Standing together against elder abuse

The Victorian government is expanding efforts to prevent and respond to elder abuse, to ensure older Victorians are respected, supported and safe.

Marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt and Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins announced a $760,000 package to strengthen prevention activities and build workforce capability across the family violence and aged care sectors.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15) is a global opportunity to raise awareness of elder abuse – a serious and often hidden issue affecting older people.

Research shows tone in six older people may be experiencing elder abuse but the true number is likely much higher, as it often goes unrecognised or unreported.

This package will invest $600,000 to establish a new Elder Abuse Capability Development program, giving family violence practitioners the tools and training to better identify and respond to elder abuse.

Delivered by Safe and Equal in partnership with Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria, the program will include new training modules and resources for specialist family violence services including practitioners working within The Orange Door network.

An additional $160,000 will go to Victoria’s eight Elder Abuse Prevention Networks, supporting initiatives across metropolitan and regional communities, with a strong focus on older women who are at greater risk.

The networks – which include Barwon Community Legal Service – lead local efforts to raise awareness and stop abuse before it starts, helping ensure all older Victorians can live safely and with dignity.

This investment supports the delivery of Our Equal State: Victoria’s Gender Equality Action Plan 2023–2027, which takes a gendered approach to preventing all forms of family violence, including elder abuse.

“We’re taking action to prevent and respond to elder abuse – with new training for frontline workers and support for local prevention networks, so every older Victorian can live with safety, dignity and respect,” Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt said.

Confidential help is available via the elder abuse helpline on 1300 368 821, the Victims of Crime Helpline at victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au or for emergencies, phone Triple Zero (000).