Support services 

There are a number of services in Australia that can support older people experiencing abuse of discrimination. We have listed them below and also include broader support services​

older persons advocacy network

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) is a national network comprised of nine state and territory organisations that have been successfully delivering advocacy, information and education services to older people in metropolitan, regional, rural and remote Australia for over 25 years. OPAN is funded by the Australian Government to deliver free services support older people and their representatives to address issues related to Commonwealth funded aged care services. Call OPAN 6am-10pm seven days week on: 1800 700 600 or web: https://opan.org.au/​

Contact details for local state and territory based services: 

Aged care QUALITY AND SAFETY COMMISSION

The role of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is to protect and enhance the safety, health, well-being and quality of life of people receiving aged care. The Commission independently accredits, assesses and monitors aged care services subsidised by the Australian Government. They also seek to resolve complaints about these services. Through their engagement and education work they aim to build confidence and trust in aged care, empower consumers, support providers to comply with quality standards, and promote best practice service provision.

1800 respect

The National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service (1800respect) was established to assist people affected by sexual assault, domestic or family violence to achieve recovery. The organisation provides a professional 24 hour telephone and online, crisis and trauma counselling service to anyone whose life has been impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence.

Mental health support 

Please know that you don't have to do it alone. If you need someone to talk to about you or an older person you love is experiencing there are great services out there - they are free, confidential and available 24 hours: 
  • beyondblue: provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live. Phone: 1300 22 4636 or web: beyondblue.org.au/
  • Lifeline: provides access to crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services. People call Lifeline’s 24 hour crisis support service about many things including: anxiety; depression; loneliness; abuse and trauma; physical or mental wellbeing; suicidal thoughts or attempts; stresses from work, family or society; or information for friends and family. Phone: 131114 or website: www.lifeline.org.au ​