Investigating abuse of adults

Investigating abuse of adults

People with impaired decision-making capacity are among the most vulnerable members of society. The Office of the Public Guardian safeguards their rights and interests by investigating allegations of neglect, exploitation and abuse (including financial abuse) and also inadequate or inappropriate decision-making arrangements related to adults with impaired capacity.

Our powers to act to protect a vulnerable person are unique in Australia and, as far as we are aware, the rest of the world. We can only investigate allegations involving adults who cannot make decisions for themselves.

Scared elderly woman

What is abuse?

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Man studying at table

Reporting abuse to OPG

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Meeting with two people

Our investigations process

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Elderly couple hugging

Case studies

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Man and woman shaking hands

Information for professionals

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Who else can help?

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