National voices to lead game changing conversations on elder abuse in the Territory
20 May 2026
For more information and to register click here
COTA NT is bringing two of Australia’s leading advocates for older people’s rights to the Northern Territory as part of a major community awareness initiative focused on preventing elder abuse and driving long-term social change.
Respected national leaders Anne Burgess AM and Dr Kay Patterson AO will headline a series of important conversations aimed at challenging attitudes, empowering older Territorians and strengthening community understanding of elder abuse.
- DARWIN 15th June 2026, 10am – 12pm , Darwin Tennis Centre, 9 Abala Road, Marrara
- Keynote speaker: Anne Burgess AM, Chair, Aged Care Council of Elders
- ALICE SPRINGS 17th June 2026, 10am – 12pm Doubletree by Hilton, 82 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs
- Keynote speaker: The Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO
- TENNANT CREEK 18th June 2026, 10am – 12pm Venue tbc, Tennant Creek
- Keynote speaker: The Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO
- KATHERINE 23rd June 2026, 10am – 12pm
Anne Burgess AM has more than 40 years’ experience leading areas of government focussed on social justice, women’s policy and ageing advocacy. She currently chairs the Australian Government’s Aged Care Council of Elders.
The Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO served as the Age Discrimination Commissioner for seven years and has long been recognised nationally for her work advancing the rights, inclusion and protection of older Australians, including through advocacy on age discrimination and elder abuse prevention. She is currently a Patron of Elder Abuse Action Australia.
COTA NT is collaborating on these events with Darwin Community Legal Service and will bring together older people, carers, service providers, community leaders and policymakers to discuss the realities of elder abuse and the urgent need for coordinated action across the Territory.
COTA NT CEO Sue Shearer said the initiative is about creating meaningful conversations that lead to practical change. “Elder abuse is often hidden, under-reported and misunderstood. These conversations are designed to shine a light on the issue, encourage people to speak up and build a stronger community response that protects the rights, dignity and safety of older Territorians,” Ms Shearer said.
“Bringing nationally respected advocates like Anne Burgess and Dr Kay Patterson to the Territory is incredibly significant. Their leadership and experience will help drive awareness, inspire action and ensure older people’s voices remain at the centre of reform.”
The events will explore issues including ageism, financial abuse, coercion, neglect, safeguarding systems, advocacy and the role communities play in recognising and responding to abuse.
According to Darwin Community Legal Service, older persons’ abuse can include financial, emotional, verbal, social and physical abuse, often perpetrated by someone known to and trusted by the older person.
COTA NT and DCLS have worked together on elder abuse awareness and advocacy since 2015, including campaigns linked to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and the promotion of information and support services for Territory seniors. The community events are expected to spark ongoing dialogue and strengthen partnerships across the Northern Territory to support safer, more respectful ageing.
Media contact:
Sue Shearer, CEO, COTA NT Email: Phone: 08 8941 1004 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 3pm)
COTA NT (also known as Council on the Ageing Northern Territory) is the peak body for senior Territorians advocating for their health and wellbeing since 1969.
Darwin Community Legal Services Established in 1991, DCLS protects legal rights, assists with everyday legal challenges, and advocates for systemic justice and law reform.
For event information and registrations visit: Senior Morning Tea Event Information
• Darwin registrations – https://events.humanitix.com/weaad-mt-drw
• Alice Springs registrations – https://events.humanitix.com/weaad-mt-asp
• Tennant Creek registrations – https://events.humanitix.com/weaad-mt-tc
• Katherine registrations – https://events.humanitix.com/weaad-mt-kth
For help registering for any of these events, call 1800 812 953.