The federal government has launched a new campaign targeting elder abuse, with senior citizens being the main focus. The initiative aims to prevent the thousands of cases that occur each year, especially as the population continues to age.
A series of commercials has been introduced to address the alarming rates of elder abuse. Council on the Ageing Australia CEO, Patricia Sparrow, believes that cases are underreported, making it essential to raise awareness on this issue.
The Albanese government will invest $4.8 million in this campaign to reach the estimated one in six older Australians experiencing elder abuse. Labor senator Jenny McAllister calls it a “scourge” and emphasizes the importance of having conversations to eliminate it.
Not all forms of elder abuse are physical, as emotional, financial, and psychological abuse are also common. As the population ages, the challenge of addressing elder abuse will only grow.
The government has postponed the release of the new Aged Care Act, which will outline the rights of Australians in aged care. Legislation is expected before Christmas, with a commencement date of July next year. Additionally, a new hotline, 1800 ELDER HELP (1800 353 374), has been established to assist those in need.