COTA election policy guide 2001 COTA election policy guide 2001
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21st Century Ageing: a plan for Government 2002-2004
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Media release 19 September 2001
COTA PUSHES ELECTION CANDIDATES ON PROMISES FOR AN AGEING FUTURE
There are 2.3 million voters over the age of 65. COTA sets out the key issues for older Australians in the forthcoming election in its election policy guide 21st Ageing: A Plan for Government in 2002-2004.
"There are 1.2 million people on full age pensions who are struggling to make ends meet - as are the 33 per cent of 50-64 year olds reliant on other social security payments. The GST, increased user pays, and pressures on services such as dental care all play a part," said Mr Denys Correll, National Executive Director.
"Older people are worried that if they get sick they will not be able to get a bed in a public hospital or afford the medications they need. They are worried about falling standards and staffing in nursing homes and the lack of services if they wish to stay at home.
"A big issue for the over 50s group is discrimination in the job market. The community at large is concerned about the effects of the ageing demographics and wants a solid Government response.
"These issues are the basis of the policies in COTA's new election policy guide. We are looking for a new vision for Australia's older population.
"COTA has a 9 point policy plan that it wants all candidates to adopt.
1. Take forward the National Strategy for an Ageing Australia.
2. Protect the revenue base through a progressive taxation system.
3. Strengthen Australia's retirement incomes system.
4. Remove barriers to employment for older workers.
5. Boost Australia's public health system.
6. Build up public dental health services.
7. Preserve the integrity of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
8. Strengthen residential aged care.
9. Ensure access to community care."Older people, their families and carers, staff in aged services and the community at large will be assessing each candidate in terms of their commitment to these policies," concluded Mr Correll.
Copyright © 2001 Council on the
Ageing. All rights reserved.
Date: 25 September 2001
Revised: 22 October 2001
Council on the Ageing
(Australia)
Level 2, 3 Bowen Crescent, Melbourne Vic 3004
Tel (03) 9820 2655 Fax (03) 9820 9886
email cota@cota.org.au
www.cota.org.au