Safety as you get older

Information and resources to help you stay safe as you get older.

Elder abuse 

Elder abuse is any type of abuse directed at an older person, including:

  • neglect
  • physical abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • financial abuse
  • emotional abuse
  • verbal abuse
  • social abuse.

It can be a single or repeated act that causes harm and fear in a relationship with someone you trust. Find about the different types of family and domestic violence.

Information in your language

You can find translated factsheets about elder abuse on the Australian Human Rights Commission website. They may help you identify if you’re experiencing family and domestic violence.

How to find help for elder abuse

There’s support available to help if you, or someone you know, is experiencing elder abuse.

  • 1800 ELDERHelp

    You can get information and advice about elder abuse from your state or territory service.
  • Compass

    If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, find providers that can help.
  • Making a complaint

    You can complain to the Aged Care and Safety Commission if you suspect a provider of elder abuse.

Find out more about supporting someone experiencing elder abuse.

Home safety

Staying safe at home includes both:

  • making sure your home is secure
  • changing your home so you can move around safely as you get older.

Find help to make your home safe. These links will take you away from myGov.

  • Safety and security

    Find out what you can do to help keep your home safe and secure on the Your Home website.
  • Carer Gateway - At home

    Find out how to help make the home of the person you care for safe on the Carer Gateway website.

Online safety

It’s important to know how to use the internet safely and protect yourself online. If you don’t feel confident using the internet and digital devices, you can be more vulnerable to online threats like scams or tricks.

There are resources available to help you stay safe online and build your confidence and skills in using the internet and digital devices. Some of these links will take you away from myGov.


Page last updated: 18 June 2024