The Victorian Government has launched a new framework designed to help councils, health services and community organisations prevent elder abuse before it occurs.
Released to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Respecting and Valuing Older People: Victoria’s Primary Prevention of Elder Abuse Framework Handbook provides practical guidance to address the underlying causes of elder abuse, which affects an estimated one in six older Australians.
The framework focuses on four priority areas:
- Respect – challenging ageist stereotypes and assumptions about older people
- Intergenerational connection – fostering positive relationships between younger and older generations
- Inclusion – ensuring older Victorians are seen, heard and valued
- Gender equality – addressing factors that place older women at greater risk of abuse
Backed by a $6 million investment from the Victorian Government, the initiative forms part of the Until Every Victorian is Safe: Third Rolling Action Plan to End Family and Sexual Violence 2025-27.
The handbook is the first stage of the state’s primary prevention approach, with a practice guide and additional implementation resources expected later in 2026.
Victorian Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt, said, “Older Victorians have given so much to our communities – they deserve to live free from fear, neglect and abuse,” Stitt said.
“This handbook gives organisations practical tools to challenge ageism, strengthen inclusion and address the factors that contribute to elder abuse before it occurs.”
Victorian Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Melissa Horne, said prevention was critical to improving outcomes for older people.
“No one should face violence at any stage of their life – this framework is a crucial step in making sure older Victorians get the protection and respect they deserve,” Horne said.
More information, including the framework handbook, is available through the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
