Fraser Coast hosts Disability Royal Commission info sessions

Fraser Coast residents interested in sharing their stories with the Disability Royal Commission can find out about the free supports available at a series of information sessions happening in the region this weekend.

here to help lettering text on black background — Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels.com

Hosted by Your Story Disability Legal Support and Lotus Support Services, the sessions will be held on Saturday 13 August in the following locations:

Hervey Bay – Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre Boardroom, 22 Charles St, Pialba, from 9am to 11am
Maryborough – Maryborough City Hall Committee Room, 388 Kent St, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm

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Lotus Support Services spokesperson Mark Reimers said the forums are a chance for local people with disability and their supporters to learn more about the Royal Commission and how to access free counselling, advocacy and legal support if required.

“The Disability Royal Commission is investigating the mistreatment of people with disability in all contexts and settings,” he said.

“It’s taking submissions until 31 December and wants to hear stories from people with disability, as well as their family members, friends, carers, advocates and supporters. These could be about your child’s experiences at school, difficulties accessing the NDIS or support services, or discrimination in the workplace.

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“The Royal Commission is also interested in hearing people’s ideas for change, which will ultimately inform its recommendations to government for making Australia safer and more inclusive.”

Mr Reimers said a counsellor from Lotus Support Services can support people through the Royal Commission process, and free legal and advocacy support is also available.

Peter Im is a lawyer with Your Story Disability Legal Support, a free national service that gives independent legal advice and support to anyone considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission.

He explained why someone might need legal advice before sharing their story.

“You might be worried about your safety, access to services or employment, or you might want to name a person or organisation who mistreated you,” said Mr Im.

“We can talk to people about their options for sharing their story, and how to do this safely and privately. We can also connect them with support services and help with other legal problems they might be dealing with, such as the NDIS.”

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Mr Im said all are welcome at the Fraser Coast information sessions, which will include light refreshments.

“We invite Fraser Coast residents to come along to the information sessions to find out more about the Disability Royal Commission and the free supports available to them,” he said.