COTA SA valued being part of the consultation process that preceded this draft, and we welcome the opportunity to provide feedback.

As the peak body representing the rights, interests and futures of South Australians aged 50+, COTA SA supports a whole-of-life approach to public health — one that recognises the diversity and value of older people, and the significant demographic shifts shaping the future of health planning.

We commend the Plan’s emphasis on prevention, equity and collaboration. These principles closely align with COTA SA’s values and offer a solid foundation for sustained improvements in community wellbeing.

In responding to the draft Plan, we offer strategic commentary on key priorities that we believe will strengthen its impact and relevance — particularly as South Australia prepares for the realities of a rapidly ageing population. Our feedback draws on the lived experiences of older people, insights from our policy engagement, and established best practice in ageing and public health.

COTA SA welcomes the emphasis on co-design with people with lived experience and their communities, noting that older people are a significant and growing demographic in South Australia, but that ageing is not homogenous. LGBTI+, CALD, First Nations and regional older people all experience interactions with the health systems in different ways, and these perspectives need to be acknowledged.