The NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020 Executive Summary

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© Danielle Robertson Consulting Pty Ltd t/as DR Care Solutions

The NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020 was released this month by the State Government. The 2014 Strategy celebrated a few notable successes such as:

  1. Tech Savy Seniors Program
  2. Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit
  3. Liveable Communities Grant Program

 

The NSW State Government highlights its responsibility for facilitating access to Government Services, public spaces, transport, health, social housing and justice. The new strategy engaged federal and local government, stakeholders and individuals to develop the new strategy. Its vision is:

“People in NSW experience the benefits of living longer and enjoy opportunities to participate in, contribute to and be included in their communities.”

Concepts across existing Aged Care and Disability reforms are consistent and featured within the strategy. Concepts such as Person Centred Care; Whole of government and whole of community responsibility; state-wide change and locally driven responses.

Diversity is recognised through groups and recognised the special needs of older people who are:

  • Aboriginal
  • Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD)
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Intersex (LGBTI)
  • Have caring responsibilities
  • Have a disability, dementia or chronic disease
  • Live in rural or remote areas
  • Disadvantaged and vulnerable communities.

 

The 2016-2020 Strategies Focus on Five Priority Areas:

Priority 1: Health & Wellbeing - Older people in NSW are encouraged to live active and healthy lives with improved physical and mental wellbeing.

Priority 2: Working & Retiring - Older people in NSW have opportunities to remain in the workforce longer, are financially secure and independent in retirement, and plan their finances based on their circumstances and needs.

Priority 3: Housing Choices - Older people in NSW live in affordable, accessible, adaptable and stable housing.

Priority 4: Getting Around - Older people in NSW travel safely and appropriately to participate in social and economic life and access services.

Priority 5: Inclusive Communities - Older people in NSW stay connected and contribute to their communities.

 

The strategy has been released so that all levels of government and sectors in NSW will come together to achieve the vision. Implementation will start with the Year One Implementation Plan where the NSW Government agencies’ will play a key role in preparing for NSW’s ageing population. Implementation in year one and the following years will be assessed, outcomes measured and learnings integrated into the plan.

Initiatives will explore new ideas, which will be co-designed with older people across NSW and partnerships with the NSW Government, private, non for profit and broader communities.

For more information, contact Danielle Robertson, DR Care Solutions.

- Contact Danielle - For An Impartial & Confidential Conversation

 

Danielle Robertson

Danielle Robertson

Working with you and your support network to get the right care outcomes for you and your loved ones. Danielle Robertson is founder and CEO of DR Care Solutions, offering aged care and disability care concierge services and expertise on how to set up the right care, support and assistance for your loved one, at the right time and in the right place. Danielle's experience in the Australian care sector spans over three and a half decades. Now that's a lot of experience, wisdom and networks!