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

NOW READ: Fraser Coast eyes world’s longest scooter convoy

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.

WATCH: New Library and Council admin centre has ‘community at its core’

“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.

Find it Fraser Coast

“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.”

ALSO READ: New website helps you find the best of the Fraser Coast

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.

good news fraser coast

To RSVP, email lotussupportservices@micahprojects.org.au or call 07 3036 4490.

Please include any dietary requirements.


find it fraser coast

Hashtags: #goodnewsfrasercoast | #frasercoastnews | #frasercoast | #finditfrasercoast
Keywords: Good News Fraser Coast | Fraser Coast News | Hervey Bay news | Maryborough news | Find it Fraser Coast

Leave a Reply