The Peninsula Advisory Committee for Elders (PACE) is celebrating a significant milestone in 2026 - 20 years of advising the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council on the issues that matter most to older residents.
Established in 2006, PACE was one of the first committees of its kind in Victoria. Made up of local residents aged 55 and over, the committee advises Council on everything from housing and transport to social inclusion and aged care - playing a direct role in shaping the Shire's approach to positive ageing.
Over two decades, PACE has helped drive meaningful change. Among its proudest achievements is its early and sustained advocacy around elder abuse, which led to community forums, training workshops for Shire staff and service providers, and the establishment of the Respecting Seniors Network. The committee also successfully advocated for the Shire to employ dedicated Positive Ageing Officers - beginning with a part-time role and growing to two full-time positions today.
Looking ahead, PACE continues to focus on issues including social isolation, dementia awareness, and end-of-life planning. Later this year, the committee will host a community awareness session on dementia and contribute to Dying to Know Day in August.
As the committee marks its 20th anniversary, celebrations are planned throughout the year - a testament to the volunteers, past and present, who have given their time to help make the Mornington Peninsula a great place to grow older.
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