Older Tasmanians

A woman with grey hair doing a painting

Older Tasmanians are immensely important in our community, and we recognise the valuable contributions they make to our society and our economy.

Tasmania has the oldest population, and Tasmanians are ageing faster than any other state or territory in the nation.

A Respectful, Age-Friendly Island: Older Tasmanians Action Plan 2025-2029 (the Plan) seeks to enable an environment that supports the well-being, potential and value of older Tasmanians and address the unique challenges associated with ageing in Tasmania.

The Plan also incorporates actions to progress Lifelong Respect: Tasmania’s Strategy to end the abuse of older people 2023-2029.
Although there is a global trend towards living longer lives, not everyone ages in the same way.
A longer life should mean more time to enjoy a healthy lifestyle with family and friends and the rewards of wisdom and experience. Increasing longevity, however, can also present challenges for people.
Many older Tasmanians endure ill-health, stigma, isolation, insecurity, neglect and even abuse during their later years.

The factors contributing to these negative experiences and disparities can be prevented or mitigated with targeted interventions within all life domains - social, economic, health and wellbeing, educational, cultural, and technological.

The Tasmanian Government’s vision is a respectful, age-friendly island where older Tasmanians are valued, connected, and supported.

The Tasmanian Government provides funding to the Council on the Ageing Tasmania (COTA Tas) to act as the peak body representing the interests of older people. COTA Tas delivers Seniors Week on behalf of the Tasmanian Government and supports the implementation of the Plan.