The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (DRC) released their Interim Report on 30 October.  Their final report may be deferred from April 2022 to September 2023, owing to the impact of COVID-19.

Key themes include choice and control, attitudes towards disability, segregation and exclusion, restrictive practices, access to services and supports, advocacy and representation, oversight and complaints, and funding.

Key issues across systems and services were also identified in the Issues Report. These include education and learning, homes and living, health care, relationships, community participation, economic participation, the NDIS, and the justice system.

The DRC also released their schedule of events to December 2021. Public hearings will focus on First Nations people with disability, employment, education settings, justice system, NDIS, disability support workforce, health care and the safety of women and girls with a disability.  Currently no hearings are scheduled to be held in Adelaide.

Baptist Care SA has submitted two responses to Issues Papers (specifically, the First Nations, and Restrictive Practices Issues Papers) and have received acknowledgement of these submissions.

The full Interim Report and schedule can be found on the DRC website, along with the Research Reports www.disability.royalcommission.gov.au

The Disability Royal Commission has developed a new infographic, highlighting important information about First Nations people with disability. Click here to download.

If you wish to engage with the DRC, visit the website for further information. Our First Nations People and those from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background are encouraged to engage with the DRC.

For further information, contact Chelsea Arnold at Baptist Care SA on 8273 7100 or [email protected].