NSW Commissioner to Investigate Aged Care Abuse
An independent Ageing and Disability Commissioner will be established in NSW to investigate and stamp out the abuse of older people and adults with disability.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the new Ageing and Disability Commissioner will start operations from 1 July 2019 to help protect older people and adults with disability in home and community settings.
“We will not tolerate the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older people, or people with disability,” Berejiklian said.
“That’s why we are introducing a powerful and independent Commissioner to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens are protected.”
Aged care facility abuse investigation
The Commissioner will investigate allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation and will provide support to vulnerable adults and their families/carers following investigations. It will also raise community awareness about abuse, neglect and exploitation, including providing advice on preventing, identifying and responding to potential issues.
Commissioner Powers
The Commissioner will be given special powers which will include:
- The power to initiate investigations on its own motion, or following a referral or complaint;
- The power to apply for and execute a search warrant, and seize evidence, as part of an investigation; and
- Information gathering and sharing powers
Read more at https://www.freedom2live.com.au/nsw-government-establishes-commissioner-to-protect-people-with-disability/
Full source credit: https://www.freedom2live.com.au/nsw-government-establishes-commissioner-to-protect-people-with-disability/
