Preston
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Preston, an older man with a physical disability, told the Royal Commission he has been abused in the street by his neighbour.
‘I was continually called a “crippled bastard” because of a physical disability by a vindictive neighbour, with no legal repercussions for her under either state or federal law.’
Preston is worried for his granddaughter who also has disability. She ‘should not be subject to this filth,’ he said.
He argues that other minorities ‘defined along religious or racial lines for instance’ are protected by anti-vilification laws, ‘but it is open season on the disabled’.
Preston has lobbied state and federal leaders, and the Australian Human Rights Commission, to have people with disability included in anti-vilification laws.
‘All I received was the same weak response that I can’t be discriminated against in the areas of employment or access to buildings.’
Preston turned to the police for help and took out an apprehended violence order against his abusive neighbour, but this did nothing to stop the insults.
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.