Guiding action on elder abuse
Compass is a website created to help all of us better understand, prevent and respond to the complex issue of elder abuse.
Recognise the signs of elder abuse and how to respond.
Learn about the risk factors and warning signs of abuse, plus how you can prevent abuse from happening and how to respond when it occurs.
Understanding elder abuse starts by defining what it is
The abuse of older people is complex and can be hard to identify. It can be financial, psychological, physical, sexual, or neglect.
Discover the steps you can take to help prevent elder abuse
If you’re concerned about yourself or another person's vulnerability to elder abuse, here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Experiencing elder abuse and don't know what to do?
There are services you can turn to, things you can do and resources you can access. Help starts here on Compass.
Find help that's designed for you
Start your journey on Compass with tailored articles that tackle the issues you're facing, plus curated resources and links to services with experts to meet your individual needs.
Older person
This a great place to start to find help and support with articles tailored to your needs and stage of life.
Family & Friend
Discover helpful articles to help you navigate the journey of supporting an older family member or friend as they age.
Carer
Find helpful articles and support to help you navigate being a carer for an older person.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Discover practical articles for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to recognise, prevent and respond to abuse in all its forms.
Multicultural person
Older people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds can be particularly vulnerable to elder abuse. Find helpful articles that discuss relevant issues and how you can find support.
LGBTQIA+ person
Older LGBTQIA+ people often have to navigate unique factors in recognising, preventing and responding to abuse. This page brings together helpful articles to make this process easier.
All Compass articles are available in multiple languages
New from Compass
Each month Compass publishers new articles on a range of key topics. Check out our latest articles below.
Sexual abuse – what it is and how to stop it
Sexual elder abuse is a criminal act, and it doesn’t always involve physical contact. Learn what to watch for and where to get help.
Support or surveillance? Tracking technologies and older people
The new tracking and monitoring technologies can support older people’s safety and security, but they can also be used for control or privacy invasion.
What is a family agreement?
A family agreement is an arrangement between an older person and someone else regarding care and living arrangements.
CALL 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374)
This free number will redirect you to an existing phone service near you. This is not a 24-hour line. Call operating times will vary. A collaboration between the Australian, state and territory governments.