Resource the development and delivery of information on family violence for older people

The Department of Health and Human Services is working to ensure senior Victorians have access to information and support relating to family violence and elder abuse, promoting the empowerment of older people. The following resources have been developed:

• Seniors online – Contains a range of information and referrals to further information sources and support.
• Seniors Card Magazine – The 2016 and 2017 editions included articles on elder abuse, the Royal Commission into Family Violence, and powers of attorney. The print magazine was sent to 591,000 households in 2016 and 725,000 households in 2017, while the e-Magazine was distributed to a further 188,000 card holders in 2016 and 264,000 card holders in 2017. The online magazine is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect service enhancements and policy developments.
• Seniors Festival Program – Information describing elder abuse, including the dedicated helpline phone number, was included in the Seniors Festival program in 2016 and 2017, with a total of 220,000 programs distributed statewide between July and October 2016 and another 220,000 programs distributed in 2017. These were distributed via mailout and at Coles stores, local councils, neighbourhood houses, and local libraries.
• Seniors Card e-Newsletter – The December 2016 edition was sent to over 200,000 Senior Card holders and featured an article on the appointment of the Commissioner for Senior Victorians as Ambassador for Elder Abuse Prevention. The June 2017 edition was sent to 220,000 card holders and included an article about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which occurred on 15 June 2017.

While this recommendation has been implemented, work will continue to ensure that older people are included in our efforts to address family violence-related matters.