Sydney siege survivor Louisa Hope, the hostage who was used as a human shield by gunman Man Haron Monis, has refused all interview opportunities and offers for financial help.
The 50-year-old multiple sclerosis sufferer was allegedly chosen by Monis because the illness affects her energy and ability to walk.
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Craig Wallace, president of People with Disability Australia, told News Corp Ms Hope had refused all interview requests.
“She doesn’t want to be seen to be exploiting the situation and is really appropriate in what she does,” Mr Wallace said.
Despite sustaining a gunshot wound to her foot during the siege, Ms Hope and her 68-year-old mother who was also taken hostage have refused all offers for financial help.
According to the News Corp report, Ms Hope closed a bank account set up to financially benefit her with $4000 in it.
“She already has to walk with a cane, and she is going to need a lot of support to get her back on her feet,” Mr Wallace said.
“They are just closing ranks and focusing on their recovery.”
Ms Hope’s refusal to take money is in stark contrast with other survivors who have reportedly been paid up to $400,000 to tell their story.
Westpac executive Marcia Mikhael has allegedly been paid $400,000 by Channel 7 for her version of events, while the Nine Network has paid a reported sum of $1 million to interview six other hostages.
Ms Hope and her mother will be entitled to compensation of just $1500 under the NSW Victims Rights and Support Act 2013, and medical assistance up to $30,000.
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