Urgent need for change in disability services

Shadow Minister for Disability, Tim Bull

Shadow Minister for Disability Tim Bull has called on the Andrews Labor Government to act swiftly on a disturbing report into Victoria’s disability services sector released yesterday.

The final report of the Parliamentary Inquiry into Abuse in Disability Services was tabled in State Parliament on Thursday and put forward 49 recommendations for reform.

Mr Bull said the report showed there was a compelling need for change across the sector to protect vulnerable people.

“The disability services sector is supposed to protect our most vulnerable people from suffering violence, abuse and neglect and action is required sooner rather than later,” Mr Bull said.

“Minister Foley has said they will ‘carefully consider’ the report, but I am calling on the Andrews Government to expedite the process.

“There is no timeline for change, providing little comfort for vulnerable individuals and their families – they need help now.

“With the transition to the NDIS, there is no better time for Labor to fund these recommendations as part of the shift.”

The Inquiry was set up to look into failure to report or act upon abuse.
Media contact: Emma Manser 0437 225 386  emma.manser@opposition.vic.gov.au