Reporting abuse to the Adult Guardian

Contact us for advice if you suspect that an adult with impaired decision-making capacity is being abused, neglected or exploited. However, there is no mandatory reporting regime, unlike child protection. If we think we should investigate you will need to complete a referral form outlining details of the allegations.

You should raise concerns of abuse, neglect or exploitation with any agencies involved with the adult’s care. These agencies should be able to address these concerns and take appropriate action. In certain cases you should lodge an application for guardianship or administration directly with Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).

If you are unsure about who to approach, contact our office’s investigation team to discuss the matter.

Whistleblower protection

Whistleblower protection is given to people who refer a case to us for investigation. All information that we gather is strictly confidential, unless the person making the complaint agrees otherwise.

The information obtained under the Adult Guardian’s investigative powers remains confidential except for certain exceptions allowed by law, for example we can pass information on to QCAT or the police if required.