During the period July 1, 1989 to June 30, 1996, there were 2,415 victims of homicide in Australia. Fewer than one in 15 of those victims were aged 65 years and over. Despite homicide being a rare occurrence among older Australians, understanding the factors associated with those incidents is important to develop preventive measures. Offending by older people is also a rare occurrence relative to people from other age groups. Nevertheless, as Australia's population becomes relatively older, monitoring the extent to which those aged 65 years and over are involved in crime, especially violent crime, is increasingly important. There are few policy options that could be directed specifically at reducing homicide risk among people aged 65 years and older. However, basic information on the relative infrequency of homicide against older Australians might help allay unwarranted anxieties. Older people are victims of homicide most often as a result of assault in their own homes. Dealing with family members with mental health problems is an area requiring further attention. Notes, figures, tables, references