Murrumba says ‘there’s no excuse for elder abuse’

Seniors in Murrumba will be better protected against elder abuse, as the Palaszczuk Government takes action to target the growing issue in Queensland.

The Palaszczuk Government launched the ‘There’s no excuse for elder abuse’ campaign at Parliament House, to create awareness around the unacceptable behaviour and ways it could be addressed.

All too often, older people are becoming vulnerable to elder abuse, and our research shows in many cases this abuse has been committed by a family member. Sadly, older people can be vulnerable to abuse, with more than 1350 new elder abuse notifications in Queensland in 2015 – up from around 1280 in the previous year. This increase in reported cases shows that more people are coming forward, but we know many incidents still go unreported.

That is why we have stepped up the fight against elder abuse and I am encouraging family members, friends, and neighbours in the Murrumba community to come forward.

Seniors Minister Coralee O’Rourke said the most common forms of elder abuse were physical or emotional intimidation, financial abuse such as bank skimming, and transfer of assets.

“This campaign makes it absolutely clear there is never an excuse for elder abuse, by highlighting the types of excuses perpetrators commonly use and what actions the community can take to prevent it,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“It was developed after a key recommendation from the landmark Not Now, Now Ever report highlighted the growing need for government to step up the fight against elder abuse.”

“Throughout June, this important campaign will be promoted in shopping centres, licensed venues and medical centres, on buses, and via digital and social media advertising – to ensure everyone sees the message.”

“Older people are valuable members of our communities, and our Government will not tolerate any form of elder abuse.”

Seniors services, non-government organisations, councils, libraries, hospitals and more will receive posters and help-cards to raise awareness of elder abuse among their clients and connect them to the range of supports and services across the state.

People who are concerned that an elderly person is being abused and in need of assistance can call the Elder Abuse helpline on 1300 651 192.

For more information about the campaign, visit www.qld.gov.au/notnownotever