Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older people

Older Aboriginal woman smiling
Older Aboriginal woman smiling To ensure that aged care services are safe and culturally appropriate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older people, the Australian Government is working in partnership with the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council Limited (NATSIAACC), and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

By working together, we can ensure what is important to Elders, their families and communities is central to the development and design of the aged care reforms.

Let’s change aged care together. Register to participate in future engagement activities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older people are less likely to access aged care, due to a range of barriers including:

  • a lack of culturally safe care

  • the complexity of the aged care system

  • the ongoing trauma and impacts of colonisation

  • government policies and prolonged discrimination

  • social and economic disadvantage.

Higher rates of disability and chronic health conditions, co-morbidities, homelessness and dementia also impact access to aged care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

All recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety reference Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.


Let's change aged care, together

Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.

The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.

To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.

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The Department of Health and Aged Care acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to elders both past and present.