Push for Power of Attorney Law Reform Gains Momentum

Australia’s Age Discrimination Commissioner, Robert Fitzgerald, has renewed calls for reforming enduring power of attorney (EPOA) laws, following decades of inaction. These reforms, which were frst proposed by National Seniors Australia (NSA) in 2016, aim to introduce nationally consistent legislation to help curb the growing issue of fnancial elder abuse.

Why Reform is Critical Elder abuse, particularly fnancial exploitation, can often go unnoticed as it occurs in private settings, frequently by individuals in positions of trust. The misuse of enduring powers of attorney, where individuals are appointed to make fnancial and legal decisions on behalf of others, is a signifcant avenue for such abuse.

The NSA’s push for reform, supported by Fitzgerald, highlights the need to address gaps in public awareness and knowledge surrounding these documents. The lack of understanding about the responsibilities and risks associated with EPOAs leaves many vulnerable. According to the Empowering Futures report, only 13% of Australians have established an enduring power of attorney, and awareness is particularly low among older