Vic inquiry into abuse of disabled

Victoria's ombudsman will probe the disability sector, saying something is wrong with how abuse allegations are handled.

Ombudsman Deborah Glass says she will investigate existing practices after learning recent high-profile cases of abuse are only the "tip of the iceberg".

"Something is wrong with our systems, and we need to understand what is broken and what can be done to fix it," she said.

"The Public Advocate has told me that the high-profile cases of abuse are only the tip of the iceberg."

Ms Glass says concerns will persist if people do not report allegations, or if those reports are not taken seriously and properly investigated.

Her investigation comes after recent media reports disability service provider 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.

Data from the disability services commissioner, the Office of the Public Advocate and the Victorian ombudsman have already revealed concerns about delays, lack of awareness and co-ordination, poor investigation and poor communication with clients and families.

Ms Glass's probe will focus on the reporting and investigation of abuse claims in residential, respite and day programs funded by the Victorian government.

It will also look at responsibilities of agencies, including the Department of Human Services and the disability services commissioner.

Ms Glass said it was important robust reporting systems were in place as Victoria began to roll out the National Disability Insurance Scheme.