Project Updates

Cat Turnbull presenting the SOMA Project poster at the EAAA 2026 conference on the Gold Coast

The SOMA Project officially launched on 1 July 2026, marking the beginning of our research into the intersections of migration and mistreatment for older adults in Australia. 

The project has already had a busy start. In the first month, Project Lead Cat Turnbull delivered the project's first academic presentation at the ECU TRACS DRN Annual Symposium and presented a project poster at the 2026 Australian Elder Abuse Conference on the Gold Coast.

These early engagements have provided valuable opportunities to introduce the SOMA Project, its research aims and its approach to academic, practitioner and community audiences.

Hosted by Elder Abuse Action Australia (EAAA), the Australian Elder Abuse Conference brings together people from across sectors, including those with lived and living experience, researchers, community organisations, service providers and policymakers. Cat enjoyed many thoughtful and productive conversations with delegates, whose reflections and insights will help inform the project as it develops. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to speak with us and share their perspectives.