COTA Australia welcomes the announcement of the Coalition’s new Shadow Ministry and says improving the lives of older Australians must remain a priority across all portfolios – from aged care and health to housing, the economy and women’s policy.
COTA Australia Chief Executive Officer Patricia Sparrow said the challenges facing older Australians require serious commitment from the entire Parliament.
“COTA’s recent State of the Older Nation report makes it clear that many older Australians are doing it tough – with one in four living in poverty, housing stress on the rise, and too many facing barriers in areas like health care,” Ms Sparrow said.
“These issues don’t sit neatly within a single portfolio. They cut across economic policy, housing, health, social services and women’s policy. That’s why we look forward to working across the Parliament, including with the full Shadow Ministry – including the economic team, Shadow Minister for Women, Employment and Skills team and the Shadow Health and Aged Care Minister – to ensure older Australians are not overlooked.”
Ms Sparrow said COTA Australia is pleased to see that Senator Ruston will continue in the role of Shadow Health and Aged Care Minister given her strong advocacy on the aged care reforms and commitment to ensuring the reforms support older people.
“We look forward to constructive engagement with all members of the Shadow Ministry to ensure older Australians remain front and centre in national policy debates.”
Media contact: Tamara Kotoyan, 0430 291 890 or Alana Mew, 0419 929 722