AUSTRALIA | Nine new members to the Council of Elders have been announced, offering a unique voice to benefit Australia's ageing population.
The Albanese Labor Government has appointed nine new members to the Aged Care Council of Elders as it enters its fifth year providing advice and unique perspectives on the experience of older Australians in aged care.
Marilyn Beaumont OAM, Fred (Federico) Marrone, Warren Martens, Ann Robinson, Bruce Nelson, Pam Hegarty, Robyn Abrahams, Barbara Buzzard, and Roberta (Bobbie) Kidd have been announced as the new members set to join the Council of Elders.
They will join returning members: Council Chair Anne Burgess AM, Dr Ponniah Anandajayasekeram, Associate Professor John Cullen AM, William (Uncle Benny) Hodges, and Russell Westacott.
The Council is a diverse group of older people representing the make-up of modern Australia, which delivers advice to government on how best to support older people in aged care.
Members represent a cross-section of the community and are based in every state and territory.
The Australian Government established the Council in 2021 following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which called for an advisory body on quality and safety of care, and the rights and dignity of older people.
Appointments are for a term of up to two years, commencing from January 2026.
The new members of the Council replace outgoing members Valma (Val) Fell OAM, Gwenda Darling, Gillian Groom AO, Aunty Lyn Cullinane, Dr John Davis, Anna Harrison AM JP, Julie Rankin and Lyn Whiteway.
These outgoing members have been integral to supporting the Government throughout the process of aged care reform, including the implementation of the new Aged Care Act in 2025.
Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae MP, said the Council of Elders truly is the voice of older people across Australia, and that the national aged care system is much better off for their practical, passionate insights and diverse experience.
“I am excited to work with the Council’s new members as we work to bed down a new person-centred and rights-based aged care system,” said Rae.
“I’m deeply grateful for the work of outgoing members of the Council, particularly during the implementation of the new Aged Care Act, and wish them well as they continue to make a positive contribution to our nation and our aged care sector.”
Council Chair, Anne Burgess, said it was critical for ensuring older peoples’ voices are front-and-centre in government decision-making.
“I’m honoured to continue chairing this important Council and look forward to working with this remarkable cohort of new and returning members,” said Burgess.
“I would like to express my thanks for the contributions of retiring members. It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to work with you.”
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