How to Recognise Elder Abuse and Neglect in Australia
Spotting Elder Abuse Early Can Make All the Difference
Elder abuse is more widespread than most people realise, and it often happens quietly, within families, behind closed doors. Recognising the signs early can make a real difference. This guide covers what elder abuse and neglect look like, the current data on how common they are, and where to turn for support.
What Is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse is any act, or failure to act, that causes harm to an older person, usually by someone they trust — a family member, friend, professional or paid caregiver. It can take several forms, including psychological, financial and physical abuse, and neglect. Abuse can happen anywhere, including in a person’s own home, and often the person experiencing it, or even the person causing it, doesn’t recognise it as abuse.
Elder Abuse in Australia: The Data
1 in 6 Older Australians Around 1 in 6 people aged 65 and over (roughly 598,000 people) experienced elder abuse in the past year, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Psychological Abuse Is Most Common Psychological or emotional abuse is the most frequently reported form of elder abuse, ahead of financial abuse, physical abuse and neglect.
Family Members Are Often Involved 1 in 2 people who perpetrate elder abuse are a family member of the person experiencing it — making it a difficult and sensitive issue to raise.
Most People Don’t Seek Help Only around 1 in 3 people who experience elder abuse seek help from a third party, meaning many cases go unaddressed.
Recognising the Signs
Elder abuse can be difficult to spot, particularly when it involves a trusted family member. Signs can include:
- Unexplained changes in mood, withdrawal, or fearfulness around a particular person
- Sudden or unexplained financial changes, missing money or possessions
- Poor hygiene, weight loss, or untreated medical conditions (signs of neglect)
- Unexplained injuries or reluctance to be seen by a doctor
- Isolation from friends, family or usual community activities
Australia’s National Response
In March 2026, the Australian Government released the National Plan to End the Abuse and Mistreatment of Older People 2026–2036, setting out a 10-year vision to end elder abuse in all its forms. It builds on the earlier National Plan to Respond to the Abuse of Older Australians (2019–2023) and reflects growing recognition that, as Australia’s population ages, elder abuse prevention needs sustained, long-term action.
Where to Get Help
1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374) — the national elder abuse phone line, which redirects callers to the relevant service in their state or territory
South Australia Elder Abuse Prevention Phone Line (1800 372 310) — for concerns specific to South Australia
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (1800 951 822) — for concerns about someone receiving a government-funded aged care service
Emergency services (000) — for immediate danger or a life-threatening situation
These phone lines are not crisis services, and operating hours and services vary by state and territory.
How Senami Supports You in Southern Australia
Senami provides professional aged care and disability support services across South Australia, including in-home care and comfort support designed to protect the safety, dignity and wellbeing of older people.
We can help with:
- Providing safe, respectful in-home aged care and support services
- Recognising and responding appropriately if abuse or neglect is suspected
- Connecting families with the right helplines and support services
- Offering counselling support for older people and families affected by abuse
Concerned About Someone’s Safety or Care?
If you’re worried about an older person in your life, or want to explore safe, respectful aged care support, the Senami team is here to help.
Reach out to us today to discuss your situation in Australia.
This topic can be distressing to read about. If you or someone you know needs support, call 1800 ELDER Help on 1800 353 374, or 000 in an emergency.