About COTA NSW
Championing the rights and wellbeing of older people in NSW
The Council on the Ageing NSW (COTA NSW) is the peak body for people aged over 50 in NSW. We are an independent, consumer-based, non-government organisation focused on the needs, health and wellbeing of older people in NSW.
What we do
Our goal is to ensure older people in NSW continue to thrive. We work to ensure they are respected, consulted, included, represented and heard. By advocating with and on behalf of older people, we ensure their needs and concerns are addressed in policies and critical decision-making.
We’re here to listen
Everything we do is informed by the lived experience of older people. Through conversations, surveys, research and advisory groups, we consult with our members and supporters about what matters to them. We use that information to inform politicians, policy makers, service providers and the media on the views and needs of older people to ensure they are heard and acted on.
We’re here to help
We also provide information specifically targeted at the needs of older people. This includes producing newsletters, hosting online webinars and live events, or publishing useful resources on topics relevant to ageing and older people.
We’re here to provide support
Our members drive our work and strengthen our advocacy efforts to ensure NSW is a great place for people to live as they age. Our growing membership provides the opportunity for people aged 50 plus to connect with each other and join our community. Members can be involved in our activities as much or as little as they choose. Click here to become a member of COTA NSW.
Our history
COTA NSW has been making a positive difference since 1956.
Originally formed as the ‘Older People’s Welfare Council of Australia’ by the Council of the City of Sydney, NSW Council of Social Service and Sydney Rotary, we became the Council on the Ageing NSW in 1969.
From starting seniors’ centres in the 1950s to advocating for better aged care today, we continue to lead change that improves the lives of older people in NSW.
Over the decades, we’ve helped shape some of NSW’s most important initiatives for older people, including:
- NSW Meals on Wheels
- Seniors Week
- Carers NSW
- The Centre for Volunteering
- The National Masters Games
- Seniors Information Line
- The NSW Mature Employment Line
- NSW Grandparents Day