'Ageism impacts everyone': Australians demand action

There's a push for a national plan to tackle ageism, with the majority of people over 50 demanding better support ahead of the federal election.

Published: 2 May 2025
  • national
  • 2 May 2025
  • The Senior

Six in ten people surveyed by advocacy group COTA Australia want action immediately, nominating the rising cost of groceries, bills and medical appointments as issues that would sway their vote.

The effects of Australia's ageism problem are colliding with the increasingly ageing population, according to COTA chief executive Patricia Sparrow.

"It's a dangerous combination that our politicians need to start addressing quickly," she said.

"Ageism impacts everyone. It locks people out of work, it impacts our healthcare – it can impact people in every area of their lives."