Greater Shepparton City Council is pleased to once again be partnering with Victoria Police and Elder Rights Australia for an upcoming Stronger Together, Shepparton Community Forum.
Stronger Together, which began in 2024 as a forum for older members of the community, advocates, age care workers, and carers, will discuss individuals' rights in aged care, victim support, recognising and reporting elder abuse, and scams and cyber safety.
This year's event will be held on Tuesday 17 November 2026 at Riverlink's Eastbank and will run from 10am until 2.30pm. The event will have presentations from Elder Rights Australia, Victoria Police, Junction Support Services - Victims Assistance Program, Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, Crime Stoppers Victoria, Department of Government Services (seniors' cyber safety), as well as local community organisations.
The event aims to teach individuals how to recognise and report elder abuse, while empowering attendees with the knowledge of how to access support and services, while building their confidence to speak up if they ever experience abuse.
The forum will also feature a panel discussion around how individuals can work together to safeguard and empower older Victorians. Those attending will also have an opportunity to network with the organisations and staff, giving participants a chance to meet new people, ask questions and further explore the topics discussed throughout the day.
Mayor, Councillor Geoff Akers encouraged community members to attend the forum, acknowledging the positive impact these discussions can have on the community.
"Having events like this in Greater Shepparton is incredibly important. Stronger Together not only gives older residents access to valuable information and support, but also provides carers, families and aged care staff with resources that can help improve the wellbeing and safety of our community," he said.
Stronger Together Shepparton has been supported by the Victorian Government's Free From Violence Local Government Program, Greater Shepparton City Council and Greater Shepparton Foundation.
The event is free to attend, and light refreshments will be provided. To register for the event please visit the event web page or call 03 5832 9433.
