Call for wider probe into disability abuse

The Australian Greens will introduce a motion in the Senate calling for a national inquiry into the abuse of people with a disability in institutions.

The move comes amid reports of the bungled handling of abuse and rape allegations against carers at Victorian disability provider Yooralla.

While both the Victorian coalition and Labor have promised to hold a parliamentary inquiry into disability care if they win the state election on Saturday, there are growing calls for more action.

Australian Greens spokesperson on disability issues Senator Rachel Siewert described the allegations as "shocking" and said a national inquiry was urgently needed.

Former disability discrimination commissioner Graeme Innes also wants a national inquiry.

"I have called for a national inquiry because the problem is across the country," he told ABC Radio.

Young People in Nursing Homes National Alliance and Children with Disability Australia also back the move.

Disability Advocacy Victoria said a parliamentary inquiry into Yooralla's abuse claims should be widened to include all disability services.

These calls for action follow media reports that Yooralla continued to employ abusive or corrupt staff despite warnings they preyed on disabled clients.

Yooralla says it has responded to the abuse reports by implementing procedures for staff recruitment, supervision and appraisal.