The Tasmanian Government is committed to ensuring that older Tasmanians are respected, protected and cared for in our community.
It is the responsibility of everyone in the community to look out for our older neighbours, friends and relatives.
Today, on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a new campaign has been launched to further raise awareness of elder abuse and encourage Tasmanians to act on it. The campaign will feature on television, radio, in print and across a number of digital platforms.
The new campaign is based on the message “It’s ok to ask the question,” which encourages contact with the Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline to talk about situations of concern and gain professional and confidential advice.
The aim of the campaign is to ask all Tasmanians to be mindful of interactions with older members of the community and call the Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline to ask questions about elder abuse – whether you know someone who you think may be being harmed, neglected or abused, or you are being abused, or even if you think that your actions may be causing harm to an older person.
The campaign was identified as a key action from the Respect and Protect Older Tasmanians – Tasmania’s Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy 2019 – 2022, with the Government committing $850,000 from the 2019–20 Tasmanian Budget to implement it.
Anyone who wants to know more, seek advice or think they are experiencing elder abuse can call the Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline on 1800 441 169.
More information can be found at: www.elderabuse.tas.gov.au