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

The Disability Royal Commission (DRC) was announced in April 2019.

To find out how the Disability Royal Commission is responding to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, click here.

Northcott strongly welcomes and supports the Disability Royal Commission as a key opportunity to better preserve and protect the human rights of people with disability.

Importantly, it is also a critical step towards righting the wrongs of the past.

The Commission wants to hear from all Australians about their experiences of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of people with disability.

In particular, the Commission wants to hear about the following:

  • Incidents of violence, neglect, abuse or exploitation of people with disability.
  • Complaints processes and outcomes.
  • Lack of access to support or services.
  • Quality of disability support services.
  • Examples of best practice and innovation.

The Commission is seeking to make it as easy as possible for people with disability to participate. Australian Government-funded services are also available to assist those requiring support during the Royal Commission.

See the panel below to find out how you can share your story and receive support.

Click here for the latest news on the Disability Royal Commission.

Make a submission

Complete the online form

Call 1800 517 199

drcenquiries@royalcommission.gov.au

Get support

Advocacy Call 1300 665 908

Legal Call 1800 771 800

Counselling Call 1800 421 468

FAQs

Disability Royal Commission FAQs

What is a royal commission?

A royal commission is the highest form of inquiry on matters of public importance in the Australian system of government.

How does it come about?

A royal commission is generally the result of ongoing governance failures in particular systems (e.g. aged care, banking, institutions caring for children, etc)

Who runs a royal commission?

A royal commission is led by independent commissioners, who are supported by a range of expert staff. There are seven commissioners in the Disability Royal Commission (including the Chairman). The commissioners conduct research, consult, invite (and can demand) submissions and summons witnesses.

How long does it take?

The Disability Royal Commission was announced in April 2019 and began accepting submissions in July 2019. The Commissioners are required to provide an interim report no later than 30 October 2020, and a final report by no later than 29 April 2022.

What happens at the end?

The commissioners and their staff prepare a comprehensive report and provide recommendations to the Australian Government regarding practices and prosecutions. However, the Government is not required to implement the recommendations of a royal commission.