2021-07-30
New members of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing attended their first meeting Wednesday 28 July, bringing diverse experiences and skills from the community, government, private and academic sectors to create a more inclusive and accessible Canberra.
The Council provides strategic advice to the ACT Government on issues affecting older Canberrans and supports the development and implementation of positive ageing policies.
Assistant Minister for Seniors, Veterans, Families and Community Services, Emma Davidson says she is confident the new Council will provide valuable insights to support, implement and track actions in the ACT’s Age-Friendly City Plan.
“The incoming Council members have a deep commitment to improving outcomes for older Canberrans. Their diverse backgrounds ensure different insights, perspectives, and voices of our community are brought into decision making. At their first meeting, I got a taste of just how dynamic and passionate this group is and I look forward to working with them over the next three years to achieve more positive outcomes for our community,” Minister Davidson said.
Ms Prudence Power OAM, Chair of the Council, brings a wealth of experience as a retired healthcare executive. Ms Power finished her career as Chief Executive of the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association, and prior to that was Director of General Practice and e-Health with the Australian Medical Association. In January 2012, Ms Power was made a Member of the Order of Australia for her services to the health sector.
Dr Cathy Hope as Deputy Chair can draw on experience as an Associate Professor at the University of Canberra (UC) where she has worked on interdisciplinary and cross-sector projects to increase opportunities for older Canberrans to participate in and contribute to public life. Dr Hope also works closely with Aunty Roslyn Brown, UC Elder in Residence and Co-Chair of the United Ngunnawal Elders Council to deliver projects that contribute to reconciliation in the ACT.
The full members of the Council include Louise Bannister, Joanna Cochrane, Dr Cathy Hope, Christine Leopardi, Jenny Mobbs, Philip Piggin, Prudence Power OAM, Wendy Prowse, Charles Sage, Juliette Spurrett, Jane Timbrall and Thi Nha Tran.
More information about the new members can be found at: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/seniors/advisory_council_on_ageing
Quote attributable to Ms Prudence Power OAM the new Council Chair:
"I am looking forward to working with the Council and the Minister to enhance Canberra’s age-friendly policies. Council members bring a wealth of experience to the table. Together, we are committed to shaping and maintaining our city environment so that older Canberrans have opportunities to engage fully in all parts of the community.”