National Disability Services (NDS) has released a set of Zero Tolerance films about Positive Cultures at a forum in Melbourne.

Acting NDS CEO, David Moody said: “The films depict important conversations to have as we continue making improvements to ensure the rights of people with disability, greater safety and quality services.”

The films have been developed for organisations to encourage conversations between people with disability, workers, managers, CEOs, boards and families. They are part of the NDS Zero Tolerance Initiative, a national approach to promoting human rights and addressing abuse, neglect and violence toward people with disability. NDS has been leading this initiative in partnership with the sector since 2013.

NDS is launching the films at a time when the sector is undergoing significant change, Moody said. “With the Royal Commission into abuse, neglect, violence and exploitation towards people with disability on the horizon, it is important that organisations continue to focus on their culture to ensure that everyone in the organisation feels valued listened to and safe to speak up.”

The forum also included tips about inclusive meeting practices for people with cognitive disability; an update on the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework and NDIS Code of Conduct from NDIS commissioner, Graeme Head; and conversations with representatives from government, people who use services, and service providers about the changes coming in July 2019 under the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework.

Photo: Zero Tolerance Initiative project lead, Liz Collier.