Agenda for Ageing campaign begins ahead of Victorian elections

A bipartisan Agenda for Ageing has been launched in Victoria in the lead up to the 2018 elections, and OCAV is supporting it.

Currently, there is no plan for the increased longevity and diversity of Victoria’s population. The result is a fragmented approach to policy and programs relating to older people between the ages of 50 and 100.

The Agenda, spearheaded by the Council on the Ageing (Victoria) has the backing of 18 organisations, all of whom are directly involved in the wellbeing of older Victorians.

“As a recognised age-friendly community, we champion older people and welcome the diversity of their life experiences and skills. We are proud to support this initiative as it fits within our Vision 2020, and commitment to ensuring that older people can thrive and contribute to society,” OCAV CEO Phillip Wohlers said.

The Alliance is calling for a comprehensive statewide action plan that sets out the challenges, opportunities, and actions across government departments.

By 2031, almost one in every four Victorians will be aged over 60 and in rural and regional communities this figure will be as high as one in three.

“That’s only 13 years away, and just as we are working to our own vision, we need Victoria to have a statewide vision and action agenda. This includes policies and programs that will keep our older population contributing to communities and the economy,” Mr Wohlers said.

The Agenda was launched at Parliament House with speakers including the Minister for Disability & Ageing Martin Foley MP; Age Discrimination Commissioner Dr Kay Patterson AO and former Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Professor Brian Howe AO.