The National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) recently hosted “Human Rights are Older People’s Rights, Too,” bringing together over 80 leaders, government officials, advocacy experts, industry representatives, academics, researchers, health and aged care professionals, and older people to address the critical issue of human rights for older Australians.
The summit emphasised the need for increased participation of older people in shaping policies that affect their lives.
Age Discrimination Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald AM set the tone for the summit, stating, “Older Australians must not be consigned to being onlookers in the decisions that affect them, nor the systems that support them.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the day’s discussions, highlighting the importance of the active involvement of older people in policy-making processes.
The Hon. Kate Thwaites MP, federal Assistant Minister of Social Security, Ageing and Women, opened the summit by emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting older Australians. “As a society, we need to acknowledge that older people have lived full lives quite capably, and that their right to agency and self-determination does not diminish with age,” Thwaites said.
Cultural safety in aged care emerged as a crucial topic, with Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly sharing insights from her national consultations. Kelly emphasised the importance of culturally appropriate services, stating, “We have the right to be Aboriginal in this place.” This sentiment was reinforced by Dr Jill Gallagher AO, CEO of VACCHO, who stressed the need to “put Aboriginal health in Aboriginal hands” to ensure quality care.
The summit also addressed the challenges faced by diverse groups of older Australians. A panel discussion featuring advocates and lived experience experts offered solutions-focused perspectives on implementing human rights for older people in real-world settings. The panel included representatives from various organisations, including the Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing and the Older Persons Advocacy Network.
NARI Executive Director Professor Tracy Comans highlighted the timeliness of the summit, given the recent introduction of the new Aged Care Act to Parliament. “We are committed to advancing the discourse on ageing and human rights in Australia,” Comans said, emphasising NARI’s dedication to improving the lives of older Australians through research and advocacy.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
