Ambassador for Ageing

Information about the Ambassador for Ageing position.

The Australian Government has established an Ambassador for Ageing to promote activities that ensure our communities value and respect older people. Ms Noeline Brown was appointed as the first Ambassador by the Minister for Ageing, the Hon Justine Elliot MP on 12 April 2008. A media release was issued on 12 April 2008 detailing Ms Browns appointment.

The role of the Ambassador is to promote healthy, positive and active ageing messages within the community; lead promotional activities to ensure our communities value and respect older people; and explain Government programs and initiatives to the public including assisting older people to be aware of programs and how to access them.

To arrange an interview/event with Ms Brown, please contact Toni McLennan, Public Affairs, Department of Health and Ageing, phone: 0402 674 457.

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Noeline proud of disaster relief efforts

A personal message from Noeline Brown, Ambassador for Ageing.

The natural disasters of the Victorian bushfires and Queensland floods mean difficult times for Australians, including older Australians. Our lands and our people have been battered. Yet we have shown the courage and tenacity to overcome these disasters time and time again.

We see our communities come together, volunteers from all over the country pitching in to help our mates. For those of us who can’t help on the front line, we feel mixed emotions – utter sadness, helplessness and compassion. We also know that if we went through what they have been through, they’d be there for us too.

The immense amount of support given by dedicated volunteers – fire fighters, support workers and community members – has been overwhelming. Their efforts have really touched me; to witness their selfless hard work at helping grief-stricken communities has astounded me.

The efforts of ordinary Australians who have donated necessities such as clothing, food and money to re-establish these communities, has also astounded me. The national day of mourning memorial service was incredibly moving.

These sorts of disasters affect all sections of the community. The grief and loss these disasters have caused have changed these communities forever. If you would like to contribute to the disaster relief funds, you can contact 1800 811 700 or visit www.redcross.org.au