The Department of Communities has announced that a proposed Seniors Strategy 2022-2032 for Western Australia was now open for public comment.
The Department is organising forums on the Strategy across the State in May and June.
The Department said the Strategy set out a 10-year plan to support older people, harnessing the opportunities and addressing the challenges of the State’s ageing population.
“The Strategy will be supported by two-year action plans that connect and coordinate activity across WA Agencies, focused on ensuring systems and services are responsive to older peoples’ needs and maximising the benefits provided to seniors,” the Department said.
“It will guide ‘whole of community’ action in making Western Australia a place where older people can age actively, healthily and in the way of their choosing.”
It said the Strategy would encompass a number of topics, such as inclusion and respect, participation and employment, accessible information and services, rights and advocacy, financial and housing security, communication and digital literacy, and healthy and safe living.
“As part of the development of the Strategy, the Department is keen to hear the thoughts and opinions of older Western Australians to help identify emerging themes and issues,” the Department said.
Minister for Seniors and Ageing, Don Punch said research suggested that by 2060-61, 23 per cent of the State’s population would be aged over 65 — a rise of around seven per cent from 2020-21.
“This ageing population in WA offers many benefits, with older people making a significant contribution to our society and to our economy, as volunteers, paid workers, students, family members, carers and consumers,” Mr Punch said.
“The Strategy will look at supporting seniors to live the best life of their choosing, including through ageing with choice and living independently if they wish,” he said.
