2026 Issue Brief - Elder Abuse and Financial Protection

Elder abuse affects an estimated 1 in 10 older New Zealanders, with significantly under-reported prevalence. Key consequences: - Financial devastation: Tens of millions of dollars lost annually; often family-perpetrated - Health impacts: Physical and psychological abuse accelerate decline, increase hospitalisation - Legal system burden: PPPR Act matters, Family Court applications, police investigations - Trust erosion: Undermines confidence in EPAs, retirement villages, financial institutions - Systemic gaps: Fragmented response across police, courts, health, social services, and banking The ageing population means the number of at-risk older people is growing rapidly (65+ projected to reach 1.5 million by 2051). - Hon Casey Costello (Minister for Seniors, NZ First): Leads elder abuse awareness campaigns and coordination. EARS funded through Office for Seniors within MSD. Active public awareness campaigns ongoing (see Seniors Portfolio Profile). - Hon Paul Goldsmith (Minister of Justice, National): Responsible for PPPR Act, criminal justice response to elder abuse, Family Court processes. PPPR Act review underway via Law Commission. Elder abuse prosecution guidelines under development (see Justice Portfolio Profile). - Hon Cameron Brewer (Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, National): Consumer protection framework — Fair Trading Act, scams prevention. Banking conduct review addressing treatment of vulnerable customers (see Commerce Portf