Mark Speakman
NSW Liberal Leader
NSW Leader of the Opposition
Kellie Sloane
Shadow Minister for Health
Eleni Petinos
Shadow Minister for Sport
A NSW Liberals Nationals Government will invest $540,000 over three years to deliver a new pilot program in the Illawarra and South Coast to give seniors more opportunities to live active, healthy and socially connected lives.
Under the pilot program, Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council and Shoalhaven City Council would each be offered $60,000 a year for three years to provide free or subsidised active seniors' programs, expand existing or commission new programs and increase participation.
The pilot program will be designed to ensure seniors have access to affordable, high-quality exercise programs in their local community. The councils will be able to opt into the pilot and anyone with a current NSW Seniors Card in the three local government areas will be eligible for the classes.
The pilot will be independently evaluated after two years to measure health and social outcomes, as well as cost-effectiveness, with a view to further roll out in those local government areas and elsewhere.
NSW Liberal Leader Mark Speakman said keeping seniors active is good for people, and good for the community.
"We know that regular physical activity improves long-term physical and mental health, as well as increasing social engagement," Mr Speakman said.
"Keeping seniors active is a smart, preventative health investment that will benefit seniors and the broader community."
Shadow Minister for Health Kellie Sloane said the pilot program is about giving seniors more opportunities to stay active, engaged and connected.
"By working with local councils to provide or commission low-cost programs, we're helping older people live healthier lives while delivering a practical cost of living measure," she said.
"It's an investment in both the wellbeing of seniors and the sustainability of our health system."
Shadow Minister for Sport Eleni Petinos said the Illawarra and South Coast are home to thousands of seniors who value our region's natural beauty and strong sense of community.
"Too many are finding life harder under Labor, with rising costs of living and cuts to services and programs," Ms Petinos said.
"The Liberals have a clear plan to provide more support and deliver a better quality of life for local seniors."
