COTA Australia’s role is to promote, improve and protect the wellbeing of older people in Australia as citizens and consumers. It seeks to be recognised by government, the general community and media as representing, advocating for and serving all older Australians.

COTA Australia promotes the interests of Australians as we age at the highest level of government and key national organisations. See Representing You for a full list of bodies on which COTA Australia is represented.

COTA Australia speaks to Federal Government Ministers and advisors, Shadow Ministers and other Parties, and the most senior levels of the public service on key issues of relevance. We make submissions to Government and Parliamentary Inquiries. For further information about COTA submissions go to Submissions.

COTA Australia speaks out on matters of concern to Australians as they age and is widely recognised and sought out by media to comment on the issues of the day. See Media Releases for what COTA has been saying.

COTA Australia is currently focusing particularly on aged care reform that provides people with greater choice and control development of better retirement income policy; and improved health services; while always fighting ageism and age discrimination. COTA Australia priorities are set out in its Strategic Directions Statement.

Policy Priorities

Policy priorities for COTA Australia reflect issues of major concern to older people as well as emerging opportunities in national public policy. Issues are identified from COTA members, local networks of seniors clubs and groups, and contacts from older people and their families.

Policy areas for action as identified by the National Policy Council include but are not limited to: