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The stark report reveals the statistics and issues through the story of one woman, Katelyn, and her mother Ava (not their real names). The guardian controls almost every aspect of Ava’s life, from where she lives to who she can contact.
Katelyn and her family have raised serious allegations against the state, which they say has failed to ensure Ava receives adequate care, including medical services like a crucial heart monitor. According to the ABC report, this is emblematic of an under-resourced system. An ageing population and increasing cases of dementia, mental illness, and intellectual disability are cited as contributing factors.
It says that nationwide, the number of people under state guardianship has grown 23 per cent in the past five years, according to the Australian Guardianship and Administration Council.