Aged Care

‘Decade of neglect’ exposed in elder abuse statistics

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The alarming increase in elder abuse cases in Queensland has underscored the urgent need for a dedicated Parliamentary Inquiry, according to a new report jointly released by the Queensland Government and Uniting Care. The inquiry, part of the Crisafulli Government’s 100-day plan, seeks to address the systemic failures enabling such abuse.

The Elder Abuse Statistics in Queensland Year in Review report revealed troubling figures for 2023–24: 4,458 calls to the Elder Abuse Helpline and 2,674 formal notifications of abuse. Notably, social abuse—a coercive form of control—rose by 7%, while cases of neglect increased by 24%.

Related: New initiative targets underreported elder abuse

Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services Amanda Camm emphasised the inquiry’s importance in exposing and addressing elder abuse across the state.

“This report highlights the decade of neglect by the former Labor Government, with year-on-year increases in abuse reports and no substantial action taken,” Camm stated. “The Crisafulli Government is acting now to shine a light on the nature and extent of elder abuse and identify areas for improvement.”

The report also highlighted significant underreporting, with six in 10 victims of elder abuse opting not to seek help from professional services.

“We need to boost awareness and understanding across Queensland to stop this abuse,” said Minister Camm. “This inquiry will play a pivotal role in raising awareness and enhancing protections for some of the most vulnerable in our communities.”

The inquiry complements the Crisafulli Government’s broader reforms, including new residential care standards introducing a 24-hour dual-carer model and an inquiry into DVConnect services.

“These reforms aim to address systemic gaps left by the previous government and create a safer community for all,” Minister Camm added.

Queenslanders are encouraged to play an active role in preventing elder abuse by reporting suspected cases to the Elder Abuse Helpline or the dedicated online portal.

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

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