Historic inquiry opens in Brisbane

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability officially opens in Brisbane today.

The Chair of the Royal Commission, the Hon Ronald Sackville AO QC, said the Royal Commission is the result of the tireless campaign by people with disability and their supporters.

'The most important part of the Royal Commission's work is our engagement with people with disability, their families and supporters. Your contributions will be the heart and soul of this Royal Commission. You are the key to its success.

'We are deeply conscious of the magnitude and complexity of the task ahead of us. It is truly formidable' said the Chair.

Commissioner Andrea Mason OAM will made an Acknowledgement to Country and spoke about the importance of the national inquiry to First Nations People.

'I want to reassure all First Nations People, their carers and advocates that this Royal Commission, with all of its powers and protections, is a safe place for you to speak your truth' said Commissioner Mason.

Commissioner Alastair McEwin AM also paid tribute to the hard work of the disability community in establishing the Royal Commission.

'The Royal Commission came about through many years of advocacy by people with disability and their allies.  We pay tribute to their efforts to shine a spotlight on this issue.  We say to them: the establishment of this Royal Commission is your achievement.  Your human rights are and will be at the heart of everything we do at this Royal Commission' said Commissioner McEwin.

The first public sitting is a ceremonial hearing so there will not be any testimony heard or evidence given. There will be many opportunities for people to share their experiences over the life of the inquiry.

As part of the Royal Commission, people will be able to make submissions in their own first language, including Auslan and Indigenous languages. The Royal Commission is also investigating options to receive submissions in video and audio formats.

'We are conscious that the disability community and their supporters, as well as the wider Australian community, have extremely high expectations of this Royal Commission. People want and expect real change.' said the Chair.

The first public sitting is the first time the full bench of the Commission is sitting. In addition to statements by the Chair and Commissioners Mason and McEwin, Senior Counsel Assisting Rebecca Treston QC will also be speaking.