Aged Care Council of Elders — applications open for 2026

Until 26 September, the Australian Government is seeking applications from older people with lived experience of the aged care system to join — from January 2026 — the Aged Care Council of Elders.

Established by the federal government 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 — and delivering advice to government on how best to support older Australians in aged care, the Council of Elders is a diverse group of older people representing the make-up of modern Australia.

Encouraged to apply are those whose experience of aged care includes:

• caring for an older person or having worked in aged care;
• receiving services at home or living in residential aged care;
• living in rural or remote locations;
• culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities;
• care for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; and
• dementia care.
   

“The Council of Elders plays a crucial role in bringing a range of diverse views and insights to government when it comes to aged care,” Australia’s Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae said. “I encourage every older Australian with lived experience of aged care and active community networks to nominate as a member of the Council of Elders.

“Membership of the Council is a unique opportunity to represent the community and work alongside the government to build an aged care system that delivers world-class care for every older Australian.”

Applications close 5 pm on Friday, 26 September 2025, and appointments will be for a term of up to two years, commencing from January 2026.

Details on how to apply are available here, via the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

More information about the Council of Elders and the Terms of Reference is available here, via the council’s website.

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