Police in Western Australia have launched an investigation following disturbing allegations that a young disabled man was assaulted while under the care of support workers at a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supported home. The incident, which occurred just before Christmas, has raised serious questions about care standards and safeguarding within disability accommodation services.
Mother's Shocking Discovery
Corey Wooller, a 25-year-old who lives with severe autism and is non-verbal, was allegedly attacked at a My Way Disability and Aged Care facility in Western Australia. His injuries were only discovered when his mother, Kim McBrearty, made an unexpected visit to the 'My Way' home and found her son laying on a couch, visibly injured and without any medical attention.
Horrific photographs of Corey's condition show his right arm covered in large, dark bruises, deep red markings down his back, and blood smeared across his face. Ms McBrearty told 7News that she had to demand that an ambulance be called to attend to her son, who subsequently spent four weeks in hospital receiving treatment for his injuries.
Allegations of Neglect and Trauma
'You don’t want to put your children in these places, and you put your trust and care in these people,' Ms McBrearty stated. 'And they’re getting good money for doing it, and they’re just not doing it. I mean, that's definitely neglect.'
While Corey's physical injuries have since healed, his mother reports that the psychological trauma from the incident has fundamentally changed him. She revealed that he no longer allows her to hug him, indicating significant emotional scarring from the alleged assault. Ms McBrearty now believes her son is no longer safe at the My Way accommodation facility.
Conflicting Explanations and Official Response
My Way CEO, Peter Mapior, provided a different perspective on the incident, stating that Corey had a 'chronic blood disorder which caused his skin to bruise.' In an official statement, Mapior explained: 'Corey was known to have nose bleeding occasionally and calling ambulance was in a safety plan. My Way Disability and Aged Care has investigated and reported the incident to NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.'
However, Ms McBrearty disputes this characterization, noting that the accommodation provider—which prides itself on treating 'people with disability, families or carers with deep respect, dignity, and as equal citizens'—has not provided the family with any explanation about what actually occurred during the incident.
Police Investigation and Limitations
Western Australia Police confirmed they are investigating the incident, though they clarified they will not be examining Ms McBrearty's allegation of neglect as it does not constitute a criminal matter under current legislation. The investigation focuses specifically on the alleged assault that left Corey with visible injuries.
It remains unclear whether the support worker involved in Corey's care on the day of the incident continues to be employed by My Way. The Daily Mail has contacted both WA's Minister for Disability Services, Hannah Beazley, and My Way for further comment on the ongoing situation.
My Way's NDIS Accommodation Services
The Western Australia-based provider offers three distinct types of NDIS supported housing options:
- Individualised living options for participants who can live independently with minimal support
- Supported independent living for participants with more complex needs
- Specialist disability accommodation (SDA) for participants with very complex needs
According to the My Way website, their SDA homes are purpose-built facilities that can be customized based on specific participant requirements. For instance, participants with autism spectrum conditions may have sensory devices integrated into their living environments to better accommodate their needs.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about the quality of care and oversight within disability support services across Australia, particularly as the NDIS continues to expand its reach and services nationwide.
