World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 15 June
Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, an opportunity for people right across Australia – and indeed the world – to better understand the prevalence and causes of abuse and neglect of older people.
The Albanese Government acknowledges that the abuse and mistreatment of older people is unacceptable.
Whether it be physical, psychological, sexual, financial, or another form of harm or neglect – the abuse and mistreatment of older people has devastating consequences and denies fundamental rights to safety, dignity and autonomy.
Elder abuse affects an estimated 1 in 6 older Australians, and those who experience it often do not seek help or advice.
Our government is working closely with state and territory governments to finalise and release a new National Plan to End the Abuse and Mistreatment of Older People. The National Plan will unite action by governments, the sector, and the community over the coming decade to prevent, respond and, over time, end the abuse and mistreatment of older people. The submissions made earlier this year in response to a consultation draft of the National Plan are being used to shape the final National Plan.
We are also commencing work on a national elder abuse prevention initiative, developing an evidence‑based framework which will support organisations, communities and families to uphold older people’s rights and prevent abuse and mistreatment. The framework will focus on practical prevention initiatives embedded in everyday settings to call out ageism, mistreatment, and abuse, and outline steps older people, families, friends and the community can take to raise concerns and seek advice and support.
This year on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we acknowledge the vital contribution of the people in our communities who work every day to raise awareness of, prevent, and respond to the abuse of older people.
Together, we must learn from their example and shape an age-friendly society where older people are safe, valued and heard, have their rights protected, and live free from abuse and mistreatment.
I urge all Australians to join in this commitment.
https://ministers.ag.gov.au/media-centre/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day-15-06-2025