Reporting abuse of people with impaired capacity
Part of the Capacity topic
Understand what to do if you think an adult with impaired capacity is being abused or pressured.
On this page
In short
Adults with impaired capacity are vulnerable members of our society and may not be able to report their abuse or be in a position to report it. If you think the adult is in immediate danger, phone the police.
What you should know
If you suspect that an adult with impaired capacity is being physically, financially or emotionally abused or pressured to make a decision, the priority must be to ensure the adult’s health, safety and wellbeing.
See understanding capacity to make decisions.
You should try to connect the adult with appropriate and relevant support services and prioritise their immediate safety. If you think the adult is in immediate danger, phone the police.
You can also contact the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) directly with your concerns—phone 1300 653 187.
The OPG cannot investigate if:
- the abused person does not have impaired capacity
- a more appropriate body should investigate the allegation.
In these cases, the OPG will refer the matter to other agencies.
You may be interested in
Support services for people with impaired capacity