Ageing and Disability Commissioner Act 2019

The Commissioner has the following functions—

to deal with allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults with disability and older adults, whether on the basis of a report made to the Commissioner or at the Commissioner’s own initiative, including by referring matters to appropriate persons or bodies and by conducting investigations,

to take further action, following an investigation into an allegation of abuse, neglect or exploitation of an adult with disability or older adult, that the Commissioner considers necessary to protect the adult from abuse, neglect and exploitation, including by making an application to a court or tribunal in respect of the adult,

to raise awareness and educate the public about matters relating to the abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults with disability and older adults,

to provide advice and general assistance to the public about matters relating to the abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults with disability and older adults, including referrals to independent advocacy services, where appropriate,

to inquire into and report on systemic issues relating to the protection and promotion of the rights of adults with disability and older adults or the abuse, neglect or exploitation of adults with disability or older adults,

to consult with the Board on matters relating to the abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults with disability and older adults that the Commissioner considers appropriate,

to advise, and make recommendations to, the Minister, at the Commissioner’s own initiative or at the request of the Minister, on matters relating to the abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults with disability and older adults,

to monitor, assess and report on the New South Wales implementation of Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031.

The Commissioner has any other functions that are conferred or imposed on the Commissioner by or under this or any other Act.

The Commissioner is not subject to the control or direction of the Minister.