In a painful journey marked by betrayal and suffering, Mr. Dane Waites, a survivor of repeated sexual abuse at the Catholic-run Churinga Special Residential School, bravely stood against his abusers and successfully secured compensation from St John of God. This compensation is a testament to the justice he rightfully deserves for the horrendous abuse he endured—an ordeal that no child should ever experience.

It is unacceptable that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) now aims to access this compensation, which is intended to offer some solace and recognition of the trauma Mr. Waites faced. The abuse Mr. Waites suffered was unrelated to any disability; it was a violation of his dignity and human rights. Hence, the compensation awarded should solely benefit him, free from any encroachment.

The Australian Lawyers Alliance has continuously advised the government that survivors of historical child abuse should not be subject to compensation recovery or reduction. Such acts undermine the gravity of their experiences and dishonor the intentions of compensation, which is meant to help survivors rebuild their lives.

Taking Mr. Waites' compensation to offset NDIS benefits is not only unjust but establishes a distressing precedent for all survivors of abuse. It sends a message that the financial reparations meant to aid healing and provide justice can be eroded by bureaucratic decisions, negating their purpose.

The government must intervene to ensure the NDIS respects the purpose of abuse compensation and protects it from any attempts to reduce its intended impact. By taking this crucial step, they can uphold principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that the NDIS does not further victimize our most vulnerable citizens.

We ask you to support Mr. Waites and all survivors by signing this petition to demand the Australian Government halt the NDIS from accessing compensation for abuse survivors. Let us stand together for justice and dignity.