The Planning, Development and Engagement Process (How we developed the Age Friendly Plan) 

The City’s Age Friendly Reference group was formed in May 2023. Over three months (May, June and July), the group met to identify existing opportunities, gaps, challenges and potential actions that could be included in a draft plan. Representatives from the following organisations contributed their experiential learnings to the reference group: Advocare WA, Carers WA, Council on the Ageing WA, Dementia Australia WA, Department of Communities, Herald Avenue Seniors Centre, Queens Park Seniors Club, Rostrata Family and Neighbourhood Centre, Tamil Association of WA and Seniors Accommodation Services (Rossmoyne Retirement Village, Wilson Retirement Village and Caprice Place Independent Living Units).

What we heard through our initial consultation with the age friendly reference group that has informed our draft plan:

Feedback from the age friendly reference group was sought under the eight interconnected domains of the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Age Friendly Cities Framework. The following considerations were discussed:

• Communication and Information: older people want to receive information in alternative formats including face to face, hard copy and large print.
• Social Participation: older people value intergenerational events and programs, as well as events that celebrate older people and carers.
• Respect and Social Inclusion: opportunities for the City to engage with older people on issues that matter to them.
• Civic Participation and Employment: older people wish to be provided with flexible employment and volunteering opportunities.
• Outdoor Spaces: the reference group requests more focus on even and well-lit footpaths and increased seating areas.
• Housing: Older people request more affordable housing options in City of Canning.
• Transportation: Older people want improved and increased public transport services.
• Community and Health Care: value ongoing partnerships and collaborations with peak body organisations for older people, including emphasis on protecting against elder abuse through education and awareness.

Please note – the City will undertake a broad public consultation process to inform the finalisation of this plan, which will primarily include older people and carers.