In what officials are calling a “regrettable oversight” the Victorian Labor Government has reached a new milestone: providing no meaningful disability support to a vulnerable Indigenous man—until after his death.
Despite repeated warnings from family members, advocates and professionals, help never arrived. Nevertheless, the government insists the matter was “handled appropriately, according to internal processes” which is precisely the problem.
Too Late, Again
Although the inquest revealed multiple missed opportunities, the government defended its inaction by pointing to future reforms and strategic plans. “We are committed to change” a spokesperson said, “especially once it’s too late to help anyone.”
In fact, one official admitted “We prioritise awareness campaigns, glossy reports and slogans. Actual support is… more of a long-term vision.”
Leading in Lip Service
While the public calls for accountability, the state’s leadership responded with the usual cycle: sorrowful press releases, promises of reviews, and strong commitments to “learning from the past” – which ironically, never seems to change the present.
“Sure, we missed it this time” one official added, “but we did roll out a powerful awareness campaign last month. That counts, right…?”
Rebranding the Crisis
To address growing criticism, there are now calls to rebrand the state’s slogan from “The Education State” to something more reflective of reality:
“Victoria: Where Justice is Delayed, Disability is Ignored and Reports Are on Time.”
In conclusion, while the government claims it is listening and evolving, the evidence continues to suggest otherwise. Until systems are built around people instead of paperwork, the cycle of failure will continue—efficiently managed, tragically familiar.
Disclaimer: This is satire. The inaction, however, is tragically real.
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