Applications to join the Council of Elders are now open

The federal government has commenced the search for new members to join the Aged Care Council of Elders.

Established in 2021 following recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Council of Elders provides a crucial avenue for older Australians to have their voices heard on issues related to the quality and safety of care, and the rights and dignity of older people.

The Council is seeking individuals with a variety of experiences within the aged care sector, including those who are currently receiving aged care services at home or in residential facilities, as well as those who provide care for older people, or have worked within the aged care industry.

For this round of applications the government has specified that it is particularly interested in gaining input from Australians living in rural or remote areas, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those with experience in caring for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people or those in complex dementia care.

Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae has emphasised the importance of the Council in bringing diverse views to the government's attention.

“The Council of Elders plays a crucial role in bringing a range of diverse views and insights to government when it comes to aged care,” he said.

“I encourage every older Australian with lived experience of aged care and active community networks to nominate as a member of the Council of Elders. 

“Membership of the Council is a unique opportunity to represent the community and work alongside the government to build an aged care system that delivers world-class care for every older Australian.”

Being a member of the Council of Elders offers an opportunity to influence the development of aged care policies and contribute to a system that delivers high-quality care for all older Australians, providing independent advice to government via the Minister for Health and Ageing, Minister for Aged Care and Seniors and Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

Members of the Council gather feedback from the older Australians on key issues related to ageing and aged care and communicate these perspectives to government bodies.

To be successful, applicants must be 65 years or older with lived experience of aged care and be able to demonstrate active engagement within their communities.

Appointments to the Council will be for a term of up to two years.

Applications are open until September 26, with appointments set to begin at the start of next year.

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Further details on the application process can be found at www.health.gov.au/apply-to-council-of-elders-2026.