Ling
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.
About a decade ago, Ling was attacked and punched while working as a supermarket security guard. Now in 50s, he lives with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Today Ling receives an NDIS package for ‘a carer and the cleaner’, as well as counsellors. He struggles to find a bulk-billed psychologist, which means his ‘severe’ mental health issues are going untreated.
‘My medication is not suitable for me and I want to see a psychiatrist. It’s at least $400. I can’t afford that. And sometimes all the problem I have got is because I don’t have psychologist.’
A couple of years ago, Ling set up a peer support group for people with disability in the Chinese community. He’s hoping the NDIS will give the group some funding.
‘I’ve got a few people they don’t even know [about] the NDIS. Then I told them. They go to NDIS.’
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.