News
16 January, 2025
Elder abuse on the rise
A joint report into Elder Abuse, by the Queensland Government and Uniting Care, has revealed the urgency for an inquiry, Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services, Amanda Camm, said.
The Elder Abuse Statistics In Queensland Year in Review found 4,458 phone calls were made to the Elder Abuse Helpline in 2023-24, with 2,674 notifications of abuse.
The report recommended further research into social abuse, which is a form of coercive control that can be used as means to facilitate, maintain or hide other forms of abuse.
Social abuse increased in 2023-24 by 7 per cent while neglect of older people increased by 24 per cent.
Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services Amanda Camm said the inquiry will shine a light on the mistreatment of some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
“This report highlights year-on-year increases in reports of abuse,” Minister Camm said.
“The State Government is acting now, by setting up a Parliamentary Inquiry, which will help shine a light on the nature and extent of elder abuse, how we are reporting and responding to elder abuse and where we can improve.
“All Queenslanders have a role to play in preventing elder abuse including families, communities, service providers and all levels of government.
“Increasing our understanding of elder abuse and boosting community awareness is vital to stopping the abuse.”
Minister Camm said the report highlights the fact that elder abuse is currently under reported in Queensland.
“We know six in 10 older people who experience abuse will likely not seek help from a professional source, but instead seek advice from family or friends,” Minister Camm said.
“This inquiry will also help increase awareness right across Queensland, as we work towards better protecting some of the most vulnerable in our communities.”
The inquiry is in addition to the State Government’s Residential Care reforms to set-up a 24-hour dual-carer model and inquiry into DVConnect.
“These reforms are about finding gaps in the system, so we can better protect the most vulnerable in our community,” Minister Camm said.
“We are committed to a safer community for all.”
Suspected cases of Elder Abuse can be reported via www.qld.gov.au/stopelderabuse or call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192.
