Abuse and mistreatment can look different for people and families from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Cultural values and beliefs, including our own, shape how we see and respond to abuse.
Abuse in different cultural backgrounds is a complex and sensitive issue. If you have concerns, it is important to seek help. Call the Adult Safeguarding Unit on 1800 372 310 for confidential support and advice.
Abuse or mistreatment of people from an Aboriginal background
In Aboriginal culture, caring for and respecting older people and Elders is very important. Aboriginal people pass down life lessons, stories, histories, songs, and responsibilities.
The factsheet Elder abuse and people from an Aboriginal background explains that elder abuse is increasing in Aboriginal communities, especially financial abuse. It also outlines risk factors such as past trauma, health issues, money worries, and other challenges.
Elder abuse and people from an Aboriginal background (PDF 283.0 KB)
More information and services for Aboriginal people
Services and support for Aboriginal people in South Australia can be found on How we help > Aboriginal Peoples.
Respect Connect is a campaign that raises awareness of the rights of older Aboriginal people and the importance of respect.
What keeps you safe: approaches to promote the safety of older Aboriginal people (PDF 1.5 MB) is a report focusing on the safety of older Aboriginal people and the prevention of elder abuse.
Elder abuse and people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds
The factsheet Elder abuse and people from diverse cultural and language backgrounds explains how culture and language can affect elder abuse. It gives tips on how to recognise and respond to abuse in a way that respects people's cultural values and beliefs.
Elder abuse and people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds (PDF 119.7 KB)
More information for diverse and culturally linguistic people
Book interpreting and translating services with the Interpreting and Translating Centre.