Melba Support Services, alongside many organisations in the disability sector, strongly supports the work of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (Disability Royal Commission).

At Melba we believe the abuse and neglect of people with disability is completely shameful and totally unacceptable. Further, we must have zero tolerance for abuse and other violations of individuals’ rights.

The Disability Royal Commission will provide a comprehensive and independent review into systemic issues of abuse, and importantly, will provide an important opportunity for the voices and experiences of people with disability and their loved ones to be heard.

Melba encourages, and will support individuals, families and staff to tell their story and contribute to the work of the Disability Royal Commission.

As a human rights-based organisation, we welcome the Royal Commission making important recommendations on reform, policy, and practice to address repeated and systemic issues of violence, abuse and neglect.

other helpful links and information

If you would like to learn more generally about the Disability Royal Commission, you can find regular updates, information and contact details on the official website. 
Disability Royal Commission reports can be found here.
You can subscribe to the Disability Royal Commission’s regular e-newsletter here.

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If you have experienced childhood trauma, you can speak with a Blue Knot Helpline trauma counsellor including for support and applications around national redress here.

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National Counselling and Referral Service

A national counselling and referral service is available for people with disability, their families and carers, and anyone affected by the Disability Royal Commission. It also provides a support service for people with disability, their families and carers who have experienced or witnessed abuse, neglect or exploitation.

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You may contact this service on 1800 421 468 (9am to 6pm weekdays and 9am to 5pm on weekends) for support for your emotional well-being, support for decisions around telling your story, and/or information on other practical supports available to you.

If you would like to know more about available supports, please visit:

https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers/disability-counselling-and-advocacy-support

Contact us about the Disability Royal Commission

Click here for Melba’s contact information: www.melbasupport.com.au/contact