Caz Heise, independent candidate for Cowper, has confirmed her commitment to combating elder abuse and ensuring the rights and wellbeing of older Australians are prioritised.

In response to a heartfelt letter from Elder Abuse Action Australia, Caz has outlined her strong support for key initiatives that aim to protect older Australians from discrimination and abuse, recognising the urgent need for systemic change in this area.

Caz support the following key priorities for action

• Federal Human Rights Act - endorses the introduction of a to provide clear and enforceable protections against elder abuse and discrimination. “All Australians deserve equal protection under the law, regardless of their age. It is time to establish a national framework that ensures justice for older Australians and holds perpetrators accountable,” said Caz.

• Sustainable Funding for Elder Abuse Services - dedicated to securing long-term federal funding to bolster services that combat and respond to elder abuse. “The current system is fragmented, leaving many regional Australians without access to essential support. As someone who has worked within health and as a health care leader, I have witnessed the devastating impacts of under-resourced systems. We must ensure that legal, social, and health supports are well-funded and coordinated,” Caz emphasised.

• Provides in-principle support for the creation of a Minister for Older Australians, acknowledging that issues relating to aging span across various government sectors, well beyond aged care and health. “Consultation with sector experts will be critical to understanding how best to elevate the voices and needs of older Australians in policymaking,” Caz stated.

In addition to these key initiatives, Caz is also standing firm on addressing the pressing cost of living challenges faced by older Australians. “I fully endorse the National Seniors Australia Pre-Budget Submission, which advocates for actions aimed at improving financial security for pensioners,” she reiterated.

Caz's plan includes:

• Increasing the Age Pension to eliminate pension poverty and help all older Australians meet basic living costs.

• Expanding the Pensioner Concession Card to provide enhanced support for those at risk of hardship.

• Reforming deeming rates to better reflect actual savings returns, allowing fairer treatment under income tests.

• Exempting employment income from income tests, enabling older Australians the flexibility to work without financial penalties.

Caz’s plan is based on the principle that every Australian, particularly our elders, deserves dignity, safety, and equal rights. 

“With the community's support, we can adopt these vital reforms, creating a safer and more just environment for our older people,” she concluded.