International Day of Older Persons 

Older Victorians bring valuable experience and insight that enrich our communities in countless ways. Age should never be a barrier to participation or a reason for unfair treatment. In Victoria, laws protect older people from discrimination and support their continued contribution to society. More than half of Victorians over the age of 65 years volunteer to support their community in a variety of ways.  

International Day of Older Persons is a great reminder that growing older is an achievement and ageing is cause for celebration.  

Globally, the number of older people (defined as those aged 65 years or older) tripled from around 260 million in 1980 to 761 million in 2021. Between 2021 and 2050, the global share of the older population is projected to increase from less than 10 per cent to about 17 per cent.  

In Victoria, people aged 65 years and over will increase from 17 per cent in 2022 to between 25 and 27 per cent in 2071.  

This year’s theme is ‘The age of longevity: rethinking systems for longer lives’. This theme encourages us to consider how we can create more age-inclusive communities as people live longer and healthier lives.  

At CFA we are rethinking our approach to volunteering, recognising the diverse communities our members represent. Many of our older volunteers bring a lifetime of skills, knowledge, and experience that enrich the organisation and help shape the next generation of CFA members.  

By showing your support for this day, you acknowledge that older people are respected, valued, and integral to the CFA and the communities we serve. Their contribution continues to make our organisation stronger every day.  

Here are some ways your brigade can get involved:  

Chat with your brigade members or colleagues that hold breadth of knowledge   

If we take the time to get to know our brigade members who have years of skills and knowledge, we can learn something, strengthen connections with our brigades and workplaces, and engage in meaningful conversations.  

Increase your own understanding of age inclusion to help you create an inclusive environment  

• Complete the Generational Diversity Inclusion eLearning module on CFA’s Learning Hub. Reflect on your learnings about assumptions: What can you do to challenge these assumptions?  

• Check out the resources and webinars available at Older Persons Advocacy Network.  

• Read Shaping Perceptions: How Australian Media Reports on Ageing by the Australian Human Rights Commission to understand how the Australian media reports on ageing and older people.   

• Read about older people's rights by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.  

• Read the Ageing Well Action Plan (2022-2026) to understand the Victorian Government’s commitment to support Victorians to age well and continue to participate in the community.  

Promote and celebrate the success of older people within CFA  

• Host a recognition event celebrating the success and achievements of older member/s in your brigade or community.  

• Nominate an eligible member for CFA Honours and Awards, eg Brigade-initiated awards and recognition, Australian Fire Service Medal, National Medal, National Emergency Medal.  

Volunteer your time or engage in social activities   

A lot can be done to make life easier for older people. Find out about organisations in your area that work with the elderly and see what you can do to help.  

Happy International Day of Older Persons. I look forward to continuing this important conversation. 

Scott Turner, Deputy Chief Officer West Region  

CFA Ambassador - International Day of Older Persons