With almost one in four people to be aged 60 or over by 2031, the NSW Government has committed to a decade-long ageing strategy, addressing focus areas identified by seniors including resilience and safety.
Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021–2031 is a whole-of-government and whole-of-community approach which underpins NSW projects, policy and services to best support older people and remove barriers to continued participation.
“We are living longer than ever and as the NSW population continues to age, it’s critical to have a long-term strategy addressing current needs and emerging issues that will affect seniors over the next decade,” Mr Lee said.
“It renews our vision for people in NSW to experience the benefits of living longer, while participating in, contributing to and being included in their communities.”
The four focus areas are living in age-friendly environments; participating in inclusive communities; staying safe, active and healthy; and being resilient and informed.
Five, two-year action plans will keep the framework on track, setting out activities and initiatives to be delivered, including those focusing on older people in vulnerable groups.
“This means we can incorporate new or expanded initiatives into future action plans as they develop, enabling our efforts to evolve and shift to meet the needs of older people,” Mr Lee said.
The strategy unites a comprehensive collection of activities across NSW agencies, focused on improving systems and infrastructure, and delivering services.
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing (MACA) was among many organisations, stakeholders and peak bodies included in consultation.
“We’re creating communities where older people are respected and supported, especially in areas like flexible working and affordable housing,” MACA Chair, Kathryn Greiner AO, said.
“It’s a new era for ageing where older people want to seize opportunities, manage challenges and ultimately share their wealth of skills, knowledge and experience.”
The first two-year action plan commences in January 2021, with 88 new or continuing initiatives that positively influence outcomes for older people.
CLICK HERE to view the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021–2031.
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