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Disputes can be resolved personally or with mediation, but sometimes legal action may be required.
Advocacy and legal services
Aged Rights Advocacy Services (ARAS)
The Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) supports older people to understand and exercise their rights. It provides information, education, advocacy, support and representation. ARAS also offers a range of publications.
Phone ARAS on 1800 700 600.
Legal Services Commission
The Legal Services Commission provides free preliminary information, advice and referrals. You can use the website to find information on common legal issues. You can also phone or use online chat for help.
Phone 1300 366 424 or chat online.
JusticeNet SA
JusticeNet SA connects eligible South Australians on low incomes with free (pro bono) legal assistance.
Aged care services
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission looks after the safety, health, wellbeing and quality of life of people receiving Australian Government funded aged care services. The website includes the following:
The Australian Government’s National Aged Care Advocacy Program
The Australian Government’s National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP) provides free, confidential, and independent advocacy support to older people receiving or looking to access Australian Government funded aged care services.
NACAP is delivered by the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN). Visit the OPAN website or phone 1800 700 600.
Age discrimination
If you have been discriminated against because of your age, the Office of the Commissioner for Equal Opportunity can help you.
Phone 7322-7070 or find out if the office can help you make a complaint.
Consumer rights
Visit:
- our Consumer Rights section for more information about common issues consumers face
- publications for older Australians can be found on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website.
Elder abuse
The Australian Human Rights Commission
The Australian Human Rights Commission 1800 ELDERHelp is the national elder abuse phone line 1800 353 374.
Adult Safeguarding Unit
The Adult Safeguarding Unit responds to reports of abuse of vulnerable adults.
This includes:
- people aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
- adults living with disability.
Anyone can contact the Adult Safeguarding Unit.
Phone the Adult Safeguarding Unit on 1800 372 310, Monday to Friday during business hours (excluding public holidays).
Publications
'Knowing Your Rights - A Guide to the Rights of Older South Australians' gives advice and information on housing, services, consumer and employment rights, financial matters, family and health, legal rights, security and safety and volunteering.
