With World Elder Abuse Awareness Day falling this Sunday, 15 June, Victoria Police is encouraging older Victorians—and those around them—to speak up if they’re experiencing or witnessing elder abuse.
Senior Constable Kim McKeown, from the Sunbury Proactive Policing Unit (PPU), recently addressed a local Country Women’s Association (CWA) group as part of her community outreach work, using the opportunity to raise a difficult but vital topic: elder abuse.
“I was recently asked to give a talk at the CWA on crime prevention,” McKeown said.
“When I was getting ready for the talk, I asked if they’d mind if I spoke about elder abuse. It can be a tough topic to talk to older people about, often because it’s committed by a family member.”
While physical assault is the most commonly reported form, elder abuse can also involve neglect, financial exploitation, psychological harm, or emotional manipulation—often by someone in a position of trust.
“Many of the examples and situations I mentioned resonated with a lot of the women, whether it was their own situation or friends of theirs,” McKeown said.
“Sadly, though, a couple of them said things like, ‘Oh well, it’s too late to do anything now.’ That’s the mindset we want to change. It’s never too late to come to us for assistance if you think you are the victim of any crime.”
Victoria Police is now partnering with the aged care sector in a new state-wide initiative—the first of its kind in Australia—designed to empower seniors and improve access to support. The initiative involves joint efforts by local police, Victoria Police’s Priority and Safer Communities Division, Family Violence Command, and Elder Rights Advocacy to provide education and build trust within aged care facilities.
Acting Superintendent Neil Herbert, from Victoria Police’s Family Violence Command, said the impact of elder abuse is devastating and widespread.
“Police unfortunately see the devastating impact of elder abuse every day – with the crime often carried out at the hands of someone the victim should be able to trust such as a family member, friend or even a paid carer,” he said.
“The physical abuse perpetrated against older people – such as hitting, kicking or pushing – is unacceptable and needs to stop. Abuse is never the answer and this is a crime.
“We encourage Victorians to recognise the signs of elder abuse and make a report to police if they know or suspect it’s occurring.
“The more we know – the more we can do something about it and keep older people safe.”
New data from the Crime Statistics Agency reveals an 18 per cent increase in elder abuse reports involving victims aged over 65 in the year to December 2024.
Police say the message this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is simple: everyone deserves to feel safe—regardless of age.
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse:
- In an emergency: Call Triple Zero (000)
- For confidential support and advice: Contact Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821 or visit seniorsrights.org.au
- To report anonymously: Visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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