BSL statement on the Australian Government Response to the Disability Royal Commission

The Australian Government this week released their response to the Final Report of the Disability Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (Disability Royal Commission).

Along with many other organisations and people living with disability, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) is deeply disappointed by the small number of recommendations that have been accepted in-full. The Disability Royal Commission heard directly from people with disability about their devastating accounts of violence, neglect and exploitation in a range of settings. Through over 222 recommendations, the Final Report called for a radical shift to ensure the rights of people with disability are adequately protected, that their autonomy is respected, and that government services are truly inclusive.

The government response does not meet the ambition set by people with disability themselves for this extensive and significant process. There is still uncertainty around the status of the majority of recommendations, despite the considerable time that has elapsed since the final report was released in September 2023.

BSL is also concerned that, for the 36 recommendations that the government has said require further consideration, these do not have clear timelines or responsibilities. This adds to the level of uncertainty around achieving the full ambition of reforms.

In addition, the response is not adequately linked to the Independent Review into the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Both the Disability Royal Commission and NDIS Review have significant implications for people with disability and it is important that a wholistic government response considers both in a coordinated manner.

BSL continues to advocate alongside people with disability and urges government to provide a comprehensive and coordinated response to both the Disability Royal Commission and the NDIS Review that includes clear timelines and plans for implementation.

Media inquiries: Bridie Riordan M: 0491 159 256, media@bsl.org.au