Released 01/10/2025
The Minister for Seniors and Veterans, Suzanne Orr, has today reaffirmed the Government's supports for ageing Canberrans, recognising the significant role seniors and older Canberrans play in the broader ACT community.
In marking International Day of Older Persons, Minister Orr said the ACT Government is guided by principles of inclusion, dignity, respect, and active ageing which are reflected in strategic frameworks such as the ACT Wellbeing Framework and Canberra’s membership in the World Health Organisation’s Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities.
“On this International Day of Older Persons, we honour the invaluable contributions older people make within families, across many communities and to our city more broadly. Their wisdom, experience and generosity enrich Canberrans every day,” Minister Orr said.
“The ACT Government is proud to reaffirm our commitment to making Canberra a city –where older people are respected, supported and empowered to live active, connected and fulfilling lives.”
The Minister highlighted several initiatives providing benefits to our community, particularly older Canberrans and supporting better planning for policy and service delivery:
- The ACT is one of only three jurisdictions nationally with legal safeguards to protect vulnerable adults and continues to lead the way in promoting safety and dignity for older people.
- Programs like the Age-Friendly Suburbs initiative have delivered real, tangible improvements – such as, better footpaths, lighting, seating, and other public amenities – helping older Canberrans stay active, safe and connected.
- Australia’s first dedicated dementia-friendly film program ‘A Day at the Movies’ is helping to reduce stigma, foster inclusion and ensure people with dementia and their carers can comfortably access screenings.
- Programs like Gold Soul are helping to build bridges between generations, while also strengthening our aged care workforce.
In 2026, COTA ACT will also host UPSTAGEING Canberra - Australia’s first large-scale Creative Ageing Arts Festival.
“This is an arts festival created by, for and with older people. It’s a powerful reminder ageing is not a decline, but a rich and fulfilling stage of life, and is an event the ACT Government is proud to support.”
Quotes attributable to Jenny Mobbs, Chief Executive Officer of COTA ACT:
“UPSTAGEING will put older Canberrans centre stage, showcasing the incredible diversity of their creativity and lived experience.
This festival will not only highlight the contribution of older people to our cultural life, but also demonstrate that creativity and participation in the arts is a lifelong opportunity.”
- Statement ends -
Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases