Jayne has been disabled since the age of twelve and has lived with chronic illness and disability for the past eighteen years. Much of her life has been spent bedridden and isolated in a dark room.
In a previous de facto relationship, Jayne’s Disability Support Pension was reduced twice. Despite this loss of income, she was still paying more than half of the household bills while trying to survive on just $800 a fortnight. That relationship ultimately turned sour, causing Jayne to suffer the pain of domestic violence and, like many others, Partner Income Testing created an environment for that abuse to thrive.
Even when living alone, the Disability Support Pension sits below the poverty line. Jayne believes that disabled Australians should not become second-class citizens simply because they choose to enter a relationship or start a family.
She has worked painstakingly to improve her health to be able to become a wife and mother. She should not have to sacrifice her financial independence, security, or rights as an Australian simply because she wants the same opportunities as everyone else.
Jayne continues working towards the goal of no longer needing the Disability Support Pension. However, if her health only allows her to manage the household responsibilities that a family requires, she believes she should still retain her financial support as a disabled woman.
Like many disabled Australians, Jayne is not asking for special treatment. She is asking for the same basic rights, independence, and dignity that non-disabled Australians are able to expect.