SUPPLIED
RESIDENTS across the Darling Downs, Southern Downs and Surat Basin regions who are interested in sharing their stories with the Disability Royal Commission can find out about the free supports available at information sessions running throughout next week.
The sessions, hosted by Lotus Support Services and Your Story Disability Legal Support, will be date at the following locations:
- Warwick – RSL Club Warwick, 65 Albion St, on Monday 4 July from 11am to 1pm
- Stanthorpe – downstairs function room, Stanthorpe RSL Services Club, 46 Marsh St, on Monday 4 July from 3pm to 5pm
- Goondiwindi – River Room, Goondiwindi Waggamba Community Cultural Centre, 26 Russell St, on Tuesday 5 July from 12pm to 2pm
- St George – Wallam and Mungalalla Rooms, St George Cultural Centre, 112 Victoria Street, on Wednesday 6 July from 10am to 12pm
- Roma – Ernest Brock Room, Roma Cultural Centre, corner of Bungil and Quinton Streets, on Thursday 7 July from 10am to 12pm
- Dalby – function room, Dalby Leagues Club, corner of Orpen and Drayton Streets, on Friday 8 July from 10am to 12pm
Lotus Support Services spokesperson Mark Reimers said forums were 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.
“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 could support people through the Royal Commission process, and free legal and advocacy support was also available.
Your Story Disability Legal Support spokesperson Bradley Heilbronn (pictured) said a Your Story lawyer could give people free legal advice and support them to make a submission. 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,” he said.
“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.”
To RSVP, email lotussupportservices@micahprojects.org.au or call 07 3036 4490. Please include any dietary requirements.