Participants are being sought for a series of Age Friendly Focus Groups to gather lived experience from across the Bundaberg Region to help shape a more inclusive future.
Led by Bundaberg Regional Council, the initiative is part of the “How Age-Friendly Are We?” project which explores the strengths and challenges older people face in everyday life.
Community Resilience and Connection portfolio spokesperson Councillor Tracey McPhee said the project marked a vital step in ensuring the region continued to support healthy, active ageing.
“As our population ages, it’s more important than ever that we listen to the voices of older people and those who support them,” Cr McPhee said.
“The interest in making communities better places to live for older adults is, to a large extent, driven by the recognition that the older population is growing.”
The focus groups will help Council identify what’s working well and where improvements can be made whether in transport, housing, social inclusion or access to services.
“We want to hear directly from people with lived experience throughout the Bundaberg Local Government Area.
“That includes older residents, carers, service providers, First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse community members as their insights will help us build a region that truly supports ageing well.”
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the findings would help shape future planning and community initiatives.
“By 2041, one in three Bundaberg residents will be aged over 65,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“This project is about making sure our region remains a great place to live for people of all ages and we’re proud to support a community-wide conversation that puts older residents at the centre.”
Focus groups will be held in various locations across the Bundaberg Region and will explore eight key areas recognised as essential to creating age-friendly communities:
• Outdoor spaces and buildings
• Transportation
• Housing
• Social participation
• Respect and social inclusion
• Civic participation and employment
• Communication and information
• Community support and health services
Focus group participants will attend a single 4-hour session, answering questions about their experiences in accessing outdoor spaces, buildings, transport and community involvement.
Tea, coffee and morning/afternoon tea is provided.
Confirmed dates are available online with more sessions and locations to be added.
Community members are encouraged to contact the Community Development team on 1300 883 699 or email comdev@bundaberg.qld.gov.au to learn more or express interest.
This project is funded by the Queensland Government.
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