Australians living with disabilities who receive services from providers outside the National Disability Insurance Scheme could be better supported and protected from harm.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth is expected to introduce legislation on Thursday that will protect the rights and safety of those living with disability who are seeking support services.
Ms Rishworth says the proposed reforms will “support people to participate in society, ensure safe and quality services and protect their rights”.
This follows disturbing revelations of abuse from within disability service providers heard at the disability royal commission.
About one in every six Australians, or 4.4 million people, live with disability and many receive support from services separate from the NDIS.
Disability services providers outside the NDIS will be held to a code of conduct and required to obtain a certificate of compliance to ensure the rights and safety of their clients.
Organisations found to have breached the code could have their arrangements with the federal government revoked.
Additionally, anyone living with a disability, or their carers and families, will also be able to complain about any services they receive.
The bill comes on the eve of the closing ceremony for the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.
It is aimed at ensuring the government can respond effectively to the final recommendations when they are delivered at the end of September.
The reforms were created in consultation with those people living with disabilities and their relatives, alongside service providers and government agencies.
The proposed laws will also make funding easier for a wider range of non-NDIS services and supports, and allow them to receive money from sources other than grants.
Australian will be brought in line with obligations under the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of People with Disability by “focusing on capacity, experience, empowerment, potential and goals for people with disability”.
AAP
