Seniors Month in Australia is a time to celebrate and recognise the contributions of older Australians, with various events and activities planned across the country throughout October. This year’s theme, “Explore. Engage. Evolve,” encourages seniors to stay curious and connected, promoting a positive view of ageing.
In Victoria, the annual Seniors Festival kicks off on October 1 and runs until October 31, featuring a diverse range of events designed specifically for older residents. The Greater Shepparton City Council is actively supporting this initiative, highlighting the importance of community engagement among seniors.
“The Seniors Festival provides an opportunity for older members of the community to connect with each other, services, groups, and organizations that will contribute to their positive health and well-being beyond the Festival period,” Louise Mitchell, the Council’s Director of Community, said.
To encourage one million Victorian seniors to travel, the State government has announced eight days of free public transport on bus, tram and train from 6-13 October.
In South Australia, the inaugural Week of Ageing Well will take place from October 1-7, encouraging residents to celebrate life and discover new ways to age well. The South Australian Seniors Card members can enjoy free travel on Adelaide Metro public transport all day, every day, making it easier for them to participate in local festivities.
Meanwhile, Queensland is celebrating Seniors Month with a variety of activities ranging from Tai Chi and Zumba classes in parks to concerts and craft demonstrations. These events aim to foster community connections and promote healthy lifestyles among older Australians.
In Tasmania, Seniors Week will commence with a launch party at Riverside Football Club in Hobart on October 15, running until October 22. This week will feature numerous activities designed to engage seniors and highlight their contributions to society.
The significance of these celebrations is underscored by the increasing demographic shift towards an older population in Australia. Currently, one in six Australians is aged 65 or older, a figure projected to rise significantly in the coming decades. This trend emphasizes the need for inclusive programs that cater to the interests and needs of seniors.
As part of these celebrations, various local councils and organizations are hosting events that not only entertain but also educate seniors about available resources and services that can enhance their quality of life.
For more information on specific events during Seniors Month across different states, residents are encouraged to check their local council websites or community centres. This month serves as a reminder of the valuable role seniors play in society and encourages ongoing engagement across generations.
Here are the main links to the Seniors events calendar for each state in Australia:
Victoria
- Victorian Seniors Festival: Seniors Festival – Victorian Government
Queensland
- Queensland Seniors Month: COTA Queensland
New South Wales
- NSW Seniors Festival: NSW Government
South Australia
- South Australian Seniors Month: SA Government – Seniors Month
Tasmania
- Tasmanian Seniors Week: Seniors Week – Tasmanian Government
Western Australia
- WA Seniors Week: Seniors Week – WA Government
Northern Territory
- NT Seniors Month: NT Government – International Day of Seniors
Australian Capital Territory
- ACT Seniors Month: ACT Government – Seniors Events
These links provide access to comprehensive information about events and activities for seniors in each state, promoting engagement and community participation.
