Shining a Light on Elder Abuse in Queensland

In addition to my daily electorate duties, I also serve on the Queensland Parliament’s Education, Arts and Communities Committee. Last week, our committee travelled to Cooktown and Hope Vale for public hearings on the Family Responsibilities Commission.

Our committee is also carrying out a very important inquiry into elder abuse in Queensland. Elder abuse is an issue that too often goes unnoticed, yet it has devastating impacts on some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Defined as a single or repeated act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress within a relationship of trust, elder abuse can take many forms. It includes physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as neglect.

The inquiry aims to uncover the true extent of elder abuse in Queensland, including the risk factors that make some older individuals more vulnerable, and the barriers preventing them from accessing help. We are also examining the effectiveness of current laws, policies, and support services, and looking at ways to improve how we respond to this issue.

The Hinchinbrook electorate has the highest aging population per capita compared to anywhere else in Queensland making this topic one that I feel very strongly about. Every Queenslander deserves to age with dignity and respect.

If you or someone you know has concerns about elder abuse, I encourage you to engage with the inquiry and share your experiences. For more information, please feel free to contact the committee secretariat directly by phone (07) 3553 6623, or email eacc@parliament.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, you can visit the Queensland Parliament website.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook