The Australian Government has published an update on the actions it will take to implement the recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.
The Progress Update provides an overview of what processes and consultations the government is undertaking before it formally responds by mid-2024 to the Disability Royal Commission’s final report.
During four and a half years of inquiry, the Disability Royal Commission heard from people with disability, their families, organisations and government officials through public hearings, private sessions, submissions, and community engagements.
The government is carefully considering the Disability Royal Commission’s recommendations, and will continue to consult with people with disability, their families, carers, representative organisations, service providers and the broader community to inform a response that will drive meaningful and lasting change.
You can access the Progress Update. A summary is also available in Easy Read, Auslan, Braille and large print.
The update outlines key areas for action:
Strengthening outcomes under Australia’s Disability Strategy
Australia’s Disability Strategy is the national framework for disability policy. The strong commitment of all governments to it, and its alignment with focus areas of the Royal Commission, position it well as a key driver for delivering national change in response to the Royal Commission.
Getting the NDIS back on track
The Government has commenced a significant reform process to deliver an NDIS that works for people with disability.
Human rights of people with disability
The Final Report recommends changes to Australia’s legislative, policy and governance structures to achieve equality and inclusion, and advance the human rights of people with disability – including the right to live free from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Safeguarding
The Final Report outlined the need to strengthen safety and protection practices and frameworks across public, non-government and community systems.
Education
Governments will support schools to implement reasonable adjustments and produce information products to support students with disability and their parents and carers to understand and exercise their rights.
Employment
Actions will underpin a dynamic and inclusive labour market in which everyone has the opportunity for secure, fairly paid work. Inclusive employment and overcoming barriers to employment opportunities are among the objectives of the Government’s plan.
Housing
More social homes will be created across Australia, a National Housing and Homelessness Plan is being developed in collaboration with states and territories, and the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission aims to elevate the quality and safety of supported independent living.
First Nations people with disability
The Royal Commission found that policy frameworks and service delivery are failing to recognise and respond to the distinct needs of First Nations people with disability, resulting in poorer outcomes across multiple areas.
Health
The Government is progressing a number of initiatives to build a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system that supports the health and wellbeing of people with disability and promotes autonomy, choice and control.
Justice
People with disability are overrepresented in the criminal justice, particularly First Nations people with disability and people with cognitive disability.
Here is where you can access the Progress Update.