Tasmania the Only State Without Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy
www.tas.greens.org.au
The Tasmanian Greens today committed to bring Tasmania into line with all other Australian States which have implemented whole-of-government strategies to prevent the physical, emotional and financial abuse of vulnerable elderly people, with a $500 000 Elder Abuse Prevention strategy.
Greens Health and Human Services spokesperson Cassy O’Connor MP said elderly Tasmanians deserve the same level of protection as the elderly in other Australian states.
“It’s estimated that, each year, there are about 3 000 – 4 000 Tasmanians over the age of 65 who are experiencing physical, emotional and/or financial abuse – many in their own homes – and that number is expected to double within decade unless action is taken,” Ms O’Connor said.
“Elder abuse is a matter of urgent social concern, as it affects the most vulnerable in our community and can restrict their capacity to lead healthy, engaged lives as senior members of our society who have a whole lot to give.”
“The Greens will fund a $500 000 Elder Abuse Prevention strategy that develops a whole-of-government approach to combating the problem; establishes a new Office of Seniors’ Support within DHHS; initiates an extensive statewide review to determine the extent of the problem; and establishes the framework for legislative review and a community education and support program.”
“The Office of Seniors’ Support will provide a centralised contact point for Tasmanians needing support as well as advice on elder abuse matters, and advice on legal and financial matters. The Office would also have a key role to play in raising community awareness of elder abuse, in order to help friends, family and care workers identify suspected cases of abuse of these vulnerable Tasmanians.”
“Advocacy groups have also identified the need for legislative review to strengthen laws protecting the elderly, and those concerned individuals and organisations who report suspected cases of elder abuse.”
“Laws governing Power of Attorney, Guardianship, Family Violence and whistleblowers will be examined to identify how they can be strengthened to prevent elder abuse and protect vulnerable Tasmanians. This process would be undertaken and a review report delivered within eighteen months.”
“This issue goes to the heart of any genuine social inclusion agenda, as many Tasmanians who are experiencing the trauma of elder abuse must be feeling forgotten by their community and by government.”
“There is no justification for allowing the current situation and complete absence of policy to continue.”
“The challenge now goes out to both the Bartlett Government and the State Opposition to also commit to a comprehensive elder abuse strategy.”
“Despite the fact that Labor in government in Tasmania has ignored the problem and the terrible injustice it perpetuates for the past eleven years, this is an issue which should have tripartisan support,” Ms O’Connor said.
Attached: Elder Abuse Prevention: Protecting Vulnerable Tasmanians, Greens Policy Initiative launched by Cassy O’Connor MP, 30 November 2009.
Nov30_Elder Abuse Policy_C OConnor_ATTACH.pdf
Cassy O’Connor MP Greens Health and Human Services spokesperson
