There are some simple steps you can take to minimise your own risk of abuse
- know your rights (including your right to make your own decisions)
- stay on top of your financial affairs and inform as many trusted people as possible of your wishes. A qualified financial adviser can provide confidential advice (see resources below)
- keep in touch with family and friends and stay active in your community
- increase your online confidence and skills (see resources below)
- plan ahead and write down what you want to happen.
How can you help to protect others?
Listening is an extraordinarily effective approach to protecting others. The voices of older people often remain unheard and their stories are frequently dismissed as ‘unreliable’, especially older people who live with dementia or other cognitive conditions.
Documents and external links
Learn more about how to protect yourself. These documents and websites offer help, strategies, and practical information. Brief descriptions are provided for each document or link.
Steps I can take to protect myself
Read the resources on the Compass website to understand the steps you can take to minimise the risk of abuse and keep your independence.
Steps I can take for others
Read the Compass website for guidance and resources on the key steps you can take to reduce and minimise their exposure to risk.
Moneysmart
Free tips, tools and resources to help you take control of your money and make informed decisions.
Scamwatch
Scamwatch is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). It provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams. The website has publications, videos and other resources to assist in understanding and preventing harm from scams.
Be Connected initiative
The Australia’s eSafety Commission’s Be Connected initiative increases the confidence, skills and online safety of older people.
