“Commissioners Horrified by Shocking Revelations in Four Corners Exposé on …”

Commissioners ‘Appalled’ Following Four Corners Episode on Abusive Disability ‘Therapy’

Introduction

Two of Australia’s leading human rights leaders, Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher AM and National Children’s Commissioner Anne Hollonds, have expressed their grave concerns after shocking videos were broadcast on the ABC’s Four Corners program. These videos revealed children with intellectual disabilities being subjected to repeated restraint as part of a radical treatment funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The episode shed light on the controversial and abusive practices at Irabina Autism Services in Melbourne between 2019 and 2021.

Distressing Videos and Methods

Both Professor Croucher and Commissioner Hollonds described the videos and the methods used during the therapy sessions as distressing. They have called for stronger measures to safeguard people with disabilities, particularly children. Professor Croucher emphasized the need for a more robust quality and safeguarding model for disability service providers. She stressed the importance of providers having the knowledge and training necessary to avoid such harmful practices.

Regulation and Positive Outcomes

Professor Croucher called for better regulation of disability service providers and workers, with the ultimate goal of a scheme that delivers positive outcomes for people with disabilities. She expressed hope that the Disability Royal Commission, whose final report will be handed to the government on September 29, will address the distressing situations revealed in the Four Corners episode. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of the separate review into the NDIS, which is examining the quality and safeguarding model, to prevent such practices from happening again.

Failure of Systems and Urgency for Reform

Commissioner Hollonds expressed her concerns about the failure of systems meant to support vulnerable children and young people. She emphasized the need for urgent evidence-based reform, as the wellbeing of children should be a bipartisan national priority. Despite previous Royal Commissions and inquiries with numerous recommendations aimed at safeguarding children, the ongoing breaches of their human rights in Australia continue. Commissioner Hollonds highlighted the need to take seriously Australia’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

Editorial: Protecting Vulnerable Children with Disabilities

The Four Corners episode on abusive disability “therapy” has brought to the forefront the urgent need for better protection and care for vulnerable children with disabilities. It is distressing and disheartening to witness the violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation that still persist in our society. The revelations in this episode highlight the failures of our systems and the necessity for reforms to ensure the welfare and rights of all individuals, regardless of their disabilities.

Quality and Safeguarding Measures

The cornerstone of any disability service provider should be the wellbeing and safety of their clients. It is crucial to have a more robust quality and safeguarding model in place to prevent the repetition of such disturbing practices. This model should encompass strict regulations for providers and workers, including the necessary knowledge and training to avoid harmful treatment methods. By ensuring that disability service providers adhere to a higher standard of care, we can protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and work towards positive outcomes for all.

Role of the Disability Royal Commission

The Disability Royal Commission plays a vital role in addressing the distressing situations exposed by the Four Corners episode. It is imperative that the commission’s final report reflects the urgency of the situation and provides comprehensive recommendations to prevent future abuses. The government must take these recommendations seriously and implement the necessary reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of people with disabilities.

Recognition of Children’s Unique Needs

Commissioner Hollonds’ call for greater recognition of children’s unique needs is crucial. Children make up a significant portion of the Australian population, and their well-being should be a national priority. Policymakers must address the human and economic costs of overlooking children’s needs, ensuring that they are protected and supported. Australia’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child must be upheld, and evidence-based reform should be implemented urgently.

Advice: Moving Towards a More Inclusive Society

As a society, we have a moral obligation to protect and empower vulnerable individuals, particularly children with disabilities. To achieve this, we must implement the following measures:

Strengthening Regulations

The regulation of disability service providers must be significantly strengthened. This includes regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure compliance with strict standards and guidelines. Additionally, staff training should be comprehensive and ongoing to enhance their understanding of proper care and support for individuals with disabilities.

Investing in Research and Evidence-based Practices

To provide the best possible care, investment in research and evidence-based practices is essential. This requires ongoing collaboration between researchers, service providers, and policymakers. By adopting a scientific approach to disability care, we can ensure that interventions are effective and tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals.

Fostering Inclusion and Empowerment

Creating an inclusive society requires efforts to remove barriers and promote the active participation of individuals with disabilities. This can be achieved through accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, and employment opportunities. By empowering individuals with disabilities, we grant them the agency to make choices and live fulfilling lives.

Raising Awareness and Advocacy

Raising awareness about the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities is crucial to driving societal change. Education campaigns, public forums, and media engagement can help challenge stereotypes and promote understanding and empathy. Additionally, advocating for policy changes and legislative reforms can create structural transformations that protect the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.

Conclusion

The Four Corners episode has shed light on the disturbing treatment of children with disabilities and the urgent need for better protection and support. The responsibility falls on all of us, individuals, service providers, policymakers, and the wider community, to ensure that the rights and well-being of people with disabilities are upheld. By implementing stronger regulations, investing in research and evidence-based practices, fostering inclusion and empowerment, and raising awareness and advocacy, we can strive towards a more inclusive and compassionate society for all Australians.