Age-based discrimination affects many Victorians. Assumptions or stereotypes about age impact the health, wellbeing and confidence of people at every stage of life. Ageism is understood to be a key driver of elder abuse and is the most accepted form of prejudice in Australia.
We all have a role to play in driving sustainable change. Together, we can promote a more equitable and respectful society across all ages.
Through a $6 million investment over four years in the 2023-24 Victorian State Budget, the Victorian Government is supporting Elder Abuse Prevention Networks (EAPN) to drive change.
The following resources, developed by the EAPN, are available to help individuals and organisations challenge ageism.
Challenging ageist language
The language we use, when talking about ourselves or others, can influence how we see, live and experience ageing.
For older people, this can include harmful stereotypes and outdated beliefs. This language shapes and influences how older people are viewed and treated by individuals and the community.
Older people play a positive and incredibly valuable role in our communities. Reflecting on our thoughts towards ageing is important to help change the conversation around age.
The Framing Age Message Guide provides tools and tips for talking about age, ageing and issues that affect older people. Read the Guide on Southern Melbourne Primary Care Partnership Elder Abuse Prevention Network's website.
Here are some changes everyone can get started on today:
- Use values (not facts) to persuade – appeal to people’s values, rather than only using statistics or facts
- Emphasise similarities (not differences) – highlight similarities across age groups and use inclusive, person-centred language
- Celebrate diversity (not stereotypes) – show the diversity of people at every age and avoid age-based stereotypes
- Repeat your story (not myths) – focus on what you want your audience to believe instead of repeating negative stereotypes
- Focus on solutions (more than problems) – spend more time talking about possible solutions
- Keep it real (not abstract) – use real stories and real people to bring your story to life.
The guide was launched in 2021 by the Southern Melbourne Primary Care Partnership Elder Abuse Prevention Network, with the engagement of Common Cause Australia.
Bridging the digital divide
People of all ages should have every opportunity to take part online.
The Digital Age Inclusivity and Accessibility Audit Tool provides support to improve webpage accessibility and inclusivity for older people. Find the Tool on Merri Health's website.
This easy-to-use checklist helps staff and organisations to spot and suggest website improvements. The tips break down complex ideas to tackle ageism and bridge the digital divide.
Informed by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the audit tool offers clear solutions to reduce barriers and boost online access. Plus, it goes beyond WCAG by giving tips for using images and language that respect age.
The North and West Metro Elder Abuse Prevention Networks in Victoria launched the project in 2023. An update was published in June 2024.
Addressing ageism in the workplace
A key attribute to ageing well is the ability for older people to access employment and be seen as capable.
The Guide for Addressing Ageism in the Workplace provides concise and practical tips for acting against ageism in the workplace.
Based on the tips and principles in the Framing Age Message Guide, this new resource describes ways of acting against ageism in the workplace while keeping things positive and respectful. The more we speak up when we hear ageist comments or jokes, the more those around us will recognise it as a problem.
The Southern Melbourne Elder Abuse Prevention Network will launch the Guide for Addressing Ageism in the Workplace on Wednesday 9 October in honour of Ageism Awareness Day. Find the Guide on Southern Melbourne Elder Abuse Prevention Network website.
More information
Stay up to date with useful information for senior Victorians on the Seniors Online website.