Sunbury residents are being encouraged to help challenge elder abuse and ageism as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is marked on Tuesday 15 June.
The United Nations-recognised day highlights the mistreatment, neglect and harm experienced by some older people, with Victorian organisations calling for greater community awareness and action.
Seniors Rights Victoria and COTA Victoria (Council on the Ageing) say ageism remains a major but often hidden driver of elder abuse, shaping how older people are valued and treated.
Their “Beyond Age” campaign, now in its second year, invites people to reflect on ageing by pairing past and present photos and sharing personal advice to their younger selves. The stories are turned into digital displays for an online exhibition linked to the awareness day.
“Ageism impacts how society perceives the worth of an older person, and can lead to their abuse and mistreatment,” said Seniors Rights Victoria and COTA Victoria CEO Ben Rogers.
He said the project aims to prompt honest conversations about ageing and highlight shared experiences across generations.
Organisers are urging communities to take part in the initiative around 15 June and to speak openly about elder abuse.
Support is available in Victoria via Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821, and nationally through 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374).