A state government service that investigates reports of abuse or mistreatment experienced by older people and those living with a disability has been expanded to include all South Australians.
The SA Health Adult Safeguarding Unit was established in 2019 to respond to reports of abuse of people aged over 65, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged over 50.
But the following year, it was expanded to include South Australians living with a disability after the neglect death of Ann-Marie Smith, which resulted in her NDIS carer being convicted of manslaughter, and sweeping changes to the sector.
Today, the government has opened up the service to all South Australian adults.
Health Minister Chris Picton said the expansion would give South Australians "more opportunities" to pinpoint vulnerable people in the community.
"Making sure we have a dedicated unit that is able to take those referrals, investigate those issues and make sure we safeguard people's rights is absolutely important," he said.
"All adults have a right to live with dignity and autonomy, free of abuse or mistreatment – especially from the ones they know and trust.
"This expansion will help ensure protections are in place for vulnerable South Australians, and more support available to those who need it most.
"We need to respect everyone in our community."
Mr Picton said staffing in the unit had been "increased over time" and more staff may be employed if there is a boost in referrals.
The unit can refer the subject of a report to a relevant aged care or disability service, provide legal advice, update financial arrangements and apply for a guardian or administrator to be appointed.
Reports can be referred to SA Police
Over the past three years, more than 5,000 phone calls from people concerned about themselves or others have been made to the service, with about half of these calls resulting in a report.
The unit has the power to refer a report to SA Police – with or without the consent of the victim.
The government said the changes coincide with the launch of a TV and social media advertising campaign designed to stamp out ageism.
Office for Ageing Well acting executive director Cassie Mason said the Adult Safeguarding Unit had made it easier for people to report cases of actual or suspected abuse or mistreatment.
"We have a strong focus on upholding the rights of all adults who may be vulnerable while supporting each person's unique situation and preferences," she said.
