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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

Terms of reference for the Royal Commission

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability was established on 4 April 2019 with the signing of the Letter Patent (which include the terms of reference) by the Governor-General.

The Royal Commission’s terms of reference cover what should be done to:

  • Prevent, and better protect, people with disability from experiencing violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation
  • Achieve best practice in reporting and investigating of, and responding to, violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation
  • Promote a more inclusive society that supports the independence of people with disability and their right to live free from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

The inquiry will cover all forms of violence against, and abuse, neglect and exploitation of, people with disability, in all settings and contexts.

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Royal Commission newsletter

The ‘Connect’ newsletter will help keep you up-to-date with everything going on at the Royal Commission.

For previous editions, download from the Royal Commission website

About the Royal Commission

The Disability Royal Commission has been established in response to widespread reports of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of people with disability. This video provides an overview of who they are, what they do and how they work.

Sharing your experience

Have you experienced violence, abuse, neglect or exploitation? Is there something you want to say about it? The Disability Royal Commission wants to hear from you. This video explains how you can share your story with them. 

Public hearings

Public hearings are an important part of the work of the Disability Royal Commission. This video explains how public hearings work, who is involved and what to expect if you are a witness at a public hearing.

Advocacy and counselling services

The organisations to provide advocacy and counselling services for people engaging with the Disability Royal Commission have been announced. A total of almost $140M has been allocated for advocacy, counselling and legal supports over three years. This includes nearly $28M for ten state-based counselling organisations to deliver in-person counselling. A large number of state-based advocacy organisations have also been funded.

Nationally, in addition to Blue Knot Foundation — which has run the National Counselling and Referral Service since October — $7.35M has been allocated for the following organisations to provide national systemic advocacy:

Royal Commission resources

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