If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, the first step is to call the WA Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 724 679 available Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
If you speak a language other than English, assistance can be arranged via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450 or Aboriginal Interpreting WA (AIWA) on 1800 330 331.
Please note, client confidentiality will be maintained unless there is a real or perceived danger to the individual or community. In this case, information may need to be disclosed for safety reasons.
During weekends, if the situation is urgent, please contact one of the crisis lines listed below.
What to expect when you call us
When you reach out for support, we’re here to listen and guide you through the process at your own pace. Our advocates ensure you feel heard, respected and in control of any steps you choose to take. Here’s what you can expect:
- You speak with a knowledgeable and experienced advocate who listens to you carefully to understand the situation.
- The conversation is kept entirely confidential. You can speak to us anonymously if you prefer.
- We respect your consent. We do not intervene or act without your permission.
- We help you explore options to address the issue(s) you are facing.
- If you ask us, we support you in having important conversations or taking necessary actions apart from family mediation.
- We can refer you to free legal services and other helpful supports.
- You receive valuable information and useful resources tailored to your needs.
Are you calling about someone else?
Elder abuse is a community issue requiring collective action. By recognising the signs and taking steps to stop it, we can help each other create safer and more supportive communities.
When you call, we discuss your concerns broadly and provide general advice and support. However, we cannot take action or intervene on behalf of the older person without their involvement and express consent.
Whether you’re calling for yourself or someone else, you don’t need to feel alone or worried about reaching out. You’ll be in safe hands where your information is treated confidentially. Our services are free, unbiased and designed to help you explore the best options for your situation.
Useful links and contacts
If you need urgent assistance with an elder abuse matter over the weekend, please call one of the following crises support services for immediate help.
Police
Call 000 in an emergency
Lifeline Australia
24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
Crisis support and suicide prevention services to people experiencing emotional distress.
1800 RESPECT
24-hours a day, 7 days a week
National domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.
Mental Health Emergency Response Line
Call 1300 555 788 (Metro)
Call 1800 676 822 (Peel)
Call 1800 552 002 (Country)
24-hours a day, 7 days a week
MensLine Australia
MensLine website www.mensline.org.au
Daisy app
App developed by 1800RESPECT to connect people experiencing violence or abuse to services in their local area. Daisy can be downloaded for free from iTunes or Google Play.
Need more information?
Take a look at our helpful information, tools and resources.
Helpful information
Locate guides, fact sheets, and brochures to share with family and supporters. See our helpful information
Useful Organisations
Discover the organisations Advocare works with who provide support to older people.? See our useful organisations directory
Glossary of Terms
Get help understanding aged care jargon. See our glossary of terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered elder abuse in Australia?
The abuse of older people, also known as elder abuse, is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person. This type of violence constitutes a violation of human rights and includes:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Psychological and emotional abuse
- Financial and material abuse
- Abandonment
- Neglect
- Serious loss of dignity and respect.
What are the signs of financial elder abuse?
There are many signs of potential elder abuse. Some might include:
- Unexplained disappearance of belongings;
- Unexpected bills or the inability to pay bills
- Significant bank withdrawals
- Changes to wills
- Inability of an older person to access their bank accounts or statements
- An empty fridge
- Lack of money to pay for essentials, such as food, clothing and utilities.
What legal protections are available for victims of elder abuse in Australia?
Legal protections for affected individuals can include intervention orders, guardianship orders and financial management orders. Victims can seek assistance through legal aid services, community legal centres and law practitioners who specialise in older people’s rights.
What should I do if I suspect an older person is being abused?
If you suspect elder abuse, listen carefully to the older person, document any evidence, and encourage them to call the WA Elder Abuse Helpline at 1300 724 679. You can also contact us directly for information and guidance on how to support them. If you believe the person is in immediate danger, please reach out to one of the crisis lines mentioned in this article.
What support services are available for elder abuse victims in Australia?
Support services for elder abuse victims in Australia include:
- Helplines
- Advocacy services
- Legal aid
- Counselling
- Health services
- Community organisations supporting the needs of older people.
Please call Advocare on 1800 700 600 for more information.
How can communities help prevent and address elder abuse?
Communities play a vital role in preventing and addressing elder abuse by promoting awareness and the understanding of what it is, recognising the signs, and learning how to support those affected while ensuring their safety. Encouraging social inclusion, challenging ageist attitudes, establishing a culture of respect and dignity, and developing support networks are all ideals that need to be put into practice to strengthen community efforts.
Start by calling Advocare on 1800 700 600 for information and assistance or to organise an information session for community members. You can also download our helpful snapshot here Resource Link
Meet some of the people we support
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