- New initiative announced during Harmony Week to raise awareness of elder abuse in culturally and linguistically diverse communities
- Part of the Cook Government's $4 million funding commitment to Legal Aid WA to deliver Elder Rights WA
- Older people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities are more likely to experience elder abuse
The Cook Government is committed to addressing elder abuse, with a new initiative aimed at supporting victims from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
The 'Perceptions of Elder Abuse in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities' initiative will develop a suite of culturally appropriate elder abuse resources and training materials to boost awareness of the issue and provide support.
Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch announced the program during 2024 Harmony Week, which brings together Australians from all different backgrounds to celebrate inclusiveness and diversity.
Older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds have long been identified as one of the groups that know the least about elder abuse, and who experience abuse at a greater rate.
The program is a collaboration between Elders Rights WA and Umbrella Multicultural Community Care Services Inc, through funding provided by the Cook Government.
In 2021, the State Government announced $4 million in funding over four years to Legal Aid WA through a Memorandum of Understanding to establish Elder Rights WA.
The 'Perceptions of Elder Abuse in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities' is the latest initiative to be delivered through the $4 million State Government funding.
Elders Rights WA is a statewide wraparound service providing legal advice and support to older Western Australians experiencing elder abuse.
One of their key objectives, in line with the 'WA Strategy to Respond to Abuse of Older People (Elder Abuse) 2019-2029' is to raise public awareness to help put an end to elder abuse.
Elder abuse affects many older Western Australians and may involve financial, social, physical, sexual, psychological, and emotional abuse.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing elder abuse, please contact the WA Elder Abuse Helpline and Information Service on 1300 724 679 or the National Elder Abuse number on 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374).
As stated by Minister for Seniors and Ageing Don Punch:
"Sadly, Elder Abuse affects 1 on 6 older Western Australians and is more prevalent for older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
"I'm proud that the Cook Government is investing $1.9 million annually in initiatives and support services to help put an end to this issue.
"This new initiative aimed at older Western Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse communities will go a long way in addressing the issue of elder abuse and providing support for victims.
"Everyone has the right to feel safe and to be treated with dignity and respect in their community."
