Discussion paper
An older Australia: Identifying areas for local government action
Responding to demographic change
The change in demographics will require a proactive and innovative approach to population ageing that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of all Australians.
At the national level, the Australian Government has developed the National Strategy for an Ageing Australia. The strategy identifies a set of principles, goals and actions to guide the responses of governments, businesses and individuals. Further, the Australian Government released the Intergenerational Report with the 2002-03 Commonwealth Budget. This report explores the economic implications of population ageing in relation to the future funding of public expenditure.
At the local level, a number of local councils throughout Australia have developed or are initiating development of local level responses to population ageing. Often these activities are in partnership with other spheres of government and/or the private sector. They are very important to the well-being of older people and include:
- Senior citizen centres
- Community transport
- Food services and Meals on Wheels
- Respite care and aged care facilities
- Home maintenance
- Ageing policies and programs
- Assistance to the aged through Home and Community Care
The next step for local government is to build on these activities.
What is local government's role in continuing to support the needs of the growing older population?
