Financial security

• Fighting against financial abuse of seniors by trusted friends, family, or carers
• Advocating for stronger national safeguards, such as a national register for Powers of Attorney and a dedicated investigative body
• Protecting seniors from financial crimes, advocating for stricter frameworks to prevent scams and promoting scams information
• Advocates for adjustments to the Age Pension, rent assistance and financial advice rule
• Promote digital inclusion learning that helps seniors safely navigate online banking and secure digital identities.

Reference

March 2025 Sue Shearer: Pensioners to see financial relief from March 20, but NT seniors’ advocate says it’s not enough to ease cost-of-living pressures – NT News Council on the Ageing NT (COTA NT) CEO Sue Shearer says the increase doesn’t go far enough in helping pensioners manage soaring living costs, particularly in the Northern Territory. “While the Albanese government will provide more incentives to lower cost-of-living pressures for pensioners – it is still not enough,” Ms Shearer said. She highlighted that many pensioners are struggling to afford their rent, with the NT having one of the highest percentages of people in private rentals. “The average pensioner, if they don’t own their home, is living on the poverty line,” Ms Shearer said. “How can you survive on a single pension of just over $1000 per fortnight when rent is $300 to $400 each week?” Ms Shearer is calling for changes to the pension system that would allow seniors to supplement their income without financial penalties.

Updated 9 February 2026