The Albanese Government has revealed its response to the landmark disability royal commission report, which exposed widespread rates of abuse and neglect being experienced by millions of Australians living with a disability. Source: 9news.com.au.
The four-and-a-half year, $600 million investigation culminated in a report released last September which handed down 222 recommendations aimed at federal, state and territory governments, as well as non-government agencies.
In its response, the Government said it “accepted” or “accepted in principle” 130 of the 169 recommendations which fell either completely or jointly under its responsibilities.
However, the Government has fallen short of committing to one of the report’s most controversial recommendations – to end segregated or special schooling by 2051, including removing disability-only classes and schools.
“The Australian Government recognises the ongoing role of specialist settings in service provision for students with disability and providing choice for students with disability and their families,” the Government said in its response.
“State and territory governments will continue to be responsible for making decisions about registration of schools in their jurisdictions, with the intent to strengthen inclusive education over time.”
Recommendations accepted in principle include strengthening the Disability Discrimination Act, and improving access to information and interpreters, including Auslan.
The federal Government will spend $369 million towards its initial response, including $227.6 million to implement a new specialist disability employment program.
Australian Disability Network CEO Corene Strauss said they were “underwhelmed” and “frustrated” by the Government’s response, despite the additional funding.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said in a statement the Government’s response was an important step to realising the vision for an inclusive Australia.
“We are committed to continued and sustained effort across all jurisdictions, and all levels of government, to ensure the implementation of agreed recommendations leads to real and lasting change for people with disability,” Ms Amanda Rishworth said.
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Albanese Government reveals long-awaited response to disability royal commission (By Emily McPherson, 9news.com.au)
