The Civic Partnership and Ryman Healthcare have been awarded a prestigious Gold Quill in the Government Relations and Public Affairs category.
For over 40 years, the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Gold Quill Awards have recognised and awarded excellence in strategic communication worldwide.
Gold Quill is the only awards programme that honours the dedication, innovation, and passion of communicators on a global scale.
The 2022 campaign, entitled “Championing a solution for Australia's aged care system—a continuum of care,” was designed to build relationships with key stakeholders, decision-makers, and influencers and provide a reform option for Government consideration. It demonstrated how Ryman's model facilitates investment in high-quality aged care.
Central to the campaign was a discussion document that concluded that widespread adoption of a continuum of care model would provide better quality care for older Australians, reduce the cost of the aged care system to the taxpayer, alleviate pressure on the public health system, and increase housing supply.
A programme of communications, stakeholder engagement and public relations activities complemented the strategy.
Subsequently, in 2023, the Aged Care Taskforce was formed to review funding arrangements for aged care and develop options for a system that is fair and equitable for everyone.
Managing Partner, Jason Aldworth, said receiving the IABC Gold Quill Award of Merit for this work was testament to the passion, creativity, and hard work of the Civic and Ryman communication team members who contributed to the seamlessly integrated campaign.
“The outstanding quality of this work delivered with Ryman Healthcare and the ensuing meaningful business results meant that it was an obvious choice for our first ever IABC award entry,” he said.
“This win is not just about the award itself but also about the journey we’re on as an agency and the unique way we go about solving our clients’ business problems. It's the perfect demonstration of what we can accomplish when we combine our collective talents, interests, and determination.”
Ryman Healthcare Australia CEO Cameron Holland said the organisation was thrilled to be recognised for a campaign that has positively contributed to improving the aged care system for all Australians.
“Addressing the aged care crisis is one of the most urgent public policy issues in Australia and, as a trusted operator with 40 years experience caring for older people, we feel we have a responsibility to play an active, constructive role in that discussion,” said Holland.
“The discussion paper we released certainly resonated with politicians and policymakers at the highest levels, and has led to ongoing collaboration between Ryman and government that is already beginning to bear fruit. To not only have a new model of funding under consideration but to also be recognised with a Gold Quill for helping drive positive policy change is something we’re incredibly proud of at Ryman.”
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