Victoria’s disability sector has once again been thrown into confusion as the Allan Labor Government backflips on plans to merge the state’s disability watchdogs into a larger Social Services Regulator, a move strongly opposed by disability groups and the Disability Royal Commission.
Minister for Disability, Lizzie Blandthorn, embarrassingly withdrew her bill from Parliament after coming under fire from almost 20 disability organisations, but then, only hours later doubled down, saying the merger would still go ahead.
The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, said the government’s constant backflips were leaving families and disability providers across the Mildura electorate frustrated and worried about the future.
“Our providers and families deserve support, not mixed messaging and confusion. Labor’s mishandling of the disability sector is leaving people who rely on disability services feeling ignored and let down,” Ms Benham said.
“Disability groups across the state have been very clear. They want a stand-alone disability complaints service, not a bigger, more cumbersome regulator that also handles housing, mental health and children’s services.
“Minister Blandthorn believes she knows better than a Royal Commission. This level of hubris is simply astounding.”
Adding insult to injury, disability groups were not properly consulted in these decisions.
“The Minister’s own slogan is ‘nothing about us without us’. But once again Labor is doing exactly the opposite,” Ms Benham said.
“This is yet another example of Labor’s incompetence. Labor can’t manage disability services and regional Victorians are paying the price.
“I encourage all local service providers, carers, and families across the Mildura electorate who have questions or concerns to contact my office. I will be more than happy to sit down with you and offer any assistance I can.”
