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A future without violence
Disability Discrimination Commissioner Alastair McEwin ( picture above ) recently released the report , ' A Future Without Violence : Quality , safeguarding and oversight to prevent and address violence against people with disability in institutional settings '.
Commissioner McEwin said violence against people with disability in institutional settings is a significant social policy issue in Australia .
“ More than 4.3 million Australians have a disability . They experience violence at a higher rate than other people in the community . People receiving disability services in institutional settings are even more vulnerable to violence ,” Commissioner McEwin said .
The report sheds light on challenges inherent to the National Disability Insurance Scheme ( NDIS ) reform process and provides an independent assessment of quality , safeguarding and oversight frameworks as they are transitioned from the states and territories to the Commonwealth Government .
“ It is my sincere hope that this report will prompt intensified efforts to strengthen quality , safeguarding and oversight mechanisms so we can move towards a future where people with disability can live their lives free from violence ,” Commissioner McEwin said . www . humanrights . gov . au
Shepherd Centre accolades
The Shepherd Centre won two awards at the New South Wales Business Chamber Awards for the City of Sydney region recently .
The non-profit organisation for children with hearing impairment was awarded the Excellence in Business award , while Chief Executive Officer Dr Jim Hungerford was recognised as an Outstanding Business Leader .
Dr Hungerford said he was honoured that both he and the organisation were recognised for their hard yet rewarding work .
“ The children and families we support are our primary focus and , collectively as a team , we are passionate about ensuring that all children with hearing loss have the best possible start in life ,” he said .
“ For myself and the organisation to be recognised among some of the City of Sydney ’ s brightest businesses is truly humbling .”
Dr Hungerford and The Shepherd Centre will now compete at the NSW Business Chamber State Awards to be held at Luna Park on November 23 . www . shepherdcentre . org . au
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