The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has acknowledged World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today with events across the state, aimed at raising awareness of ways to support and safeguard older Queenslanders.
Held annually on 15 June, the day is an opportunity for communities to stand together against the mistreatment, neglect, and abuse of older people.
Elder abuse occurs when an older person is harmed by someone they trust and can take many forms, including neglect or emotional, psychological, financial, physical, or sexual abuse.
To help educate the public on this important issue, the QPS Disability and Elder Abuse Team (DEAT) hosted a free community activation in Brisbane's Queen Street Mall featuring giant games, goodie bags, and cupcakes.
Meanwhile, Logan District Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit (DFV&VPU), supported by South Brisbane District and Cleveland Police Bike Squad, treated local senior aged care residents to scenic rides along the Raby Bay foreshore, piloted by volunteers from Cycling Without Age.
Community support services joined the event to offer resources, information, and assistance to attendees.
Acting Superintendent Bernie Quinlan, Domestic Family Violence and Community Engagement Group, emphasised the importance of these initiatives in raising awareness when addressing the hidden issue of elder abuse.
"Elder abuse is a hidden issue that affects some of our most vulnerable community members," Acting Superintendent Quinlan said.
"Through events like this, we can bring the issue to light, start meaningful conversations, and ensure older Queenslanders feel respected, valued, and supported."
Elder abuse remains a significant concern in Queensland, with psychological and financial abuse being the most prevalent forms.
Unfortunately, the most common perpetrator of elder abuse is a family member, such as a spouse, adult child, or grandchild, and account for approximately 80% of reported cases.
Despite its prevalence, elder abuse is vastly under-reported, with older people often reluctant to speak out due to fear, shame, or a desire to protect family members.
"World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a reminder that safeguarding the wellbeing of older Queenslanders is a shared responsibility," Acting Superintendent Quinlan said.
"No one deserves to be treated this way, and everyone deserves to feel safe."
Elder abuse can include unwanted sexual behaviour, assault, threats to harm pets, financial exploitation, and neglect of basic needs.
Signs of elder abuse include fear, withdrawal, unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, financial stress, or sudden changes in social behaviour.
The Elder Abuse Helpline offers free and confidential support and can be reached on 1300 651 192 in Queensland or (07) 3867 2525 from outside the state.
To learn more about elder abuse and how to recognise and prevent it, visit www.police.qld.gov.au/domestic-violence/elder-abuse.
Together, we can create a Queensland where every individual feels safe, valued, and connected.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, report it to police at www.police.qld.gov.au/domestic-violence and reach out to support services.
If domestic violence is occurring now and someone is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
For all other DFV-related matters, phone police on 131 444, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:
- DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636
- 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- Diverse Voices: 1800 184 527
- Elder Abuse Helpline: 1300 651 192
Further information and local support service contact details are available at www.qld.gov.au/need-to-know.
