The Commonwealth Government is committed to a strong and meaningful response to the celebration of the International Year of Older Persons. The key policy response is the development of a national strategy to address the issues arising from the ageing of the Australian population.

In 1976 Australia had 1.3 million people over 65 years - 9% of the population. By 1998, this had increased to 12% or 2.2 million people. Projections show that this will grow to 16% or 3.6 million in 2016. These trends are the context for consideration of appropriate policy responses by the Government. A broad strategic approach and agreement on the elements required for ongoing action is essential. The National Strategy will enhance Australia's capacity to provide a quality lifestyle which is sustainable for Australians of all ages.

The National Strategy will develop a broad ranging framework to identify challenges and possible responses by Government, business, the community and individuals to meet the needs of Australians as they age. A whole of government approach is building on work already undertaken to look at possible impacts of ageing in particular areas, for example, in superannuation accumulation and use, and appropriate housing.

The Hon. Bronwyn Bishop, MP Minister for Aged Care has issued a background paper which outlines the scope of the work currently being undertaken on the impacts of, and potential policy responses to, ageing under four major themes ie. Independence and Self Provision; World Class Care; Healthy Ageing; and Attitude, Lifestyle and Community Support. Discussion papers on each of the themes will be released progressively during 1999.

Key stakeholders have already been consulted regarding the framework for the National Strategy, with more than 100 responses received from peak consumer groups, industry organisations, various government departments at the Commonwealth, State and Territory level as well as Ministers. These stakeholders and the wider community will be encouraged to respond to the discussion papers and provide feedback to the Government. The outcomes of this consultation process will be taken into account in the development of the National Strategy.

It is important to remember that greater numbers of people are reaching 'old age' is a major achievement, the result of improved living conditions and medical advances over various forms of disease. Future generations of older people will be better educated, have better health and have more financial resources than their parents. These developments open up new possibilities for individuals and the community including the potential for a longer working life in the paid workforce and an expanded personnel base for the volunteer sector. There will also be an increasing range of leisure and travel opportunities, which will provide stimulus to further economic growth.

The coming months will provide a unique opportunity for a concerted and wide ranging consideration of population ageing in Australia. The agenda is being set for a positive process of discussion which will assist the Government in the development of the National Strategy for an Ageing Australia.

To read a summary of the research to inform development of the National Strategy and IYOP go to Ageing, Community Attitudes and Older Australians

To read the National Strategy for an Ageing Australia, go to Commonwealth Government National Strategy for an Ageing Australia

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