Shepparton residents interested in sharing their stories with the Disability Royal Commission are invited to find out about free support available to them.
The royal commission is investigating mistreatment of people with disability and is taking submissions until December 31.
An information session is being held in Shepparton by support services Your Story Disability Legal Support, Relationships Australia Victoria, Drummond Street Services, Rights Information and Advocacy Centre and Leadership Plus.
“It’s important the royal commission hears from people with lived experience, including those in regional areas, so its recommendations to government properly reflect their needs and priorities,” Your Story lawyer Michelle Bowler said.
Your Story is a free national service providing independent legal advice and support to anyone considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission.
Relationships Australia Victoria and Drummond Street Services provide free and confidential counselling and support to people with disability who have been mistreated, and anyone affected by the Disability Royal Commission.
While RIAC and Leadership Plus provide free advocacy support for Victorians to access and be heard by the royal commission.
“We know 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,” RIAC advocate Rusi Varani said.
“The royal commission is a chance to shed light on the systemic issues people with disability face, and for those who’ve been mistreated to share their stories and be respectfully listened to.”
Madeline Lawson from Drummond Street Services encouraged anyone interested in finding out more to attend the information session in Shepparton.
“There will be demonstrations on how to share your story, onsite support, the opportunity to book follow-up appointments, and light refreshments,” she said.
“We invite Shepparton residents to come along on September 8 to find out more about the Disability Royal Commission and the free supports available to them.”
The event, Disability Matters Shepparton!, is being held at North Shepparton Community and Learning Centre, 10-14 Parkside Dve, from noon to 1.30pm on Thursday, September 8.
For more information and to register, visit www.eventbrite.com.au or contact Michelle Bowler on (03) 9606 5219 or email michelle.bowler@vla.vic.gov.au