Jair
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.
Jair is in his 30s and has a physical disability. He uses crutches and a mobility scooter and lives with chronic pain.
He is not confident speaking English, and talked to the Royal Commission with the help of an interpreter.
Australia granted Jair refugee status more than five years ago, and doctors diagnosed serious health concerns while he was in offshore immigration detention.
Authorities recently issued Jair a bridging visa. As a condition of the visa, Jair is expected to find a job and support himself.
But Jair says his disability prevents him from working.
‘I don't have … help outside. I don't know how they allowed me like this, and ask me to work and look after. I have medical problem.’
Jair has access to Medicare.
‘Whenever I go to hospitals, I meet different doctors. Each doctor said different things. One person told, "You can't be cured”. One person asked to take medication. So, they gave different medications time to time … I'm scared I may get side effects. So, they initially did do some kidney problem side effects. So therefore, I have totally stopped taking medication.’
Jair is unable to access the NDIS. Because he can’t work, he relies on community volunteers to help him live.
‘I can't get back home also, and I have some food problem with those things. So, they get this visa and just left me, so I can't go home for this visa. For how long I am going to be like this?’
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.