Council has developed an Age-Friendly South Gippsland 2017-2021 plan to promote an integrated whole-of-council approach to addressing the needs of people aged 55 and over. An Age-Friendly South Gippsland sets out a strategic framework to allow the aspirations and needs of our older residents to be considered in planning and decision making. The purpose of the plan is to build effective partnerships between local agencies, levels of government and the community to support our older residents in South Gippsland.

Council has recently employed a Positive Ageing Officer who is working on developing better communication links with the senior community by creating a monthly e-newsletter, ‘Community 55+’ and a dedicated web page. These communication streams will enable dissemination of important information, reminders, events and resources to a large cohort of our seniors. A club will be featured each month.

Historically, Council has always been involved in Seniors Week in October and some exciting activities are being planned for 2019, including a free concert, film showings, gallery tours, etc. These events are either free or low cost and provide a rich opportunity for social engagement which is a vital part of ageing well. Other plans are to introduce new residents to the Clubs, groups or activities they are interested in via a mentor program.

Council will be actively engaging with relevant stakeholders to work together to address issues and try to find solutions collaboratively.

We are fortunate to be located in a beautiful part of our region and these are exciting times for our senior residents.