Quality research into the needs of older people and the impact of government decisions and actions on them is a key aspect of the work of COTA. From this research and based on further input from older people, COTA develops policy positions and documents. These form the basis of our approach to governments and non-government organisations.
Listed below are our policy documents in reverse chronological order (oldest last).
National Policy Documents
COTA (ACT) is a member of an Australian wide organisation – COTA Over 50s. COTA (ACT) contributes to national policy positions through COTA Over 50s. National policy can be found at their site www.cotaover50s.org.au.
COTA (ACT) Policy Documents
ACT policy documents are developed directly by COTA(ACT) in consultation with the local community.
COTA FINANCE AND LIFESTYLE SURVEY. SEPTEMBER 2008
COTA (ACT) conducted a “Finance and Lifestyle Survey” designed to gather information which will be used to petition Territory and Federal Governments in the “Fair Go for Pensioners Campaign”
The survey produced information from some 699 households, representing the interests of 999 people and covering a range of lifestyle and spending issues.
The conclusions from this survey are that there is a significant segment of our senior population who find it difficult to regularly meet their normal living expenses, that there are other people living in abject poverty, and that a much larger section of the aged community is suffering such an erosion of living standards that their friendships, volunteering and social activities are suffering.
The attached newsletter provides a summary and overview of some of these findings.
Finance and Lifestyle survey outcomes
2008 ACT Budget Submission
View document (PDF)
For this year's ACT Budget (2008) COTA's submission included:
- Improved dental health care
- Increase in provision of facilities for independent living units and residential care
- Dedicated hospital ward for people awaiting a home placement
- Road safety and transport needs of older people
- Employment of people over 55
Submission to ACTION on the ACT Bus Service
View document (PDF)
A submission to ACTION identifying what COTA (ACT) considers to be priority transport issues for older people in Canberra.
Submission to Government on CALMS
View document (PDF)
A submission to the ACT government about the proposed increase in fees for the Canberra After Hours Medical Service (CALMS).
Submission to Government on Australian Citizenship Rules
View document (PDF)
A submission to the Commonwealth government about the proposed changes to Australian citizenship rules, especially in respect to older people.