disability (DRC) is running until December 2022.

GdA indigenous support officer Fiona Tipping, left, and Your Story Legal Support Michelle Bowler, right, said at the end of September next year, the commission would present a report with recommendations to the government.
“We need help in collecting these stories also known as submissions, to make sure everyone’s voices are heard, and the important matters are talked about. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis, the DRC is open to anyone that identifies as having a disability, including people with mental health diagnosis, also known as psychosocial disability.
“The stories do not have to be limited to your personal experience, we welcome submissions from family, carers, friends, support workers and service providers. We are interested in good stories, what has worked well for you in the past, when have you been well supported.
“Recommendations, what would you like to see in the future in the disability space, what are the most pressing needs you have witnessed of people with disabilities? And also, stories about when you weren’t treated well.”
Ms Unwin said submissions could look very different for each person, from a voice recording on a phone or a painting, to a poem, video, written, on the phone or a private session. Private session registration end in June this year. The DRC has provided free and independent support for people wanting to tell their story, this includes advocacy, counselling and legal support.
“Grampians disAbility Advocacy is your local advocacy organisation, we are inviting you to an information session. We have noticed that a lot of people are not aware of the commission or not sure what its role is. We have decided to run these sessions in the hopes that people will come along and hear what it is all about.
“We have arranged speakers from each of the support agencies, ourselves, Your Story Disability Legal Support, Blue Knot counselling and a representative from the Disability Royal Commission. We invite you to come along, hear what the speakers have to say, ask any questions, and enjoy an afternoon tea.We will be there afterwards to chat and connect. Please register by calling 1800 552 272 or emailing admin@grampiansadvocacy.org.au”