THE disability community is finally getting the chance to have its voice heard through the Disability Royal Commission.

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability was established in 2019 in response to community concern about the treatment of the disability community.

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On 11 August, an event was held collaboratively by Disability Advocacy NSW and Interrelate, ‘Your Story’ at The Place in Charlestown for regional community members to receive free support and advice in making a submission to the commission.

‘Your Story’ Director Susannah O’Reilly told News Of The Area the event provided an additional avenue of support for people considering providing information to the Royal Commission.

“We know that people with disability often face challenges such as exclusion from school, difficulties accessing services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and a lack of support and discrimination in the workplace,” said Ms O’Reilly.

“It’s important the Royal Commission hears from people with lived experience, including those in regional areas, so its recommendations to the government reflect their needs and priorities.”

Your Story is a free national service that gives independent legal advice and support to anyone considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission.

Partnering with Disability Advocacy NSW, an advocacy support service and Interrelate, a free, confidential and independent counselling and submission support service, Your Story invites members of the disability community to seek the assistance they require, through a range of avenues.

Community members are encouraged to make contact with Your Story for assistance about how to tell your story, support for making a submission, support in private sessions with the Royal Commission, assistance with other legal problems and importantly, support and connection with counselling services before, during and after your story is told to the Commission.

Support is available for residents across NSW, including the MidCoast and Port Stephens regions, who are encouraged to share their experience.

The Commission is receiving submissions until 31 December 2022.

Six Commissioners have been appointed to examine and expose the injustice towards people with disability: the Honourable Ronald Sackville AO QC, Ms Barbara Bennett PSM, Dr Rhonda Galbally, Ms Andrea Mason OAM, Mr Alastair McEwin AM and the Honourable John Ruan AM.

Two of the Commissioners, Dr Rhonda Galbally and Alastair McEwin, are people with disability.

Chairman Ronald Sackville is a former judge with extensive experience of the law and the conduct of public inquiries.

Andrea Mason is a Ngaanyatjarra and Kronie woman from Western Australia, and Commissioners Barbara Bennett and John Ryan have extensive experience in the disability and human services sector.

Anyone wishing to be involved with Your Story for free, independent legal support for sharing their story with the Disability Royal Commission, phone freecall 1800 77 1800, or go online to www.yourstorydisabilitylegal.org.au

By Tara CAMPBELL