The number one issue that comes up time and time again when we are talking with older people is their struggles with cost of living. We know that this is not an age-specific concern, but during 2025, thanks to some funding from the Wyatt Trust, we were able to undertake some deeper research with people 50 and over, to find out more about how they were experiencing the cost of living crisis, and what might make a difference to them. What we found is that tailored navigation services with peer mentors could offer support and build confidence. And that the very complex systems designed to support were often so complex that eligible people weren’t able to access them. Creating a new, targeted, navigation program and simplifying the concession system are two more of our policy recommendations.

Older South Australians are being hit hard by rising living costs. Older women are especially vulnerable.

Housing, energy, and food expenses continue to increase, placing people on low or fixed incomes under significant strain. Many are skipping meals, delaying essential home repairs, or withdrawing from social activities just to cope.

For people aged 50–65, the situation is even more challenging. Often they are impacted by ageism and work opportunities are harder to find. Health events might impact, but they are not eligible for assistance through My Aged Care or the Age Pension and often have little knowledge of the supports that are available to them. Many fall through gaps in the system and only seek help once they reach crisis.

A Practical, Preventative Solution: Life Navigation Service

COTA SA has proposed a new Life Navigation Service to provide personalised, practical support that helps older people make informed decisions, navigate services, and avoid crisis.

This program is a ready-made, co-designed solution which also supports the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence.

The service includes two integrated streams:

1. Cost of Living Navigators

• One on one guidance to access concessions, services, and financial supports
• Coaching to build confidence and decision making capability
• Coordinated referrals and follow up
• Flexible delivery: in person, online, or phone

2. Lived Experience Mentors

• Trained peer volunteers delivering workshops statewide
• Normalising help seeking through relatable lived experience
• Strengthening community connection and early engagement

Impact

Our research tells us that this program, designed to be trauma-informed and person-centred, will improve financial security, wellbeing, resilience and social connection for people, and will help prevent crisis before it occurs.

If the support systems can be improved and streamlined, too, then many more people would find the help that is available, and be able to take back control.

We know that with the right support at the right time, older South Australians can avoid crisis, stay connected, and move forward with confidence.