Australia needs a national action plan to address ageism, unlock older people’s participation and protect their rights, COTA Australia says.
The call comes as the world marks International Day of Older Persons. The theme of this year’s day is “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights”.
Patricia Sparrow, Chief Executive of COTA Australia, said the Federal Government should lead with a comprehensive, ten-year action plan for an ageing Australia.
“Ageism hurts us all,” Ms Sparrow said. “It stops older people from giving back – at work, at home and in the community – and that hurts every generation.
“We’re at a turning point. Ageism is rife in Australia while our population is rapidly ageing. If we want older Australians to fully participate, we must remove the barriers that stop them living, working and contributing on their terms.”
Ms Sparrow said a ten-year action plan for an ageing Australia should be co-designed with older Australians and include:
- Measurable actions for government, business and civil society, with clear accountability.
- A research program to map where ageist laws, policies and practices exist, quantify the prevalence and cost of ageism, and identify cohorts at risk – including older women forced into early retirement with less security.
- Funding for evidence-based prevention, including public awareness to reduce ageism, tackle discrimination and lift visibility of the issue across the community.
“Government policy too often treats older people as a problem to be managed,” Ms Sparrow said. “Older Australians are an opportunity – a powerhouse of experience, care and community leadership. With the right policy settings, everyone benefits.”
“Leadership and political will is required to develop policies that empower and harness the skills, knowledge, and economic contributions of older people for the benefit of everyone.
“As Australians live longer, healthier lives, older people must have the opportunity to live, work and participate the way they choose – with rights, dignity and equal respect.
Media contact: Alana Mew, 0419 929 722 or Tamara Kotoyan, 0430 291 890