CONFERENCE WRAPS UP WITH STRONG CALLS FOR ACTION

Elder Abuse Action Australia (EAAA) and Turn Up The Volume! conference co-host Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) have declared the event a resounding success.   

The conference held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from 22-24 July, brought together experts, advocates and community members to address the critical issue of elder abuse, promoting a future where older Australians live with dignity and respect.  

Highlights and findings  

The conference featured a series of sessions, panels and keynote speeches highlighting the urgent need to tackle ageism and elder abuse. Highlights and findings across the two days will be unpacked and shared over the coming weeks. Some key topics raised include:  

• Amplifying the voices of older people – ensure we’re hearing these voices to shape policies and practices; hear them and believe them, particularly concerning sexual abuse  

• Addressing ageism – an ‘acceptable’ form of discrimination that must be tackled both through a change of policy and a change of mindset   

• Barriers to reporting – the issues of language can prevent older people from seeking help. For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people don’t use the word abuse so speaking about feelings is more helpful   

• Enhancing prevention – a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions and better frameworks for support  

• Strengthening legal frameworks – stronger legal protections and robust laws are required for older people  

• Community and cultural engagement – creating culturally safe spaces and engaging appropriately with diverse communities.  

Next steps and call to action  

The conference was a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in ending the abuse of older people.   

As the conference concluded, delegates were urged to continue their advocacy and efforts to combat the abuse of older people. EAAA Executive Officer Bev Lange and CEO of ARAS Carolanne Barkla called on participants to take the knowledge and inspiration gained from the conference back to their communities – “Let’s turn our discussions into actions and create real, lasting change!”.  

EAAA extends its gratitude to all speakers, sponsors and delegates for their contributions to the success of the conference.  

Download the full media release.