Manningham is home to a vibrant and diverse community in Melbourne’s north eastern suburbs. According to the 2021 Australian Bureau of Statistics Census, the usual resident population of the City of Manningham was 124,700, with 28.4 percent of residents aged 60 years and over, highlighting the importance of supporting people to age well. Manningham has a long-standing commitment to supporting positive ageing and fostering an age-friendly community.

Creating an age friendly Manningham is consistent with Council’s strategic direction. As a local government, we advocate for inclusive, safe and accessible communities, deliver initiatives that support older adults to live active and connected lives, and work in partnership with local community groups and providers to develop age friendly initiatives. The strategic commitment is reflected in the priorities identified in the Age Friendly Manningham Framework 2026-2029, which was formally adopted by Manningham Council in March 2026. The Framework was informed by research undertaken in partnership with La Trobe University, focusing on the perspectives of older adults in our community.

The Council Plan 2025–2029 establishes overarching Council priorities and themes identified by the Manningham community. The Age Friendly Manningham Framework supports Council Plan, aligning with its goal of creating a safe and healthy community, with a focus on improving wellbeing across all life stages. The Framework also aligns with Council’s broader strategic directions and long term planning documents.

The Age-friendly Manningham Framework guides how Council supports older residents to stay well and connected. It prioritises safe and accessible outdoor spaces and buildings, and places strong emphasis on respect and social inclusion, supporting connection and participation. It also promotes access to clear information through information sessions and navigation.

Adopting an age-friendly approach through the priorities detailed in the Age-friendly Manningham Framework will support us to deliver on our 2025–2029 Council Plan priorities and advance our development as an age-friendly community.