Carers ACT supports the Royal Commission’s work in uncovering the truth about the violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by individuals with disabilities and extend our deep appreciation to those who bravely shared their experiences.

In a system where carers are often whistleblowers to abuse and trusted advocates, we are deeply disappointed that carers were left out of many of the Commission’s recommendations and the ACT Government’s subsequent response. In a fragmented system of supports for people with disability, it is often family and friend carers who step up to fill the gaps left by inadequate or abusive services.

Meg Young, Acting CEO of Carers ACT, stated, “A world of inclusion, free from abuse and neglect, is the aspiration of all carers. We can no longer expect carers and family members to stand by as the people they love are exploited and abused, nor can we stand by and watch carers have no choice but to fill the gaps of a subpar disability system.“

One Canberra carer summarised, “my advocacy role takes up nearly half of my caring capacity… I don’t think the Government really understands how much carers help their loved ones.”

The ACT Government’s response primarily focused on existing strategies (including The ACT Disability Strategy 2024–2033, amongst others) that they feel will address the issues outlined in the Commission’s findings. While admirable strategies, their ability to correct the extensive issues outlined by the Royal Commission will require close monitoring. Carers ACT will seek to work closely with the ACT government to ensure response efforts translate into real improvements and support the rights of people with disability and their carers to have genuine choice.

“We’re looking to the ACT Government to not only drive change locally but to influence change at a national level. We don’t want them to wait for the national government; instead, we want them to lead the way in ending the abuse faced by people with disability.” – Meg Young Acting CEO at Carers ACT

Carers ACT urges the ACT Government to take decisive action and partner with disability and carer organisations to move beyond words and make real, impactful changes to end exploitation and build an inclusive community that cares.

For further information, contact carer.advocacy@carersact.org.au