We welcomed a large crowd of COTA NSW members and supporters to our Annual General Meeting at the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts on December 4th. COTA NSW President Dr. David Scott welcomed attendees and reiterated the importance of ensuring that our organisation continues to ensure that all voices are heard.

Have you checked out the COTA NSW Little Book of Savings? The easy-to-read booklet is full of tips on how to save on your bills like energy and water. You’ll find plenty of helpful resources that are either free or inexpensive.

As the CEO of Council on the Ageing (COTA) NSW, I’m privileged to witness the incredible contributions that older people make to our communities. From volunteers dedicating their time to charitable causes to mentors guiding younger generations, the stories of older adults doing extraordinary things are really inspiring. But as I reflect this NSW Seniors Festival, I am reminded that the most privileged part of my role is seeing the everyday contributions, often quiet and unsung, that have the most lasting impact. I remember when I visited a local social club for older adults that my mum attends. Just a small group meeting weekly to share stories, enjoy activities, and connect with each other. What struck me was how much these gatherings meant to the participants, not just for the activities, but because they’ve built a strong sense of community and mutual support. They check in on one another, celebrate life’s milestones, and create an environment where each person feels valued. I saw how these interactions reduce feelings of isolation and provide the kind of emotional support that can be life-changing. This experience beautifully illustrates the invaluable contributions older adults make, not through grand gestures, but through consistency, care, and connection. It’s in these everyday acts that we see the heart of what makes society work — people looking out for each other, sharing their knowledge, and building relationships that last. At COTA NSW, I see countless older people offer their time, talents, and wisdom in ways that might not make the news but are no less significant. Whether it’s looking after a neighbour, teaching a younger person a new skill, or participating in a local group, these actions form the foundation of resilient communities. In a society that celebrates achievement and productivity, it’s easy to forget that a life well-lived isn’t defined solely by outward success or recognition. Sometimes, the most extraordinary thing we can do is simply show up for one another. Older adults, given their life experience, understand this deeply. They know that the key to a fulfilling life lies in how we engage with and contribute to the world around us, no matter how small the gesture. These accomplishments don’t make headlines, but they are the things that hold communities together and make life richer for everyone. We must continue to recognise and celebrate these contributions, but not just during the NSW Seniors Festival. We need to celebrate and value older adults all year round by honouring their contributions, upholding their dignity, and creating spaces where they can thrive. It’s essential that we create environments where all people, regardless of age, feel empowered to contribute in ways that matter to them. To everyone who contributes to the well-being of others, no matter how small the act may seem, I say thank you. You are making an immeasurable difference. Not a member? COTA NSW Membership is FREE. Become a member by clicking here. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@cotansw.com.au Gohar Yazdabadi is the Chief Executive Officer of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) NSW, the peak organisation for people aged 50+ in NSW. Keynote NSW Seniors Festival, first published in The Senior, March 2025.

A leading expert in housing solutions for older people has called for better product and technology design to enable more people to remain in their homes.

AGMs can tend to be dry, but not when your guest speaker is the wonderful Hugh Mackay! Hugh spoke on Kindness – the antidote to loneliness. He said that kindness is about meeting people’s deepest psychological need – to be noticed and appreciated. This can counter the current epidemic of loneliness, where 25% of Australians have reported that they feel lonely most of the time. And this was in 2019, before the pandemic.

New research into the treatment of older workers shows that many mature-age employees report experiencing discrimination in the workforce due to their age and believe they are not receiving the same opportunities provided to other workers.

New research released by the COTA (Council on the Aging) Federation has revealed that a staggering percentage of NSW carers aged 50+ are grappling with greater financial stress and emotional burden than others in the community.

The cost of living for Australians is a growing concern, and older Australians have not been immune to the financial pressure of ever-increasing cost of living pressures.

In Australia, Stroke is one of the biggest killers. According to the AIHW, it kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer [1]. In addition, suffering a stroke is more common in older age groups with over 2 in 3 (71%) people who had a stroke were aged 65 and over [2].

Dementia is a significant and growing health and aged care issue in Australia that has a substantial impact on the health and quality of life of people with the condition, as well as their family and friends [1]. With almost 10 percent of Australians over the age of 65 suffering from this condition...

Changing careers as a mature worker is becoming more common as Australians live longer and workforce capacity issues challenge many sectors. In addition, the COTA Australia’s SOTON 2023 report found that older workers are retiring later, with 24% of Australians over the age of 50 thinking that they will never retire [1].