Older Persons Advisory Committee

The Older Persons Advisory Committee (OPAC) is a representative group of Port Phillip residents, aged 55 years and over, who are passionate about the role of older people in the community. Committee members are keen to share their skills, knowledge and experience, to make a difference.

The OPAC assists Council by providing advice, advocacy and feedback on all issues that affect the health and wellbeing of older residents in the City of Port Phillip. This includes issues raised by older residents. The OPAC also assists Council by providing advice and feedback in relation to policies, plans and services affecting older people. The OPAC supports and advocates for the delivery of significant Council events, activities and services relevant to older persons.

Key focus areas

• Ageism
  To raise awareness of ageism and advocate against the discrimination of older people. Including in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Aged Care Reform/Royal Commission
  Based on relevant data and information, OPAC to consider, address, and advise on the Commonwealth Aged Care Reforms (ACR) as they relate to Council and other aged care services in the City of Port Phillip.
• Health, Safety and Physical Environment
  To actively consult/advise on new Council Plan to ensure issues affecting older people in relation to health, safety and physical environment in Port Phillip are actioned in the Plan.
• Housing and Homelessness
  To advocate for housing for older residents including social and public housing, with a focus on older women, affordability and ageing in place.
• Environmental Sustainability
  To advocate and raise awareness and impact of climate change on older persons.
• Communication/Digital Literacy
  To ensure Council is kept informed of any issues or new ideas from older residents and relevant community groups.
• Governance
  To ensure OPAC is practicing good Governance and delivering on being Council's peak advisory body for older people of Port Phillip.

The OPAC endorses the United Nations' Principles For Older Persons, including independence, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity.

Achievements

Since its inauguration in February 2000, the OPAC has:

• formed a collaborative working relationship with Council and Staff
• advised and informed Council on issues concerning older persons
• established links with other advisory groups to Council, Council on the Ageing (COTA) and other relevant local organisations
• advocated for the development of the Linking Neighbours program and Seniors register
• submitted proposals to Council regarding:
  • participation of older residents in community events
  • practical ways of promoting a more cohesive community and sense of belonging for older residents
  • advocate for safer streets for older persons.
• supported the City of Port Phillip Age-Friendly Cities Project
• participated in City of Port Phillip Reviews on various service deliveries
• participated and advised on Council Plans
• members of the OPAC sit on Council and Community working parties for sustainability and key development projects
• initiated and facilitated forums and events including the City of Port Phillip Seniors’ Festival and OPAC Annual Forum
• initiated and now participate in Statewide forums for Older Person’s reference committees.

We want to hear from you

Are you an older person living in Port Phillip?

OPAC members encompass a wide range of backgrounds and views, the OPAC is accessible and engaged.

Do you have concerns or great ideas that would improve the lives of this city's older population?

Every year the OPAC run a forum on a topic that is important to you.

Let us know by contacting the Coordinator Grants and Community Building:

Online: Online Services
Phone: 03 9209 6777
Address: The City of Port Phillip, Private Bag 3, Post Office St Kilda VIC 3182

Committee Terms of Reference

Together with all other advisory and consultative groups to the City of Port Phillip, the Older Persons Advisory Committee (OPAC) was reviewed in 2021. The review recommended the continuation of the OPAC and new terms of reference were developed and adopted. Endorsed by Council June 2021. The Committee meets monthly usually on the first Monday of the month, committee members only.

View the terms of reference at Advisory Committees.