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THE HON JUSTINE ELLIOT MP

Former Minister for Ageing

National Seniors Housing Report – Helping Understand the Housing Preferences of Older Australians

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Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot welcomed the new perspective on housing for older Australians contained in the Moving or staying put: Deciding where to live in later life report released on 26 November by National Seniors Australia.

PDF printable version of National Seniors Housing Report – Helping Understand the Housing Preferences of Older Australians (PDF 31 KB)

26 November 2009

Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot welcomed the new perspective on housing for older Australians contained in the Moving or staying put: Deciding where to live in later life report released today by National Seniors Australia.

The National Seniors report found that two in three Australians are moving home between the aged of 55 and 75 due to factors such as the ongoing need to maintain their homes or a decline in their partner’s health.

Minister Elliot said: “It is the clear preference of Australians to maintain maximum independence as they grow older.

“Older Australians wish to remain in their own homes and in their communities, close to friends and relatives.

“This new research provides important insights into the timing, reasons and circumstances that influence the decisions of Australians to move in later life.

“Suitable housing and access to services are important considerations for ageing in place, whether that place is the long-term family home or down-sized accommodation.

“We are increasing the supply of social housing for older Australians and examining the provision of Universally-Designed housing to help expand the housing choices available to older Australians,” Minister Elliot said.

Universally Designed homes are those which include features which meet the changing needs of occupants across their lifetimes.

Minister Elliot said: “We are working hard to meet the challenges of an ageing population by providing funding for practical support such as home modification, encouraging design improvements and increasing the supply of affordable housing.

“We are providing more services to help more older Australians remain independent and at home,” Minister Elliot said.
This year the Rudd Government is delivering:

  • $788.5 million this year for community aged care packages;
  • Almost $1.2 billion for Home And Community Care services this year;
  • $202 million this year for respite care services; and
  • Its election commitment to create an additional 2000 transition care places which assist older Australians regain their independence after a hospital stay.
The Report is available on National Seniors’ Productive Ageing Website http://www.productiveageing.com.au/site/

For more information, contact Mrs Elliot's office on (02) 6277 7280

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