A new campaign aimed at tackling elder abuse will begin screening throughout Tasmania this evening, the Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor, announced today.

The Elder Abuse is Not Okay campaign is designed to send a clear message that the abuse of older Tasmanians will not be tolerated.

"Elder abuse can take many forms - be it physical, emotional or financial - and many don't understand what it can involve, or how to address it," she said.

"Often the perpetrator is someone close to the person, like a trusted family member.

"Through this campaign ,we want people to get a better understanding of the issue, encourage them to talk about it openly and, most importantly, take action to help stamp this problem out."

Ms O'Connor said the Elder Abuse is Not Okay campaign would involve television and newspaper ads, along with online advertisements and posters.

"It's estimated between 2,400 and 4,000 older Tasmanians suffer abuse, and this campaign forms part of a broader suite of measures to address this issue - including the recently-launched Elder Abuse Prevention Helpline, and policy guidelines for all DHHS staff on how to respond to suspected cases of elder abuse," she said.

"This campaign will ensure the problem of elder abuse is well exposed to audiences right around the state."

The community awareness campaign is a central part of Protecting Older Tasmanians from Abuse: Tasmania's Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy.

Ms O'Connor encouraged anyone concerned about suspected elder abuse to call the Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline on 1800 441 169 for confidential advice and information on its prevention.

For further information on the Government's Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy visit www.elderabuse.tas.gov.au.