Older people are demanding a new deal which allows them equal and full rights as Australians regardless of their stage of life or age, according to peak seniors advocate group COTA Australia.
COTA Australia’s election platform, A New Deal for Older Australians, was informed by the views of members and a dedicated election panel of more than 800 people aged over 55.
Launched today at the National Press Club, it urges all political leaders to support a nationally integrated approach to tackle the barriers that exist for older people in our society.
“People aged over 50 make up nearly 40% of all voters at the upcoming federal election and political parties ignore their concerns, hopes and aspirations at their own risk,” COTA Australia Chief Executive Ian Yates said.
“We’ve asked older Australians what matter to them and resoundingly they tell us they want a fair go and support so they can live the best life possible with choice, dignity and good health.
”A New Deal for Older Australians identifies five top priorities for policy action to deliver a better life for older people across the nation:
- an end to ageism and age discrimination in all parts of Australian society;
- access to quality health services for all older Australians;
- access to quality aged care services when and where they choose;
- participation in the workforce as long as they want or need to;
- a reasonable standard of living.
“The negative politics that portrays our ageing society as a “problem” is outdated and simply incorrect,” Mr Yates said.
“Our ageing population provides an unprecedented opportunity if the next Australian government provides the leadership to harness the skills and experience of older people, and change community attitudes and behaviour.
“The older population have been at the forefront of cultural change in Australia, and demand policies that will allow them to live more healthy, active and engaged lives for longer,” he said.
Media contacts: Ian Yates 0418 835 439, Jane Garcia 0434 489 533
