‘We can lead, we can walk beside and we can walk behind but older people and their families don’t need to walk alone.’ For Elder Rights Australia advocate Melitta Zobec, this is what independent advocacy is all about.

‘Advocacy gives a voice to people who might be hesitant to ask questions, raise concerns or follow up issues,’ she said.

The right to access aged care advocacy is embedded in the Aged Care Act 2024. But many older people still hesitate to speak up.

‘This can be due to not wanting to get someone in trouble, communication or cultural barriers, or past negative experiences. In regional towns, some older people fear that complaining may mean they have to move to a residential home far away from family and friends.’

Melitta’s advice to older people was simple: ’knowledge is power’.

‘Ensure you know your rights, ask questions, keep records, and feel free to call an advocacy service. Aged care is complex – I’ve worked in aged care for 19 years and I learn new things every day.’

In Victoria, there are advocates all over the state, from Mildura to Warrnambool, across to Gippsland and everywhere in between.

‘Being local makes a big difference . . . people usually relax and go, “ok – you’re human, you’re local, you get it, I can trust you’re looking out for me!”.’

Each advocacy case was different but, ultimately, the goal was the same – empowerment for the older person, Melitta said.

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