10-year plan to tackle dementia crisis in Australia
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The Australian Government has launched the National Dementia Action Plan 2024–2034, a comprehensive blueprint to tackle one of the nation’s most pressing health challenges.
With dementia currently affecting 411,000 Australians—a number projected to more than double by 2058—the plan outlines eight key actions to foster greater awareness, improve care and reduce the societal impact of dementia.
“Dementia is a national health priority for our government, and this historic plan is a reminder that while we’ve made huge advancements in treatment, there is still more to do to raise awareness, diagnose, and care for individuals and communities impacted by dementia,” said Health Minister Mark Butler.
Developed in collaboration with state and territory governments, aged care providers, health professionals and advocates, the plan reflects Australia’s commitment to fostering dementia-friendly communities while addressing the needs of carers and families. Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells highlighted the urgency: “It is estimated that over 411,000 Australians live with dementia and, without intervention, this number is projected to more than double by 2058.”
“We can make a difference and reduce these numbers, slow the progression of dementia and improve quality of life by working together to deliver the National Dementia Action Plan.”
Key elements of the plan include reducing stigma, enhancing dementia literacy, and equipping the workforce with training to provide better care. Dr Isabelle Meyer, Executive Director of Dementia Training Australia (DTA), emphasised the plan’s broader societal implications: “The National Dementia Action Plan is not just a policy; it is a promise to Australians living with dementia and their loved ones. It acknowledges that dementia is a societal challenge requiring a collective response.”
Carer Support and Workforce Development at the Forefront
The plan aims to support the 1.6 million Australians currently caring for people with dementia. Efforts include expanding respite programs and providing better training for carers and professionals. The government has committed $56.8 million to help older patients transition from hospital to aged care and $8 million to innovative respite services.
Training initiatives also take centre stage, with DTA delivering over 100,000 hours of free education since 2016. “Education transforms our ability to support those living with dementia,” said Dr Meyer. “Just as we have normalised first aid training across our communities, we must now prioritise dementia training. Recognising early signs of dementia or responding empathetically can make an enormous difference in someone’s life. This isn’t merely about compliance but cultivating communities that value inclusion, compassion, and respect.”
The plan also positions Australia to align with the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan on Dementia (2017–2025) and emulate dementia-friendly models seen in countries like the UK and the Netherlands. “We are currently a decade behind Europe in building dementia-friendly communities,” Dr Meyer said. “This plan allows us to reset our approach. The time to act is now – before we struggle to support an entire generation of Australians who deserve better.”
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan praised the collaborative effort behind the plan, noting: “Dementia Australia is committed to working with the Government and across the sector on the delivery of the National Dementia Action Plan and to ensure we have the right systems in place for all Australians impacted to be able to access appropriate services and more treatments as they become available.”
The government will track progress through an online dashboard developed by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, ensuring accountability and transparency over the next decade.
Related: New dementia guidelines to enhance care quality by 2026
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
