I want to firstly say that the Ageing and Disability Commission remains available to support you, adults with disability and older people during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We are following the relevant advice from the Australian Government and the NSW Government, while ensuring we remain connected to our partners and community.

I also want to acknowledge the statements from the Chair of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Hon. G. T. Pagone QC, and the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, regarding COVID-19. Both call upon all Australians in the community to be vigilant about the steps we need to take to protect those more vulnerable to the virus. 

While the current social distancing and isolation precautions are necessary, and we support them entirely, we must also do what we can to continue to engage with and support older people and people with disability in our community. Please use this guide to see how you can remain connected, and talk with vulnerable adults about how they can better support themselves. I have been discussing these strategies with many ABC radio networks across the state to share this important message.

Finally, the Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline remains open to manage and respond to abuse, neglect and exploitation of older people and adults with disability. A further unfortunate consequence at a time like this is the potential increase in abuse and neglect toward vulnerable people. I urge you to contact us if you have suspicions or concerns on 1800 628 221 (M-F, 9-5).

Take care of yourselves and each other, 
Robert Fitzgerald AM
Commissioner.

Find out more about DCJ essential services.

The Department of Communities and Justice have launched a website dedicated to providing information about the continued delivery of their essential services during COVID-19 shutdowns. This includes information for older people, carers and people with disability.

Information for older people on COVID-19.

The Australian Government has developed an information guide for older Australians, their family and friends about how to protect them from the spread of COVID-19. You can also find relevant links and information on COTA’s website.

Key information for people with disability.

A range of information is available for people with disability regarding COVID-19, including regular updates from the Australian Government. PWDA have a dedicated hub listing official information and links to key services. The NDIS also has a dedicated support and information page for recipients of NDIS services, and NDIS service providers.