New elder abuse research underway for older LGBTIQA+ people

This research has been commissioned, and is funded by, the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department (AGD).

It’s a partnership between the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) and Queerspace, a division of Drummond Street Services. It will also be guided by an LGBTIQA+ lived experience advisory panel (LEAP).

The research project aims to survey the nature and dynamics of this abuse and mistreatment, the characteristics of people experiencing or engaging in abuse and mistreatment, the effects of abuse on the older LGBTIQA+ communities, and any help-seeking and actions.

There are multiple components to the research project which include:

• a desktop review that synthesises and summarises existing research and research underway on abuse and mistreatment of LGBTIQA+ older people.

• a survey of LGBTIQA+ adults (18Y+)

• focus groups and interviews with LGBTIQA+ older adults (55Y+, or 50Y+ for adults who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander).

The survey and focus groups will capture the views and experiences of LGBTIQA+ adults about the mistreatment of themselves or others in the community.

The project begins mid-September 2024.

For more information about the project, please contact LGBTIQA@aifs.gov.au