Queenslanders are being urged to help prevent elder abuse in their communities by being alert to its signs and taking action to support older people who may be in abusive situations.
Communities Minister Tracy Davis said World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June) was an opportunity to encourage community action to address the abuse, and aligned with the Queensland Government’s election promise to revitalise frontline services for families.
“Elder abuse is any act within a relationship of trust which results in harm to an older person, with the most common forms being emotional abuse, financial abuse, physical abuse and neglect,” Ms Davis said.
“The Queensland Government’s strong plan to prevent elder abuse will result in a brighter future for all families across the state.
“During June, we are extending our Make the call domestic and family violence prevention campaign to include elder abuse, which sadly is a lesser recognised form of family violence.
“We want people to understand the signs of elder abuse and if it is happening to someone they know, to call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192 for advice about how to offer support and assistance.”
Ms Davis said a key campaign message was that anyone can make the call.
“The people affected by elder abuse are our mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, colleagues, neighbours and friends,” she said.
“Elder abuse is never acceptable and as a community, we all have a responsibility to Make the call if we know or suspect that older people are being abused.”
The Make the call campaign is supported by the Public Trustee, Queensland Rail, Queensland Police Service and Public Safety Business Agency, Heritage Bank, Clubs Queensland and Brisbane City Council.
For further information about elder abuse, as well as a calendar of community events and free resources to support awareness-raising activities, visit www.qld.gov.au/makethecall
You can also join the conversation about preventing elder abuse on www.facebook.com/make-the-call-now