In this submission, QIDAN calls for de-institutionalisation and phasing out of group homes as recommended by the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (the DRC Report). To facilitate proper de-institutionalization, immediate interim reforms are imperative for Level 1, 2 and 3 residential services aiming to enhance safety, security and affordability.
QIDAN welcomed the Public Advocate’s invitation to discuss the role of supported accommodation in Queensland, given the outcomes of the Disability Royal Commission’s final report, published on 29 September 2023, as well as the Independent NDIS Review Report, published on 7 December 2023. QIDAN’s recommendations calls for long-term housing solutions for people with disability to prevent further violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and to honour the human rights for people with disabilities to have housing that is safe, secure, sustainable and affordable. Prioritizing the delivery of inclusive housing options for people with disability is crucial.
QIDAN supports the DRC finding that “there is too little cause or compulsion for inclusive housing options for people with disability to be developed in the mainstream housing system while group homes continue to exist. This is particularly the case for people with higher or complex support needs”.
