The state government announced last week that it will introduce new legislation to create the position as its first major act in the new Parliament.
An independent commissioner for senior and disabled Australians would be a first for NSW, and the role will have have broad-ranging powers to conduct investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect, compel information from individuals and organisations, and execute search warrants.
“If you intend, intentionally, to take advantage of someone vulnerable, or someone with a disability, or someone who is ageing, you won't get away with it”, said NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian (pictured).
Interviews are under way to select a candidate, with the intention of appointing the commissioner before July – less than three weeks away.
