News
Media Release - 26 October 2001
Senator Amanda Vanstone, Minister for Family & Community Services and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women
National Disability Service Abuse and Neglect Hotline
Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Amanda Vanstone, announced today that the new National Disability Service Abuse and Neglect Hotline would commence operations from next Monday, 29 October 2001.
“I first announced the Government’s intention to establish this Hotline in August this year and am pleased to say that the service will be up and running as of 8am next Monday,” Senator Vanstone said.
“The Hotline will be available to take reports of abuse or neglect of people with disabilities using government-funded services.
“Operators will refer reports to the appropriate government authority or relevant complaints resolution service.
“The Hotline will be staffed by people with an understanding of the disability sector and who are sensitive to the needs of people with disabilities. In some instances, they will be able to provide immediate advice to callers.
“The Hotline means that people with a disability or those calling on their behalf don’t have to worry about which government or government agency funds the organisation they have concerns about. By dialling one number, they can make a report and be assured it will passed to the appropriate place for proper investigation and resolution.
“The Hotline will be available to people with disabilities, their carers, parents, advocates, staff at services and health professionals.
“Importantly, anonymous reports will be accepted and the privacy of those making reports will be closely guarded.
“People With Disabilities [NSW] will operate the Hotline which will be available between 8am and 11pm [EST].”
The Hotline number is 1800 880 052.