This research project was commissioned to explore professional development opportunities for aged care advocates, as well as the skills, competencies and training required to work effectively in the role.

OPAN and other services targeting elder abuse operate in a changing landscape that has seen elder abuse gain increasing policy attention, community awareness and dedicated resourcing. Significant movement on a number of major initiatives has occurred in the last two years.

This widely endorsed report sets out an agenda that the community sector has articulated as a set of priorities that need to be embraced by policy-makers and governments to effectively reduce the risk of elder abuse in Australian society whilst also supporting those affected.

Evaluation of OPAN’s existing advocacy, education and information regarding elder abuse, informing planning for its future work on this issue, and whether or not a national approach is required, is occurring at a critical time.