Get Involved

Help shape better support for older men

Two men smiling in a workshop, one in the foreground with glasses and a beard, the other in the background, with shelves and wood panels visible around them.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland is looking for Queensland men aged 65 and over to help shape better support for older men.
 
The Reaching Older Men Earlier (ROME) project is about helping local community organisations and services reach and support older men earlier, before things become too difficult.
As men get older, life can change in many ways. Retirement, losing someone close, changes in health or independence, or becoming less connected to other people can all have an impact.
Older men are also at higher risk of suicide.
ROME will work with community organisations and services to improve how they reach out to older men, make them feel welcome and connect them with support when needed.
 

We want to hear from older men

Older men’s experiences will help shape the project.
 
We would like to hear from men who have experienced:
 
  • retirement or another major life change
  • losing someone close
  • feeling less connected to other people
  • changes in health or independence
  • going through a difficult time, feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope.
 
We would also like to hear from men who have supported another older man through a difficult time. You do not need a mental health diagnosis or experience with formal support services to take part. You do not have to tell your whole story. You choose what you are comfortable sharing.
 
What does taking part involve?
 
You may be invited to:
 
  • have a one-to-one conversation
  • join a small group or workshop
  • review project information or resources
  • share your ideas about what works for older men.
 
You may be able to take part by phone, online or in person.
 
Most activities will take place between September and December 2026, with some further opportunities through to May 2027.
 
You will be paid for your time, starting at $50 per hour.
 
Taking part is voluntary. You can choose which activities you would like to join.
 
Interested in taking part?
If you are a Queensland man aged 65 or over, we would like to hear from you.
Read the ROME Participation Guide and complete the online Expression of Interest form
You do not need to tell us about your personal experiences when you express interest.
 
Expressing interest does not mean you have to take part. We will contact you privately, explain the project and give you a chance to ask questions before you decide.
 
For more information, contact:
Lisa Hodgkinson
ROME Project Lead
Council on the Ageing Queensland
Email: lisa.hodgkinson@cotaqld.org.au
Telephone: 07 3316 2905
 
Reaching Older Men Earlier (ROME) is a 12-month project delivered by COTA Queensland and funded by the Queensland Mental Health Commission through the Suicide Prevention for Men and Boys 2025–2026 Grant.

Become a Community Advocate

Council on the Ageing Queensland is very keen to share your lived experience with older Queenslanders.

By adding your voice, you can help us advocate to governments, businesses and communities to positively influence change. Together we can make Queensland a place where older people can age with dignity, independence and purpose.

Take the first step in joining our community by entering your details below and we will be in touch.
Don’t worry, we will never sell or share your contact information with anyone outside of COTA Queensland without your permission.

Thank you for your interest in advocating for the rights and wellbeing of older Queenslanders.