New plan outlines vision for longer, better lives for all South Australians
The South Australian Government has released South Australia’s Plan for Ageing Well 2026 to 2036 — a bold and future-focused roadmap to ensure that as people live longer, they can also live better.
Shaped by the diverse voice and lived experiences of nearly 3,200 South Australians, the plan reflects what older people across the state told us matters most.
The most important issues identified are:
- Being safe and well
- Having peace of mind
- Feeling valued and visible
- Staying active, connected and included in their communities.
The plan outlines a strong, statewide commitment to celebrating ageing, improving accessibility and inclusion, strengthening communities, and ensuring fairer opportunities for those who face greater barriers to ageing well.
Staying active, connected and included in their communities was emphasised by older South Australians through the development of the plan.
Older people want economic empowerment and recognition of their abilities. They also value opportunities to learn new skills, reliable and varied transport options, and flexible work arrangements that acknowledge caring and other responsibilities.
Current initiatives for older people
Current initiatives include:
- Free metropolitan public transport for Seniors Card members
- Seniors Card partnerships offering discounts and deals through South Australian and national businesses
- Ongoing funding opportunities for community hubs
- Investing in public and community housing and changes to the construction code and planning rules for more accessible and adaptable housing.
These initiatives are already helping people overcome transport, cost and social barriers, supporting them to stay connected and engaged in the community.
Next steps
Strengthening collaboration across sectors and communities will be essential to creating a state where older people are valued, visible and supported to participate fully in society.
Organisations from all sectors are encouraged to consider how they can contribute and help create meaningful, lasting change for older South Australians into the future.
DHS's Office for Ageing Well will now begin on the first 5-year Action Plan (2026 to 2031), developed in close partnership with government, non-government organisations, community groups and older people themselves.
This will guide the first phase of implementation and outline the priority actions needed to bring the plan to life.