As we publicly release the Industry Brief on Ageing – Edition 1 (July–September 2024) for the first time, we’re pleased to share a summary resource that not only captures trends but also distils the realities facing older people and the sector that supports them.
This brief has already helped inform government stakeholders. Now, we’re inviting broader sector and community to be considering these issues.
Below, I reflect on three key concerns referenced in the Industry Brief:
- Waitlists and Workforce: Can Aged Care Reform Deliver?
With the new Aged Care Act set to commence in July 2025, expectations are high—but so are community concerns. The promise of a more rights-based, person-centred aged care system is deeply welcome. However, significant structural issues remain a ‘work in progress’.
Foremost for us, is the issue of home care waitlists, which continue to stretch out to 15 months or more for many older Australians. Layered on top of this is a strained workforce, with regional gaps exacerbating the risk of service failure. Without a clear game plan to address these issues, the best legislative intentions may falter at the point of delivery.
At COTA QLD, we are hearing that older people are pleased the system is changing for the better — but they want clarity and certainty to enable good planning.
Many of us will have someone we love receiving support and care through the aged care system. It’s a timely reminder that aged care is not only a system, but a deeply personal experience.
- Housing Insecurity: A Hidden Concern for Older People
The housing challenge for older Queenslanders is no longer future-tense—it’s here, and it’s growing.
From unaffordable rentals and inaccessible homes to the rising number of older women experiencing homelessness, the stories we hear through our programs and consultations are increasingly urgent.
We want to better understand how we can protect those most vulnerable to have their basis human needs of shelter met, as they grow older.
Housing must to cater for a diversity of ages, needs and abilities – we would like to see a ‘whole of life span’ approach to building our housing and community infrastructure.
Secure, accessible and liveable housing is a foundation for ageing well. Governments must integrate housing strategy into its long-term planning for ageing well and delivery of aged care..
- Social Isolation and Trauma: Listening to What’s Unsaid
The less visible dimensions of ageing are often the most consequential. This brief highlights how social isolation, loneliness and trauma are quietly shaping the ageing experience—particularly for older people in regional Queensland, those with a history of institutionalisation, or from culturally diverse communities.
Our new role as the Seniors Social Isolation Prevention Peak provides an opportunity to support systemic change: from fragmented supports to coordinated, trauma-informed, person-driven responses.
We recently ran a workshop in Brisbane to generate new community thinking about future responses to social isolation and loneliness – we know a whole of community and intergenerational response is part of the solution.
What works? It’s not just about services. Community development is key – it builds resilience to social isolation for older people by fostering inclusive, locally-driven networks, spaces, and activities that strengthen connection, purpose, and belonging across all stages of ageing.
Final Thoughts
This brief offers insights from sector partners, communities, research, and lived experience. It’s a tool for advocacy, reflection and collaboration.
We invite you to read it, share it, and use it in your work.
Let’s continue shaping a Queensland where every older person feels valued, heard and supported—where ageing is celebrated, not endured.
📘 Access the full Industry Brief on Ageing – Edition 1
Any enquiries regarding the Sector Brief – please email policy@cotaqld.org.au
