The abuse and mistreatment of older people (sometimes referred to as ‘elder abuse’) is prevalent in Australia. The abuse and mistreatment of older people is a complex health, justice, social and economic issue. It can have devasting consequences for the physical, mental, financial, social and emotional wellbeing of older people, their families and communities.

This plan takes a broad approach to ending the abuse and mistreatment of older people wherever it occurs in society. The plan builds on the foundations and progress made under the first National plan to respond to the abuse of older Australians (elder abuse) 2019–2023.

The plan outlines six key principles that underpin the plan as a whole, along with four focus areas which will guide work over the life of the plan. The priority actions in each focus area will inform the more detailed activities contained in the two five-year action plans.

There are six commonly recognised forms of abuse and mistreatment of older people:

• physical abuse
• sexual abuse
• psychological or emotional
• financial abuse
• neglect
• cultural or spiritual abuse.

Key principles

1. Taking a human rights approach
2. Ending ageism
3. Listening to and learning from the experiences of older people and diverse communities
4. A strong focus on prevention and early intervention
5. Supporting individual decision-making, autonomy and dignity
6. A person-centred and trauma-informed response.

The plan is provided with an Easy Read version.