15 June marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day ? a critical reminder for those of us working in aged and community care that our duty of care extends beyond compliance and policy. It?s about protecting the rights, dignity, and safety of older Australians ? in our services and within their families.

The most recent prevalence study tells a sobering story: 14.8% of older people in Australia have experienced at least one form of elder abuse in the past year. But as those of us working on the ground know, the reality is often far more insidious than the statistics convey.

Elder abuse isn't always visible. It doesn't always involve bruises or theft. It can look like silent coercion, chronic neglect, social isolation, or subtle control. And it doesn?t always come from strangers. More often, it's carried out by someone the older person knows and trusts ? a child, a partner, or even a caregiver.

As a workplace investigator and employment lawyer, I?ve seen both sides ? the heartbreak of older people harmed by those meant to care for them, and the emotional and physical toll on care workers stretched beyond capacity, unsupported, or undertrained. I?ve also seen the grief and guilt families carry when dynamics break down and lines blur between support and control.

In my own family, I?ve witnessed how complicated these relationships can be ? love, obligation, exhaustion, and intergenerational trauma are often woven together. That?s why we can?t reduce elder abuse to a checklist. We must listen with curiosity, notice the subtle signs, and intervene early ? with courage, compassion, and consistency.

So, what can aged and community care providers do?

Embed a Culture of Respect and Safeguarding

Start with strong values-based leadership and staff training that goes beyond mandatory modules. Abuse prevention starts with knowing what healthy relationships look like ? for clients and colleagues.

Support and Equip Your Team

Care workers often witness or suspect abuse before anyone else does ? but fear, confusion, or burnout can silence their voice. Give your staff the tools, time, and psychological safety to raise concerns confidently.

Improve Incident Response Pathways

Have clear, trauma-informed processes for responding to suspected elder abuse. Ensure your complaint and whistleblower systems are accessible and taken seriously.

Build Bridges with Families, Not Walls

Complex family dynamics need sensitive navigation. Facilitate difficult conversations, offer mediation or support services, and set boundaries that prioritise the older person?s wishes and safety.

Look Beyond Compliance

Compliance with the Aged Care Quality Standards is the floor ? not the ceiling. True safeguarding requires daily vigilance, relational trust, and leadership that isn?t afraid to ask tough questions.

Today, and every day, we can take a stand against the abuse, mistreatment and neglect of older people. Because when we protect our elders, we protect the heart of our communities.

? Learn more about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD): https://elderabuseawarenessday.org.au

? If you experience or suspect elder abuse, call 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374)

? In an emergency, always call 000

If you're concerned about the care received in a government-funded aged care service, raise a complaint with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission:

? 1800 951 822

?? GPO Box 9819, in your capital city

?? https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/contact-us/complaints-concerns/make-complaint