The skills, experiences, wisdom and memories of older Australians are assets which benefit the whole community. Alison and the Greens want a Western Australia where older Australians are healthier, feel secure, and are valued, active participants in all aspects of community life. To ensure this vision becomes a reality, a more positive approach to the ageing of our population is needed.
The best way to elevate the needs of seniors in Government decision-making is through the establishment of a portfolio for seniors along with a policy unit for ageing, to develop and implement policies for older Australians across the whole of Government. Such a policy unit will be able to assess the impact of legislation on seniors and put in place measures to ensure the needs of seniors are taken into account.
The WA Government must play a central role in the provision, regulation and support of services for older Australians including housing, transport and care services.