World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Monday 15 June 2026

Today, Monday 15 June 2026, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

The idea that someone we love could be experiencing abuse at the hands of a person they trust is something most of us don't like to think about. But elder abuse is more common than many people realise, and the more we talk about it openly, the better chance we have of keeping our older community members safe.

So what exactly is elder abuse? It's any act, or failure to act, within a relationship where trust is expected, that causes harm or distress to an older person. It doesn't have to be physical. In fact, it often isn't.

Elder abuse comes in many forms and includes: 

• Financial abuse

• Psychological abuse

• Physical abuse

A lot of the time, the person causing the harm isn't a stranger. It might be a family member, a carer, or someone else the older person has welcomed into their life. That's what makes it so hard to talk about, and why so many cases go unreported.

If something doesn't feel right, trust that feeling.

You don't need proof to reach out for help. If you're worried about an older person in your life, or if you're an older person who isn't feeling safe, there are resources available that are free, confidential, and there to help. 

Elder Abuse Resources

Elder Abuse Prevention Unit (EAPU): Contact EAPU for advice and support on 1300 651 192 (9am-5pm, Monday-Friday)

Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: If the Elder is in residential care, report concerns to the Commission on 1800 951 182.

Support services: Contact organizations like Seniors Legal and Advocacy Service (SLAS) or Queensland Law Society's Elder Law Interest Group for advice.

Contact the Queensland Police: If the Elder is in immediate danger, call 000.

If someone is in immediate danger, always call 000.

Our People Our Community Our Health Our Way