Seniors reference group gets off to a good start

December 23, 2025

Advocare was proud to host the inaugural meeting of the Seniors Peak Body Consumers Reference Group on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 marking an important first step in strengthening the collective voice of older Western Australians.

As WA’s Seniors Peak Body, Advocare established this reference group to make sure older people’s voices are at the centre of policy development, advocacy and decision-making. The group will provide advice, insight and personal experience to help shape priorities in ageing, health, community services and other important areas of public policy.

The first meeting brought together a diverse and lively group of members from across WA, reflecting a wide range of backgrounds, regions and experiences. It was a great chance to get to know one another, start building connections, and begin meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most to older people.

Key highlights from the group’s discussion included addressing ageism, promoting fairness and quality in aged care, strengthening elder abuse prevention, improving communication and support for people experiencing cognitive decline, and ensuring equitable access to services across metropolitan, regional and remote communities.

Members spoke about their wish to remain active contributors to community life and to ensure older people are recognised, respected and heard for the vital roles they continue to play across our state.

Advocare’s Seniors Peak Body Manager, Bianca Marson Whait, also attended the day along with the Department of Communities Principal Policy Officer Seniors, Liz Harrison, and Mark Kinsela, Secretariat and CEO of COTA WA.

Bianca reflected, “I was really energised to see and feel such a strong sense of shared purpose and commitment around the table. It was a great start and I look forward to what’s to come in 2026 based on the input of this vital group.”

Read the group’s first Communique here.