Seniors Plan 2007 - City of Stirling - The Western Australian ...

Seniors Plan 2007

FOREWORD
I have great pleasure in presenting to you the City of Stirling Seniors Plan 2007.
This Plan is the first time that the City has produced a dedicated document
that outlines the vision and future directions that the City will take to ensure that
older citizens living in Stirling will have access to stimulating, challenging and
exciting activities, services, events and programs. The Plan also recognises the
importance of safety for seniors and the provision of support for those whose
health and circumstances require these services.
This Plan demonstrates the City’s awareness of and commitment to its older citizens, whose numbers are
growing rapidly. This group of people is a rich resource for our community that should be carefully nurtured.
The City of Stirling considers that its role in respect of its older citizens is to:
• Maximise opportunities for older residents to be involved in their community and participate in
community activities.
• Take a leadership role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the City’s older residents.
• Facilitate continuing employment, both paid and volunteer, and learning opportunities for older
residents.
• Enhance the safety and security of older residents.
• Ensure that changes and future developments in planning and the built environment take into
consideration the special needs of older people.
In creating this Plan we have consulted widely with the community, as well as carefully researching
current thinking and knowledge about successful ageing. This Plan is dynamic and will be reviewed
and updated regularly to keep up to date with our changing community.
I would like to thank the community members who contributed to focus groups and surveys for their input
into the Plan and also the staff of the City for their work in compiling and publishing this document.
Finally, I would like to emphasise that this Plan commits the whole of the City of Stirling to addressing
the needs of the older members of the community. As well Council is committed to working in
partnership with Federal and State Government authorities, educational facilities and the private
sector to enhance the development of Stirling as a community for all ages
Cr Terry Tyzack. Mayor, City of Stirling

Vision
Assisting older City of Stirling residents to enhance their quality of life through maintaining their
involvement in the community.
Purpose
To identify changes that need to be made to City of Stirling services and facilities in the next
five years and beyond in order to accommodate the expected increase in the proportion of older
citizens in the community.
Aims
• To enable City of Stirling residents to maintain a positive connection with the community throughout
their lives.
• To modify the physical and social environment within the City of Stirling in such a way as to
reduce or postpone the incidence of disability or dependency among older residents
• To provide optimal assistance and support to those who need it in order that they may continue
to be involved in the community

Table of Contents
Foreword 2
Vision 3
Contents 5
Introduction 7
Who is this plan for? 11
Strategic planning in the City of Stirling 13
Profile of City of Stirling seniors now and in the future 17
City of Stirling facilities and services for older CITIZENS 19
Current research 23
Consultation 29
Addressing the needs 31
Areas for development 33
Action plan 36
Alternative Formats
This document can be made available in alternative formats if needed. Please contact Council
Support on 9345 8555.
Language Assistance
For language assistance please contact TIS (translating and interpreting services)
on 131 450 and ask them to contact the City of Stirling on 9345 8555.

INTRODUCTION
Why does the City of Stirling need this plan?
• Already a quarter of Stirling’s residents are aged 55 plus, with this proportion is expected to
increase in the future.
• Stirling has twice as many residents aged 55 and over as any other Local Government Authority
in Western Australia.
• It is of benefit to the whole community if people are able to live active and productive lives for as
long as possible.
• Our seniors are the repository of a vast store of knowledge, experience, wisdom and expertise,
which is one of the community’s major assets. We need to plan ways to enable this wealth to be
shared with the rest of the community.
• Most of us, as we age, experience some decline in eyesight and hearing and some degree of
slowing down in mobility and cognitive processes. The negative effects of this can be minimised
if our environment is planned to allow for it.
• We are all ageing. Improvements begun now will benefit all of us at some time.
The Ageing Population
Population ageing is a worldwide phenomenon which is just beginning to have an impact on western
societies and which will increase until at least the middle of the 21st century. The major causes are
improvements in health and nutrition leading to an increase in life expectancy of more than 20 years
since 1950, the increased birth rate following World War II – the “baby boom” – and the declining
birth rate in recent years. The ageing of the population presents both opportunities and challenges
to governments at all levels. The opportunities are probably most apparent at the local government
level, with more retired people willing and able to contribute to their local community if the physical and

social environment is right. The challenges are in shaping a community that enables all of its members
to maximise their enjoyment of life and offers them the chance to contribute in their own way.
Research has shown that some of the most important factors in achieving happiness and satisfaction
into old age are:
• maintaining good physical health;
• being active and busy;
• having good relationships with friends and family; and
• maintaining a positive attitude.
(Transitions in Ageing, WA Office for Seniors Interests and Volunteering and Patterson Market
Research, 2006).
The concepts of positive and healthy ageing are frequently used to describe a good experience of
growing older. Positive ageing is best explained in the following quotation:
The concept of positive ageing embraces a number of factors including health, financial security,
independence, self-fulfilment, community attitudes, personal safety and security, and the physical
environment. The underpinning premise is that the years of “older age” should be both viewed
and experienced positively. The focus is therefore not only on the experience of older individuals,
but also on younger generations’ attitudes, expectations, and actions regarding ageing and
older people.
(New Zealand Statement to the Second World Assembly on Ageing, Madrid 2002).
Healthy ageing (sometimes called health ageing) is a related concept which places more emphasis
on supporting the physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing of older people in order that they
may continue to make a positive contribution to society.
By adopting the concepts of positive and healthy ageing and working with their older citizens to
establish age-friendly environments, governments can reap the benefit of an increased population of
mature, experienced people who have the time, energy and interest to contribute to the wellbeing of
their communities.
Governments also have a duty to provide for those citizens of any age who need support and care
and it is inevitable that, as the population ages, there will be increasing numbers of older people
who need some level of support or assistance. The proportion of younger people potentially able to
provide this support, either informally for family or friends or as paid carers, will decrease. Thus it
will be an ongoing challenge to communities to provide an optimum level of care in a cost-effective
manner.
Government Initiatives
Australian governments have taken a lead in strategic planning for an ageing population.
The Commonwealth Government’s National Strategy for an Ageing Australia (2001) and the Western
Australian Government’s Active Ageing Strategy (2004) are important documents in this field. In
addition the Australian Local Government Association’s Planning for an Ageing Community website
provides a range of resources to assist strategic planning at the local government level.

WHO IS THIS PLAN FOR?
This plan has been developed in the interests of the rapidly increasing numbers of older citizens in
the City of Stirling.
There is currently no consensus on the terminology used to describe this group of people. Terms
such as seniors, older people, mature-aged, elders and baby boomers are used to refer to all or
part of the cohort. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) refers to all those 55 years and over
as older people, and those aged 55 to 74 years as mature-aged adults. A difficulty in addressing
the needs of the whole group is that the younger and healthier members do not see themselves as
fitting in to the category of older people or seniors and are reluctant to admit that they may have
any special needs.
There is no consistency about what constitutes a senior citizen or an older person. Many different age
criteria are used, varying from 45 plus to 70 plus. Currently non-assessed City of Stirling services for seniors,
such as podiatry and membership of autumn clubs, are available to people aged 55 and over. This is a
convenient arbitrary starting point for a consideration of the needs of older people. In fact, however, there
is no hard and fast line. Older people are not a homogeneous group. Their abilities, interests, attitudes
and experiences are as varied as any other age group. Many older people are fit, active and independent
and require very little special consideration, while some younger people are for various reasons unable to
participate in activities directed at younger age groups. These people may well benefit from being able to
access services and activities aimed towards seniors, while the whole community will benefit from many of
the strategies proposed.
Universal Access
As a general principle, where facilities are provided in such a way that they are accessible to those
who may experience some difficulties, such as older people or people with disabilities, then they
are even more accessible to those who do not experience such difficulties. This principle underlies
the concept of ‘Universal Access’. The City of Stirling is committed to providing universal access
where possible to all of its services. The City’s Access and Inclusion Plan 2006 – 2010 is based on
this concept and it also underlies this strategy.
At the 2006 Census, Stirling had some 20,651 males and 25,272 females, a total of 45,923 persons,
aged 55 and over. Following the 2001 Census, it was predicted that Stirling’s older population
would reach 46,000 by mid-2010, but in fact that has almost been reached already.
The 2006 Census figures show that more than a quarter of Stirling’s 176,871 residents are now
aged 55 or over. Stirling’s population is older than that of the Perth metropolitan area as a whole
and it seems likely that Stirling’s population will continue to age faster than some of the surronding
areas.
11

STRATEGIC PLANNING IN THE CITY OF STIRLING
Two key documents guide the development of the City of Stirling strategy:
• City of Stirling Strategic Plan 2004-2008 (Last reviewed February 2006); and
• Community Needs Study May 2005.
Both of these documents make reference to the needs of seniors.
City of Stirling Strategic Plan 2004-2008
The Strategic Plan was developed in consultation with Council and the community and plays a
fundamental role in setting direction. It outlines a number of desired outcomes, of which the following
are particularly relevant to older citizens:
Our Community
• improving services and providing choices for our seniors to improve their lifestyle;
• creating a safe and secure City;
• enhancing community health and wellbeing;
• fully using technology to improve communication and access to services;
• bringing people together as part of the festivals, celebrations and culture of the City;
• enhancing local neighbourhoods and neighbourliness;
• encouraging and supporting volunteers.
Our Built and Natural Environment
• Further developing choice and quality in the built environment including:
• flexibility and variation in residential areas, including urban infill and some nodes of appropriate
medium density throughout the City;
• increasing the range of options for recreation and leisure;
• managing parks and public open space to best meet community needs; and
• encouraging, and in some cases establishing, the infrastructure for effective transportation.
Economic Opportunity
• Actively developing “liveable neighbourhoods” with mixed-use development, revitalised ribbon
shopping and local shopping centres, and a wide range of neighbourhood facilities.
The City of Stirling as an Organisation
• Proactively managing change.
13

Community Needs Study May 2005
The Community Needs Study identified the following priorities:
For residents:
1. increased aged and disabled services and facilities;
2. increased maintenance of footpaths and cycleways;
3. increased community consultation;
4. increased number of verge junk collections each year; and
5. increased number of community events.
For businesses:
1. increased maintenance of footpaths and cycleways;
2. increased aged and disabled services and facilities;
3. increased street lighting;
4. increased number of car parking bays in town centres / business areas; and
5. increased number of verge junk collections each year.
Interestingly, the younger respondents to the Community Needs Survey placed greater emphasis
on aged and disabled services, perhaps influenced by the common perception that older people
are frail and dependent, while the older people themselves placed more emphasis on measures to
allow them to remain active, such as street lighting and footpath maintenance.
Conclusion
The community is generally satisfied with the services currently provided for frail aged and disabled
people, though residents would like to see services increased if funds were available. There is also
a demand for improvements in infrastructure, which would benefit the whole community but would
be of particular benefit to older people.
Other Key Strategic Plans
In addition to the documents cited above, there are a number of other strategic plans which guide
the City of Stirling’s policies and actions. These include the Access and Inclusion Plan 2006 –2010;
the Housing Strategy; the Integrated Transport Strategy and the Green Plan 2. These plans have
been developed in the light of state and federal government strategies and in consultation with the
community. The City has also recently commenced a process of Local Area Planning, looking at the
specific needs of each area of the City in turn. These and other planning initiatives underlie many
of the actions outlined in this Seniors Plan.
15

55-59
2004
0 5,000 10,000 15,000
Number of People
Population aged 65 years or more -
At 30 June 2006 - Australia
‘000
2750
PROFILE OF CITY OF STIRLING SENIORS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE
At the 2001 Census there were more than 40,000 people aged 55 and over in the City of Stirling,
representing nearly 25 per cent of the population of the City of Stirling. This figure is projected 2000 to
grow to 58,000 or 29 per cent by 2021. (See graph below.)
The graph on the right shows that throughout the City, the older population is consistently higher
than that of comparable communities.
2500
2250
1750
1500
1986 1991 1996 2001 2006
85+
75-79
Stirling’s Projected Senior Population
2004 – 2021
2021
2016
% of Older People by Ward
% of Older People by Ward
55 - 74 years
75+
years
Balga
65-69
2011
2006
Coastal
55-59
2004
Doubleview
0 5,000 10,000 15,000
Number of People
Hamersley
Population aged 65 years or more -
At 30 June 2006 - Australia
‘000
2750
2500
Inglewood
Lawley
2250
2000
Osborne
1750
1986 1991 1996 2001 2006
1500
Stirling
% of Older People by Ward
Perth
55 - 74 years
75+
years
Balga
0% 10% 20% 30%
WA
Coastal
Sources: Western Australia Tomorrow. WA Planning Commission Nov 2005. “Community Analysis” Stirling” by The Public Practice Ltd based on
ABS Census 2001 data.
Doubleview
Hamersley
17

The graph opposite shows that,
though some older citizens of the
community have substantial incomes,
the majority are managing on low
incomes. It is important to ensure
that these people are not precluded
from accessing community initiatives
because of financial constraints.
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
OVER 55
OVER 65
5
Neg/Nil 1-79 80-199 200-299 300-399 400-499 500-599 600-699 700-799 800-999 1000-1499 1500+
Weekly Individual Income ($)
CITY OF STIRLING FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR OLDER citizens
0
History
The City of Stirling has for many years been a leader in the field of service provision for its elderly or frail
residents. For more than 30 years the City of Stirling, through its Community Services Business Unit,
has provided a Meals on Wheels service to eligible residents. In 1985 the government introduced the
Home and Community Care Programme (HACC), which provides support to frail aged people and
people with ongoing disabilities in their own homes so that they do not need to be admitted prematurely
to residential care. Since 1985 the City of Stirling has received funding from this programme and has
expanded its aged care services to include not only Meals on Wheels but also domestic assistance,
personal care, respite for carers, day care (including multicultural day Care), Podiatry, Social Support
and an extensive Volunteer Transport programme. These services have been provided at very little
cost to ratepayers. However, only a very small proportion of the population need this type of assistance.
The majority of those who receive services through the City of Stirling HACC programme are aged
over 75, and they constitute only a small proportion of this age group.
Fit and healthy older adults have traditionally been supported through the provision of buildings,
formerly called Autumn Centres, for their exclusive use. Each Autumn Centre was the home base of
an Autumn Club, which was run by its members but assisted by the City of Stirling. In recent years
it has become evident that this type of support is becoming less and less relevant to today’s mature
adults. Baby boomers do not see themselves as separate from the rest of the community. While they
are still able to drive or use other forms of transport, most prefer to maintain ongoing interests or
develop new interests which may be unrelated to their age or geographical location. In recognition
of this, the role of the former Autumn Centres has changed. They are now Community Centres,
available for the use of all groups in the community, regardless of age. However, where Autumn Clubs
meet at the centres, they retain some special privileges. In addition to these Community Centres,
Community Recreation Centres provide a range of activities for all members of the community.
A Whole of City Approach
In keeping with their increased numbers and their increased profile within the community, the
needs of the older members of the community are no longer seen as solely the province of the
City’s community services business unit. Many business units are providing services and facilities
relevant to their needs. The purpose of this plan is to bring together these initiatives in an organised
manner, as well to identify any gaps that should be filled, so that all members of the community are
able to play an active role for as long as possible.
19

Current Services of Particular Relevance to Older citizens
Business Unit
Community Safety
Community Services
Disability Services Advisory
Committee
Engineering
Finance Services
Human Resources
Library & Information
Services
Activity
Ranger services
Security services
Community safety education
Community Safety Toolbox - A self-assessment kit for City of
Stirling residents to assist with the safety and security of resident’s
homes, cars, neighbourhood and personal safety.
Work in close partnership with WA Police
Work in partnership with and support Neighbourhood Watch
groups
Autumn Clubs
Financial counselling
Hobby groups and classes
Home and Community Care Services
• Meals on Wheels
• Domestic assistance
• Personal care
• Social support
• In-home podiatry
• Adult day centres
• Transport services
Podiatry clinics
Space/Rooms for community groups
Volunteer services
Access and Inclusion Plan implementation
Roads, footpaths and cycleways
Rates concessions
Employment
Provision of books, including large print, videos, CDs and other
materials
Books on Wheels
Internet access
Talks and workshops
21

Business Unit
Parks and Reserves
Policy and Strategic
Development
Recreation and
Cultural Services
Waste Management
Activity
Adult book clubs
Formal and informal social groups
Local history
Community Information Database
Mt Flora Regional Museum
Maintenance and improvement of parks
Outdoor sports areas, including golf courses
Maintenance of natural areas
Strategic planning
• Housing
• Transport
• Local Area planning
Heritage
Beach facilities
Passive recreation
Parks and reserves
Aquatic centres
Sports clubs
Clubs Forever
Living Longer Living Stronger
Community events
Follow My Lead walking groups
Hobby groups and classes
Sponsorship and exhibitions
Annual Art Award
Rubbish collection
Assistance with bins if needed
Recycling and waste minimisation
Regular verge pickups
22

CURRENT RESEARCH
The 21st century has seen unprecedented interest in the life experiences of older citizens. Research
has been conducted at all levels to find out what contributes to people ageing successfully. This
research has been driven by the realisation that a large number of healthy seniors, with their
collective wisdom and experience, should constitute a valuable resource to the community, as well
as by the need to minimise the economic impact of the ageing population.
A Digest of Recent Research and Planning
PUBLICATION DATE AUTHORITY SOME OF THE MAIN IDEAS
Active Ageing
– a policy
framework
International
Plan of Action
on Ageing
National
Strategy for
an Ageing
Australia
2002 World Health
Organisation
2002 2 nd World
Assembly
on Ageing
2002 Australian
Government
Population ageing is one of humanity’s greatest triumphs.
It is also one of our greatest challenges. As we enter the
21st century, global ageing will put increased economic
and social demands on all countries. At the same time,
older people are a precious, often ignored resource
that makes an important contribution to the fabric of our
societies.
The aim of the International Plan of Action on Aging
is to ensure that persons everywhere are able to age
with security and dignity and to continue to participate
in their societies as citizens with full rights.
Artificial and real barriers to older people’s participation
in economic and social life need to be removed. This
will require a different mind set about new infrastructure
e.g. housing design, location and availability; transport
services; communications technology, etc that is age
friendly for all members of society.
People have the right to feel safe and secure in their
homes and the community. The community also has
a responsibility to ensure that the potential for social
isolation is kept to a minimum.
Access to appropriate transport will be important to
enable older Australians to shop for food, visit friends,
go to the movies or visit the doctor or pharmacy.
The goal of the National Strategy for an Ageing
Australia is to deliver the best outcomes for all
Australians regardless of age.
We can expect to see demand for care services in the
home increase. We might see care being provided
to increasing numbers of older people with higher
level needs as a result of consumer expectations and
advances in communications and other technology,
as well as an increase in demand for lower level care
services.
23

PUBLICATION DATE AUTHORITY SOME OF THE MAIN IDEAS
Generations
Together – a
guide to the
WA Active
Ageing
Strategy
Submission
– Economic
Implications
of an Ageing
Australia
Australian
Local
Government
Population
Ageing Action
Plan
2004 WA Department
for Community
Development
2004 Australian Local
Government
Association
2004 Australian Local
Government
Association
Active ageing is the ongoing and meaningful
participation in social, economic, physical, cultural,
spiritual and community affairs.
The Active Ageing Strategy addresses ageing and older
people as a vital resource for the community. It enhances
the capacity of the community to employ and benefit from
the experiences and skills of ageing and older people.
A likely impact on municipal rates is the growing asset
rich, income poor ratepayer base. In this case ratepayers
may have considerable property, often the family home,
but have a low level of disposable income.
Another possible impact on municipal rates is the
expected increase in the proportion of the population
likely to have entitlements to pensioner rate concessions
as the population ages over the coming decades.
The restricted taxation base has led to an increased
reliance by local government on fees and user charges.
Local government’s reliance on user charges is becoming
increasingly unsustainable in an increasing asset rich,
income poor environment.
Older people are a significant and growing part of
local communities. This trend presents both daunting
challenges and real opportunities for local government.
Older people offer rich life experience, well honed skills,
knowledge and wisdom. These qualities significantly
contribute to the social fabric of local communities. But
our ageing population will also impact on planning and
service delivery, spelling real and growing challenges
for Australia’s 700 local government authorities.
24

PUBLICATION DATE AUTHORITY SOME OF THE MAIN IDEAS
A New
Strategy for
Community
Care – The
Way Forward
Economic
Implications
of an Ageing
Australia
Household
Use of
Information
Technology
2004 Commonwealth
of Australia
2005 Productivity
Commission
2005 Australian
Bureau of
Statistics
The Australian Government’s way forward will see
programmes operating in a more consistent and
coordinated way. Agreed assessment processes,
eligibility criteria, consistent accountability and quality
arrangements and targeting strategies are among
reforms required to achieve these aims.
Over the next several decades, population ageing is
expected to have significant implications for Australia
including health, labour force participation, housing
and demand for skilled labour.
Although local government is not the main provider
of health and aged care services, provision of human
services comprises around half of local government
expenditure. Ageing of the population will place
increasing pressure on expenditure.
but
People contribute more to a society than just through their
marketplace labour. Older Australians play a significant
role as volunteers, carers and community members. In
any case, the extra leisure that older people are enjoying
is a good like others; it just does not get picked up in
GDP estimates.
Overall, 60% of Australian adults aged 18 years and
over used a computer at home and 52% accessed
the Internet at home during 2004-05.
25

PUBLICATION DATE AUTHORITY SOME OF THE MAIN IDEAS
WA Housing
Strategy
Demography
WA
Population by
Age and Sex
2005 WA Deptment
of Housing
& Works
2006 Australian
Bureau of
Statistics
2006 Australian
Bureau of
Statistics
Aged and older population – care requirements can be
reduced through the provision of retro-fitting relevant
features in the first instance, but solutions such as
adopting adaptable housing design provisions
will provide more longer term benefits to ageing in
place.
Older West Australians will need access to housing
that is suited to their changing needs, usually smaller
houses, with well-established services (such as
medical facilities, home care, maintenance services
and security systems) that will enable them to live
independently for as long as they choose.
Design Principles for
Universal Access
Minor and inexpensive design changes assist the
disabled and the aged and reduce costly retrofitting
to modify the dwelling. This extends the dwelling’s
utility and reduces the need for relocation.
In 2004, life expectancy at birth for Western Australian
usual residents was 78.6 years for males and 83.3
years for females, slightly above the national averages
of 78.1 and 83.0 years respectively. Compared with
ten years ago, life expectancy at birth in Western
Australia has increased by 3.1 years for males and
2.1 years for females.
Population aged 65 years or more, Australia - At 30
June 2006 1 .
Transitions in
Ageing
2006 WA Office
of Seniors
Interests
Seniors who strongly agreed that they were ageing
successfully mentioned the following reasons for this
opinion most frequently:
• being in good physical health (48%);
• being active and busy (47%);
• having good relationships (happy marriage or
involvement with family or friends) (38%); and
• having a positive attitude (30%).
1
See chart on page 17.
26

PUBLICATION DATE AUTHORITY SOME OF THE MAIN IDEAS
Australian
Social Trends,
2006
2006 Australian
Bureau of
Statistics
Australians growing older
Many aspects of life today for people in their 50s are
different from 20 years ago. People at age 50 now can
expect to live longer with men living to 80.6 years and
women to 84.6 years (an additional 5.5 years for men
and 3.9 years for women between 1980-82 and 2002-
04). Both men and women are far more highly educated
and many more women in their 50s are in the labour
force than 20 years ago (37% in 1984 increasing to
62% in 2004). People in their 50s are less likely to have
children living with them (35% in 2001 compared with
43% in 1981) and are less likely to own their home
outright in (46% in 2003-04 compared with 56% in 1982).
Agefriendly
Built
Environments
– a Report by
Dr Keith
Suter
2006 Deptment of
Health and
Ageing
Australia’s low-density suburban development is not
particularly age-friendly. Features such as dispersed
development patterns, the lack of footpaths, separation
of land uses and car dependency all present significant
obstacles to the independence of seniors. For example,
if a person loses their driver’s licence they are greatly
restricted in where they can go and whom they can
meet.
The creation of an “older” society was one of the
greatest achievements of the 20th century with
dramatically increased life expectancy. More
should now be done to accommodate that society.
27

CONSULTATION
The City’s Role
In developing this plan, the City of Stirling consulted widely with the community. Two workshops
were held, one in the eastern and one in the western area of the City. While these were open to
the general public, invitations were also sent to organisations representative of seniors’ interests.
As well, a detailed survey was distributed through the City of Stirling libraries and a shorter survey
was available on the City’s website. In addition a short survey form was sent to shopping centres
in the City. The consultation generated considerable interest and produced many thoughtful and
worthwhile suggestions. On the negative side, as the surveys were only available in English there
was a low response from people from a non-English speaking background.
Services and Facilities Desired
Survey respondents were asked to rank in order of importance some key roles of the City of Stirling. The
order in which they were ranked was:
1. Plan ahead to accommodate changes in the community, such as the ageing population.
2. Assist and support community groups to provide needed services or activities.
3. Provide information about services, facilities and activities available to seniors within the City
of Stirling.
4. Provide more services and activities for its seniors.
5. Advocate with Federal and State government and other bodies for the provision of services and
facilities in the City of Stirling.
6. Provide funding to community groups that provide services and activities for seniors.
While individual responses varied, there was a strong consensus that the City of Stirling’s most
important roles are planning, coordination and information dissemination.
Those who completed a paper survey were asked to state whether they strongly agreed, agreed,
disagreed or strongly disagreed with a number of statements. The statements that received the
highest level of support were:
The City of Stirling should:
• Make information available about all activities for seniors available within the City of Stirling.
• Continue to provide Home and Community Care services to frail aged and disabled
residents.
• Continue to provide a nutritious Meals on Wheels service at minimal cost to consumers.
• Work with the State government to ensure the best possible public transport service within the
City of Stirling.
• Ensure that community facilities are accessible by foot and are served by footpaths.
29 29

Suggestions
Many suggestions were received from the public, both through the workshops and through the
surveys. These suggestions could be classified in a number of ways, but we have chosen to adopt
the five priority areas identified by the WA Active Ageing Strategy. Each of these has a number of
sub-headings showing areas of particular concern to City of Stirling residents. All suggestions, as well
as survey statements which received high support, were classified under the following headings and
sub-headings:
Community Awareness and Participation
• Provide adequate information about what is available and how to access it.
• Ensure that seniors are included in the whole community, not segregated.
• Consult seniors about matters that affect them.
• Assist older people to make new friends and connections within the community
• Support existing organisations and facilities rather than duplicating them.
Health and Wellbeing
• Enable older people to keep fit by facilitating affordable physical activities and health education
in their local area.
Employment and Learning
• Assist seniors to keep up to date with technology.
• Enable senior residents to keep their minds active by facilitating activities and events in their
local area.
• Enable senior residents to continue working and living in their familiar environment.
Protection and Security
• Ensure that there is adequate support and assistance available for those who need it.
• Respect the fact that many seniors have limited incomes and cannot afford high rates and
charges.
Planning and the Built Environment
• Provide a safe and attractive environment that encourages older people to go out.
• Ensure that seniors have access to appropriate transport.
This list was then circulated to all City of Stirling business units for comment on the practicability of
the proposals.
30

ADDRESSING THE NEEDS
Research and consultation has shown the following:
• There is a wide variety of activities available to older people in and around the City of Stirling.
• There is a need to make these activities more accessible in terms of;
• information about what they are and how to find out more about them;
• opportunities to try without commitment;
• transport.
• The community would like the City to facilitate a range of health and fitness and learning activities
in local centres.
• There is potential for existing City of Stirling facilities to be more fully utilised.
• Cost should be kept to a minimum.
31

• Some changes in development and infrastructure identified as being beneficial to seniors would
provide benefits to the whole community. These include:
• Mixed and adaptable housing.
• An improved range of transport options.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Social isolation is a major contributor to chronic disease, depression and premature death.
• Single person households are the fastest-growing residential category, putting people more at
risk of isolation.
• People are more likely to participate in the community if they feel they live in a safe
environment.
• There is expected to be a large increase in the number of people with dementia in the next
20 years.
• A higher proportion of people with mild to moderate dementia will remain in the community rather
than moving into residential care.
• More people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds will fall into the oldest age
groups.
• These people may be more likely to need services in their native language because ability to use a
second language can decline in old age.
• It is important to ensure that spoken and written communication is clear because:
• most peoples’ hearing and vision deteriorates as they get older;
• there will be more people in the community who have early stage dementia; and
• some older people will have had little education or may not understand English well.
• Residents are very satisfied with the City of Stirling’s existing Home and Community Care (HACC)
services for frail aged people.
• The extent of community care services within the City of Stirling will need to be increased, at least
in the short term, to cope with increasing numbers of frail aged people in the community.
• The City will need to decide how much it can increase its capacity to provide HACC or other
community care services.
• The provision of care services in the future may be influenced by national proposals for
changes in community aged care.
• It is probable that technology will play an increasing role in care for the frail aged and housebound
in the future, including:
• service coordination;
• monitoring of clients; and
• social connection for clients.
• In the long term, the effect of the strategies proposed in this plan should be to reduce the
proportion of the population needing support services.
32

AREAS FOR DEVELOPMENT
Strategic Area 1 - Community Awareness and Participation
During the consultation on which this plan is based, respondents consistently emphasised the
need for information about what activities and pursuits are available to older people within the
City of Stirling. Many also indicated a need for opportunities to try new activities in a supportive
atmosphere.
Most people of working age are easily able to travel outside of their own local area for both work and
recreational pursuits. They may leave their home early in the morning and go straight from work to
leisure pursuits before returning home, often late in the evening. They often do their shopping in a
centre near their work or on the way home. Many rarely see their neighbours and may be unaware
of having anything in common with them other than an address. As they get older, however, people
may have more leisure time. Their friends may still be working or may live some distance away. At this
stage in their lives they may seek new outlets for their energies and may prefer activities that are within
easy reach of their home. A crucial need at this time is to know or be able to find out what is available
to them and to have the opportunity to try new interests and activities in a friendly and encouraging
environment.
Strategic Area 2 - Health and Wellbeing
Many of those who were consulted during the development of this plan mentioned a need for activities
which promote good health and which are accessible both geographically and financially.
Studies of older people almost invariably list maintaining good health as one of the keys to successful
ageing. Fit and healthy people are more likely to want to be involved in activities, which in turn
33 33

contributes to their own wellbeing and that of others. For example, the City of Stirling depends on
healthy older citizens to maintain its volunteer services. In the future it will become increasingly
difficult to offer an effective Home and Community Care programme to large numbers of people
because of the shortage of available workers. It is in the interest of the whole community that
people be encouraged and supported to become fit and maintain their fitness so that they can
more easily maintain their connection with the community and their need for support is delayed as
long as possible.
Strategic Area 3 - Employment and Learning
Those people who responded during the consultation phase of this plan were divided in opinion
about whether or not they would like to continue in paid employment beyond the traditional retirement
age. However, there was a strong consensus that people wished to keep their minds and bodies
active and to have opportunities to learn new skills and to share their existing skills and experience
with others.
It is in the interest of the community that those who are willing and able continue working beyond
the traditional retirement age, as in many industries the supply of younger qualified people able to
replace them is diminishing. Many people would be willing to continue in paid employment if they
could work fewer and/or more flexible hours to fit in with other commitments. Those who choose
to retire want to continue to use their skills or develop new skills to keep their brains active. It has
been shown that keeping mentally active is a factor in the fight against Alzheimers Disease. These
people will benefit from having a range of volunteering and learning options available to them. The
community will also benefit as they pass on their skills and knowledge to others.
Strategic Area 4 - Protection and Security
The protection afforded by the City’s existing Home and Community Care programme rated very highly
with respondents to the consultation. Many people also mentioned concerns about safety, citing such
things as inadequate street lighting in some areas, adequacy of pedestrian crossings and police
response time.
Security in the home and in the community, and availability of support services are important
considerations for most people. It is especially important for the most vulnerable members of our
community, including the frail aged and those with disabilities, to know that community support and
assistance is available and within their means when it is needed. The City, both through its own
resources and by working in partnership with other organisations, can do much to ensure the actual
and perceived security of residents. Financial security is also a very important consideration for
older people, many of whom live on basic incomes.
Strategic Area 5 – Planning and the Built Environment
Many of those consulted talked about environmental factors that would make life easier for older
people – things such as availability of adaptable housing, local shopping centres and parks
accessible by footpaths, adequate seating, and accessible transport.
34

Housing, transport and the design and availability of footpaths, shopping centres and parks can
play a big part in maintaining people’s physical and mental health. If people are able to age in a
neighbourhood with which they are familiar, where they can walk to local shops and services and
catch public transport to other important destinations, they are more likely to stay in touch with the
community and so keep mentally and physically active. This in turn assists them to stay mentally and
physically healthy – and thus more likely to be happy - and delays the need for support services,
which may become more difficult to provide in the future.
THE CITY’S STRATEGIC ROLE
When considering the enhancement of services, programs and facilities, the City can select from a
range of roles. For instance, in some cases, the City may directly provide a service. In other cases,
the City may encourage and facilitate another provider to offer the service. Consultation has shown
that the older residents in the community see the City’s most important roles as planning, facilitation
and information provision. Other roles include service provision, where the City is best placed to
do this, and advocacy with other levels of government and with the private sector.
Key Roles
In implementing this Plan, the key roles for the City are the following:
• understand and plan for future changes in community structure;
• understand community needs and the services, programs and facilities that are available from all
providers;
• connect members of the community with the services or facilities that meet their needs. In most
cases, this will occur through the provision of information; and
• facilitate the development of or form partnerships to develop services and infrastructure to meet
community needs.
Implementation
This plan commits the whole of the City of Stirling to take measures that will result in Stirling becoming
a community in which people can age successfully. However in order to ensure that the plan is
carried out it is necessary to allocate responsibility for its implementation. As the business unit most
directly concerned with the development of this plan, Community Services is best placed to take on
this responsibility on behalf of the City.
The plan will be reviewed and updated every two years.
Feedback
The City of Stirling is always pleased to receive comments and suggestions about any of its
services and facilities. Where appropriate suggestions may be incorporated into future updates of
this plan. City of Stirling contact details are shown on the back cover of this plan.
35

ACTION PLAN
The actions outlined in this section reflect current, developing and future initiatives, both strategic
and operational, developed from research and consultation and designed to support the City of
Stirling’s growing senior population.
Strategic Area 1 - Community Awareness and Participation
The City of Stirling will maximise opportunities for older citizens to be involved in their community and
participate in community activities.
Strategy 1 – Ensure that all older citizens have access to accurate information
about community programmes and activities.
Many younger people now use the Internet as their primary source of information. Many seniors,
however, are either unfamiliar with the use of the Internet or do not have easy access to a computer.
While the number of senior Internet users is growing rapidly, it will be some time before this can be
used as the primary source of communication with this group. For most, flyers or newsletters delivered
to the mailbox and the local free community newspaper are the primary sources of printed information,
but even more important than this is person-to-person contact, which may be by telephone or face
to face.
Action Responsibility Timeline
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.1.3
1.1.4
1.1.5
Continue to provide and improve the
City’s Community Information Service.
All front-line staff to receive specialised
training in communication skills.
Staff members or trained volunteers
to be available at local community or
recreation centres to give information
on programmes and activities available
within the City of Stirling.
Publicity to be given to library staff as
a source of information on available
programmes, activities, clubs and events.
Publish a brochure outlining City of
Stirling programmes and activities
suited to seniors.
Library and Information
Services
All business units
in conjunction with
Human Resources
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2008/9
Library and Information
Services Marketing 2007/8
Community Services 2008/9
1.1.6
Ensure that all printed information is
accessible to older people. i.e.
• Sufficiently large print
• Clearly contrasting colours
• Plain English
Marketing
Ongoing
36

1.1.7
1.1.8
1.1.9
1.1.10
1.1.11
Action Responsibility Timeline
Appoint a staff member or volunteer to
establish and maintain a Seniors Page
on the City of Stirling website. Ensure
that it is updated frequently.
On the Seniors Page, include links to the
Community Information database, Stirling
Volunteer Service and organisations that offer
leisure time opportunities for older people.
Ensure that information of particular
relevance to seniors is published in
the Community newspapers and if
necessary, reinforced from time to time.
Publicise the work of City of Stirling
volunteers, especially during National
Volunteer Week.
Regularly publish a City of Stirling
handbook or information directory for
distribution to all residents.
Community Services
Community Services
All business units
Community Services
Marketing
Marketing
2007/8
2007/8
As required
As
appropriate
Every two
years
37

Strategy 2 – Ensure that all older people have the opportunity to be included in
community activities.
In previous generations there was an expectation that older citizens would prefer to spend much of
their leisure time with others who were similar in age and background. Pensioners’ Clubs, Autumn
Clubs etc. thrived, as did clubs for specific ethnic groups. While this is still often the case, increasingly
the focus of older people’s interest is the activity itself rather than the social group. Older people do
not see themselves as a separate group but simply as members of the whole community and are
happy to join with others of different age groups and ethnic origins to pursue an interest.
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.2.4
1.2.5
1.2.6
1.2.7
Action Responsibility Timeline
Ensure that older citizens are represented
in photographs and stories about the
City of Stirling.
Explore options for involving older CALD
people in mainstream activities.
Diversity of Stirling’s population to be
celebrated through multicultural and
intergenerational events & activities.
Where appropriate, advertise events
and activities in community languages
other than English.
No specific age cut-off for seniors’
activities, though where popular,
preference may be given to over-55s.
Community Centres and Community
Recreation Centres will be available for the
use of people of all ages, although some
may be developed to cater particularly for
the needs and interests of older people.
Investigate the viability of developing
community gardens or other sustainable
projects where all interested members
of the community can work together for
the benefit of the whole community.
Marketing
Community Services
Recreation & Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Sustainability Working
Group Public Open Space
Working Group
As
appropriate
From
2007/8
In
accordance
with the
City’s events
schedule
As
appropriate
2008/9
Ongoing
Ongoing
38

1.2.8
1.2.9
1.2.10
Action Responsibility Timeline
Through LINCS Community Information
Database and direct contact, liaise
with local churches, retirees clubs,
Seniors Recreation Council and other
organisations that facilitate activities for
older people in order that people can
be linked with appropriate groups and
activities.
Make every effort to ensure that minority
groups such as older men, CALD seniors,
ATSI seniors and seniors with disabilities
have equitable access to City of Stirling
facilities and programmes.
Monitor the need to adapt the multicultural
day centre programme to emergent
populations of non-English speaking
seniors.
Library and Information
Services Community
Services
All business units
Community Services
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
39

Strategy 3 – Ensure that all older citizens have the opportunity to provide
feedback to the City of Stirling on matters that will affect them.
The City of Stirling makes every effort to consult with its citizens on matters that will affect them.
Depending on the issue, this may be through public meetings, surveys, both printed and online,
direct contact with affected parties or calls for submissions. In addition staff are always pleased to
receive comments and suggestions about any of the council’s programmes. Some local government
authorities establish mechanisms explicitly for consulting with seniors, such as Seniors Advisory
Councils. However, in keeping with the principles of universal access, the City of Stirling prefers to
ensure that all consultation is accessible to older people.
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5
Action Responsibility Timeline
Make every effort to ensure that all
residents who will be affected by an issue
or development have the opportunity to
comment on the proposals.
Ensure that venues for public meetings are
fully accessible.
Ensure that printed and online material is
fully accessible.
Establish a database of older people who
may be consulted by email or mail on
relevant issues.
On request, make available hard copies
of all surveys and feedback forms.
All business units
All business units
Marketing
Community Services
All business units
Ongoing
As
required
Ongoing
From
2006/07
As
required
40

Strategy 4 – Assist and encourage older people to be involved in community
activities.
Many people seeking new leisure activities at this stage of their life are doing so because they have
undergone a major life transition, e.g. retirement from a job where they were valued and respected,
the loss of a partner, significant family members moving away, a change in financial status or a
deterioration in health. Because it is no longer possible or practical to maintain their previous activities
and social contacts, they need to make new connections. To try something new at any stage of life
requires considerable courage. Those who are successful are rewarded with a network of friendship
and support. Those who are unable or unwilling to take the risks involved may be in danger of social
isolation. Research has shown that social isolation is a major contributory factor to depression and
physical illness. Thus it is important that older people are helped and supported in establishing new
connections within their community.
Action Responsibility Timeline
1.4.2 Encourage groups to develop a practice
of welcoming and introducing new and
prospective members.
1.4.3 Make every effort to ensure that buildings
and spaces used for seniors’ activities
are inviting and comfortable.
1.4.4 Develop areas where seniors can relax in
comfortable surroundings. Make available
board games and jigsaw puzzles.
1.4.5 Encourage shopping centres to establish
areas where seniors can relax in
comfortable surroundings.
1.4.6 Make food and drink available at
reasonable prices at Seniors Centres.
1.4.7 Give seniors the opportunity to try new
activities through a programme of outings,
activities, discussions and social events.
1.4.8 Expand the City of Stirling Volunteer Service
to include the recruitment and training of
volunteers to work in a variety of fields.
1.4.9 Support existing and new community groups
using City of Stirling premises through
reasonably priced and reliable rental of
rooms, publicity in City of Stirling publications
and assistance with management issues
through the Clubs Forever programme.
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
All business units in
conjunction with City
Building Operations
Community Services
Library and Information
Services
Community Services
Community Services
Health and Compliance
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Library and Information
Services
From
2007/8
As
required
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2008/9
From
2008/9
Ongoing
Ongoing
41

Action Responsibility Timeline
1.4.10 Introduce programmes that will occupy
seniors’ centres and community centres
from early morning until the evening,
including weekend activities.
1.4.11 Consider developing a “Friends of
Centres” model to encourage seniors to
become informal social custodians of
particular venues.
1.4.12 Consider employing one or more qualified
Community Development Officer(s) to
develop well-supported programmes and
activities for seniors based at Community
Centres.
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
From
2007/8
2008/9
Community Services 2008/9
42

Strategic Area 2 – Health and Wellbeing
The City of Stirling will contribute to the health and wellbeing of the City of Stirling’s older
residents.
Strategy 1 – Encourage and facilitate active fitness programmes
Most people are well aware of the benefits of keeping fit and would like to do so. However they find
it much easier if suitable programmes are available at venues that are easily accessible to them.
For those who need some level of support, the Home and Community Care WATCH (Wellness
Approach to Community Home Care) project supports programmes that help people to maintain or
improve their fitness through keeping active within their own homes and maintaining or extending
their connection with the community.
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
2.1.5
2.1.6
2.1.7
2.1.8
2.1.9
2.1.10
Action Responsibility Timeline
Continue and expand the Follow My Lead
walking programme.
Consider the specific needs of seniors
should an aquatic centre be developed
in the western part of the City.
Continue the over 50s strength training
programme Living Longer Living Stronger
at TTAC and introduce it to other centres.
Continue to provide venues for Community
Physiotherapy classes at Seniors’ and
Community Centres.
Encourage groups offering fitness
programmes suitable for older people to
use City of Stirling centres.
Ensure that recreation programmes
offered at Seniors’ Centres include a high
proportion of active recreation.
Introduce older people to different types
of physical activity through a senior
activities programme.
Promote programmes suitable for older
people offered at recreation and aquatic
centres.
Support mall-walking programmes
offered at local shopping centres through
publicity and referrals.
Identify programmes suitable for funding
applications under the HACC WATCH
(Wellness Approach to Community
Homecare) guidelines.
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Ongoing
As
required
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2007/8
Community Services 2008/9
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Community Services
From
2007/8
Ongoing
From
2007/8
43

Strategy 2 – Develop partnerships and procedures to minimise injury
and disease.
While injury prevention and health promotion are primarily state government responsibilities, there
are measures that can be taken at the local government level to support and focus the work of other
agencies for the benefit of the people of Stirling. Maintenance of physical and mental health is
arguably the most important factor in successful ageing and delaying the need for support services
for older citizens.
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
2.2.5
2.2.6
Action Responsibility Timeline
Continue to make available pneumonia and
other appropriate vaccinations for seniors at
infant health clinics.
Promote falls prevention through the Stay
on Your Feet programme.
Assess the viability of selling nutritious
meals and snacks at reasonable cost at
Seniors’ and Community centres.
In partnership with RACWA or other
agencies, offer workshops on road safety,
both as a driver and as a pedestrian.
Ensure that the special needs of older
pedestrians and scooter users are
taken into account when developing or
redeveloping areas.
Include talks and discussions on healthrelated
topics in programmes offered at
community centres.
Health and Compliance
Community Services
Asset Management
Community Services
Health and Compliance
Engineering Design
Community Services
Approvals
Engineering Design
Policy and Strategic
Development
Community Services
Ongoing
From
2007/8
From
2007/8
From
2007/8
Ongoing
From
2007/8
44

Strategic Area 3 – Employment and Learning
The City of Stirling will facilitate continuing paid employment, volunteer employment and learning
opportunities for older residents.
Strategy 1 – Assist and encourage older people to undertake paid and voluntary
employment.
Sixty five was set as the retirement pension age back in 1908. Since then average life expectancy
has increased by more than a decade and most people in their sixties and early seventies are
fit and healthy. There is no longer a compulsory retirement age and the Australian government
is encouraging people to continue working in paid employment beyond the age of 65 because
the ratio of younger people in the workforce will continue to decline during the first half of the
21st century. Nevertheless many of the baby boomer generation have anticipated retirement at
age 55 or soon after. Currently less than 50 per cent of those aged 55 to 64 are in the workforce.
Consequently there is an increasingly large pool of fit, active older people who are physically and
mentally able to contribute time and skills to the community, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity.
We need to provide appropriate incentives to encourage them to do so.
Action Responsibility Timeline
3.1.1 Develop flexible employment policies,
including transition to retirement options
such as job-sharing and part-time
employment.
3.1.2 Provide appropriate training or retraining
to mature-aged employees.
3.1.3 Ensure that there is no discrimination
against older job applicants.
3.1.4 Continue to make available counselling
and advice on superannuation and other
aspects of retirement.
3.1.5 Expand the Stirling Volunteer Service to
include recruiting and training volunteers to
work in other fields as well as in aged care.
3.1.6 Continue to ensure that the City meets
expenses incurred by City of Stirling
volunteers as a result of their voluntary work.
3.1.7 Provide information about the Stirling
Volunteer Service and other local
volunteering opportunities on the City of
Stirling website.
3.1.8 Publicise the work of volunteers through
local newspapers and other media.
3.1.9 Continue to express the City’s
appreciation of its volunteers through
awards, receptions or other means.
45
Business units
In conjunction with
Human Resources
Human Resources
Human Resources
Human Resources
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Marketing
Community Services
Marketing
Community Services
Other business units
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2006/07
Ongoing
From
2007/8
Ongoing
As
appropriate

Strategy 2 – Enable older citizens to keep up to date with current and
emerging technology.
Today’s seniors grew up before the electronic age. Many, especially those whose work has required
it, have learnt to use electronic tools such as computers and some have become extremely proficient
in their use. Others have not had the opportunity to learn. However, as technology is changing
rapidly there is a need for ongoing training for everyone who wishes it. The internet is now a vital
source of information and communication, which most people would like to be able to access. In
addition other basic tools are becoming more complex. Telephones and cameras are no longer
simple and new technology is continually being developed which has the potential to make life
easier for older people – if only they knew what it is and how to use it!
Action Responsibility Timeline
3.2.1 Continue to provide free Internet access
at all City of Stirling libraries.
3.2.2 Assess the viability of providing free Internet
access at Seniors’ or Community Centres.
3.2.3 Introduce a programme of basic computer
training for seniors.
3.2.4 Continue to provide volunteer in-home
computer training for eligible residents.
3.2.5 Encourage the private sector to offer
demonstrations of new or recent technology
to groups of seniors, both in City of Stirling
centres and in shopping centres.
3.2.6 Maintain a library of audio-visual
equipment, including a data projector,
which, subject to availability, may be
borrowed or hired by community groups
using City of Stirling venues.
3.2.7 Provide adequate training in the use
of venue security systems and audiovisual
equipment available from the City
of Stirling.
3.2.8 Provide information about the availability of
reasonably priced computers and internet
access for seniors through TADWA, Green
PC and other organisations.
Library and Information
Services
Ongoing
Community Services 2008/9
Library and Information
Services
Community Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Information and
Communications Technology
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Library and Information
Services
Community Services
2006/07
Ongoing
From
2007/8
Ongoing
Ongoing
As
required
46

Strategy 3 – Facilitate activities and events that enable older citizens to pursue
a variety of interests and interact with others in the community.
Life is not all work. Retirement or semi-retirement gives people the time to follow up new interests
and interact with other people. By providing or facilitating opportunities for such activities, the City
of Stirling can help its residents keep their minds active and keep in touch with the community. Such
activities and events need to be accessible in terms of location, facilities, time and cost.
Action Responsibility Timeline
3.3.1 Facilitate a variety of courses and learning
opportunities for seniors in community
centres, libraries and other local venues.
3.3.2 Organise discussion groups on topics of
interest at libraries and community centres.
3.3.3 Support the introduction of discussion
groups at commercial venues. E.g. a
philosophy café.
3.3.4 Set up one or more workshops with
appropriate equipment and instruction
for manual arts.
3.3.5 Develop a programme of education sessions
for those taking on new challenges following
the loss of a partner or for any other reason.
3.3.6 Develop partnerships with TAFE,
universities and other organisations to
run courses and/or conduct research on
issues affecting older people.
3.3.7 Support local community fairs and other
events involving local communities.
3.3.8 Present events and entertainment
attractive to seniors during the daytime.
3.3.9 Celebrate Seniors Week with a community
activity and/or hold a Stirling Seniors Day
at a different time of the year.
3.3.10 Conduct a study into the present and future
availability of and need for venues for cultural
events such as theatre and concerts.
3.3.11 Support moves by entertainment venues
(e.g. cinemas, theatres) to provide special
events for seniors.
3.3.12 When advertising events and activities,
include information on the accessibility
of the venue.
47
Community Services
Library and Information
Services
Community Services Library
and Information Services
Community Services
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Community Services 2008/9
Community Services
Business units in conjunction
with Human Resources
Recreation and Cultural
Services Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services Recreation
and Cultural Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Service Community Services
Library & Information Services
From
2007/8
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2007/8
2008/9
Ongoing
As
required

Strategic Area 4 – Protection and Security
The City of Stirling will strive to enhance the safety and security of its older residents.
Strategy 1 – In partnership with Home and Community Care and other relevant
agencies, provide support and assistance to those who are frail or have a
disability, and their carers.
Through the Home and Community Care programme, the City of Stirling has a proud history of
providing support and assistance to frail aged residents. It is the City’s intention to continue and
enhance these services, as well as working with other agencies to support those with special
needs and ensure that assistance is available to all when needed.
Action Responsibility Timeline
4.1.1 Continue to provide Home and Community
Care services to frail aged and disabled
residents.
4.1.2 Maintain the capacity of Home Services
Coordinators to visit clients at home and
carry out a holistic assessment and referral.
4.1.3 Continue to provide a nutritious Meals
on Wheels service at minimal cost to
consumers.
4.1.4 Continue to provide essential transport to
residents who are eligible for the Home
and Community Care programme.
4.1.5 Endeavour to increase the number of
volunteers wanting to work with frail aged
and disabled residents in order to keep
pace with the ageing population.
4.1.6 Work with specialist agencies such as
Carers WA, Alzheimers Association etc.
to improve the availability of support
services in the City of Stirling for those
with chronic illness and their carers.
4.1.7 Work with government and other agencies
to ensure that there is an adequate
coverage of hospital, GP and specialist
services within the City of Stirling.
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2008/9
From
2008/9
48

Strategy 2 – Develop procedures and partnerships to enhance the personal
security of residents.
If people feel that they live in a safe environment they are much more likely to go out, both for
exercise and to participate in community activities. By doing so they build a social network and
maintain their fitness, which reduces the possibility of their becoming a victim of crime.
Action Responsibility Timeline
4.2.1 Publicise the direct telephone number
for Community Safety – 1300 365 356
– and its appropriate use.
4.2.2 Community Safety officers to provide
presentations to groups and distribute
the Community Safety Toolbox widely
among seniors.
4.2.3 Support and publicise Neighbourhood
Watch groups and encourage people to
join.
4.2.4 Develop a Memorandum of
Understanding with the WA Police to
ensure an adequate police response
time within the City of Stirling
4.2.5 In cooperation with Western Power, make
every effort to ensure that streets are
well lit and street light faults are repaired
promptly.
4.2.6 Install closed circuit TV cameras in
strategic public places.
4.2.7 Maintain the successful graffiti reporting
and removal programme.
4.2.8 Continue to provide a wide range of dog
exercise areas throughout the City.
Community Safety
Community Safety
Community Safety
Community Safety
Engineering Design
Engineering Operations
Community Safety
Community Safety
City Building Operations
Parks and Reserves
Community Safety
From
2007/8
Ongoing
From
2007/8
From
2006/7
Ongoing
As
required
Ongoing
Ongoing
49

Strategy 3 – Give consideration to the financial circumstances of older citizens
when developing policies.
The older baby boomers and the preceding generations have lived through times of austerity.
Many have had little opportunity to save for retirement as most of their working life was before the
era of superannuation. Women were not expected to work outside the home or to have their own
money. Many older people have learnt to be careful with their own money, but still find it difficult,
in an era of “user pays” to meet the many demands on their income. Many are homeowners and
ratepayers who want to see their rates used wisely and City of Stirling assets fully utilised.
Action Responsibility Timeline
4.3.1 Maintain rates concessions for seniors
and pensioners.
4.3.2 Continue current dog registration
concessions for seniors and pensioners.
4.3.3 Where fees are charged for services to
seniors, ensure that they are kept to the
minimal level.
4.3.4 Organise budgeting workshops for age
pensioners and others on low incomes.
4.3.5 Encourage a variety of organisations to
use existing City of Stirling facilities.
4.3.6 Where appropriate, work in partnership with
other organisations to provide programmes
and services within the City of Stirling
4.3.8 Lobby the Western Australian government
for the introduction of free public transport
to those 65 years and older.
Finance
Community Safety
All business units
Ongoing
Ongoing
As
appropriate
Community Services From 2007/8
Community Services
Libraries
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Community Services
Libraries
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Sustainability Working
Group Travelsmart
Ongoing
As
appropriate
From 2007/8
50

Strategic Area 5 – Planning and the Built Environment.
The City of Stirling will ensure that changes and future developments in planning and the built
environment take into consideration the special needs of older citizens.
Strategy 1 – Develop strategies that enable people to remain in their familiar
neighbourhood as they age and their accommodation needs change.
Many older citizens in the City of Stirling have said that they would either like to remain in their current
home into old age or would like to move to a smaller, more manageable home within the same area. In
this way they can maintain their community networks which helps them to keep fit and minimises social
isolation.
Action Responsibility Timeline
5.1.1 Through the Local Housing Strategy and
other planning initiatives, encourage a mix
of housing options in any given area so that
it is easier for seniors to live in self-contained
accommodation close to their families.
5.1.2 Support the development of universal
design or age-friendly homes that are
suitable or adaptable for most people
in the community, including those with
mobility difficulties or disabilities.
5.1.3 Encourage the development of a diversity
of housing choice around commercial
and activity centres
5.1.4 Provide advice on how to modify existing
houses so that older people who wish to
do so can remain in their own homes.
5.1.5 Through the Home and Community Care
programme, continue to provide services
that assist frail aged people to remain in
their own home.
5.1.6 Through the Local Area Planning initiative,
determine where the development of
purpose-built retirement accommodation
and aged care facilities should be
encouraged.
Policy and Strategic
Development
Policy and Strategic
Development
Policy and Strategic
Development
Approvals
Policy and Strategic
Development
Community Services
Policy and Strategic
Development
From
2006/7
From
2006/7
Ongoing
From
2007/8
Ongoing
From
2006/7
51

Strategy 2 – Facilitate the provision of safe transport options to enable people
to access community activities for as long as possible.
Availability and accessibility of transport options becomes increasingly essential for older people
as they become less willing or less able to drive due to health or financial constraints or for other
reasons. Without suitable transport they cannot maintain their community involvement and are at
greater risk of social isolation. Appropriate infrastructure assists people to continue driving safely;
adequate alternative transport enables them to stop driving when it is no longer safe for them to
do so.
Action Responsibility Timeline
5.2.1 Finalise and implement the Integrated
Transport Strategy, which will improve
access to transport services within the
City of Stirling.
5.2.2 Provide information and support for seniors
to make better use of public transport.
5.2.3 Develop opportunities for improving the
accessibility and connectivity of Stirling
and Glendalough train stations
5.2.4 Continue the programme of bus shelter
installation in response to need.
5.2.5 Through community centres, introduce
refresher courses to enable older people to
keep up to date with the road traffic code.
5.2.6 Work with National Disability Service
(formerly ACROD) and other bodies to
ensure adequate provision and monitoring
of designated parking bays for people
with mobility difficulties.
5.2.7 Maintain the Stirling Volunteer Transport
service, which provides medical, social
and shopping transport to people
assessed as eligible under the Home
and Community Care programme.
Policy and Strategic
Development
Travelsmart
Policy and Strategic
Development
Engineering Design
Community Services
Community Safety
Approvals
Community Safety
Community Services
From
2007/8
From
2007/8
From
2007/8
Ongoing
From
2007/8
Ongoing
Ongoing
52

Strategy 3 – Encourage older citizens to be involved in the community by
providing a safe, attractive and functional environment.
Research has shown that the most popular venue for physical exercise is the streets and the
footpath, and that people are far more likely to walk or cycle if there is a variety of destinations,
such as parks, shops or walking and cycle tracks, within 20 minutes from their home. The amount of
physical activity is proportionate to the attractiveness and security of the area. Encouraging people
to walk or cycle is important for the environment, for their own physical and mental health, and to
keep them connected with their local community and thus able to share their time and their skills.
Action Responsibility Timeline
5.3.1 Ensure that the design of roads and
intersections takes into account the
mobility, visual and hearing capacity of
older community members.
5.3.2 Through the Local Commercial Strategy and
the Local Centres Improvement Programme,
promote and facilitate safe, attractive and
accessible commercial centres.
5.3.3 Consider the probable increased use of
electric scooters when designing future
council facilities.
5.3.4 Liaise with Main Roads WA where
increased needs for pedestrian crossing
facilities are identified.
5.3.5 Through the Public Open Space Strategy,
improve shade and seating in parks
where appropriate.
5.3.6 Provide adequate shade and seating in
streets frequented by senior pedestrians.
5.3.7 Continue to improve the City’s network of
cycle paths and dual use paths, including
links to parks and commercial centres.
5.3.8 Construct separate paths for cyclists and
pedestrians in heavy traffic areas.
Engineering Design
Policy and Strategic
Development
Engineering Design
Engineering Design
Public Open Space
Working Group
Engineering Design
Parks and Reserves
Engineering Design
Engineering Design
As
appropriate
Ongoing
From
2006/7
Ongoing
Ongoing
As
required
Ongoing
As
required
53

Action Responsibility Timeline
5.3.9 Conduct a media campaign advising
people how to report hazards and/or
defects on footpaths and cycle paths.
5.3.10 Develop a protocol to ensure that hazard
reports are attended to promptly.
5.3.11 Increase the frequency of maintenance
inspections of footpaths and cycle paths
in heavy traffic areas.
5.3.12 In conjunction with the State government,
investigate the feasibility of constructing
more access ramps and shade shelters
at beaches.
5.3.13 In partnership with local Friends” groups,
increase efforts to maintain the integrity
of bush areas, keeping out weeds and
improving habitats for birds and other
wildlife.
Engineering Operations
Marketing
2008/9
Engineering Operations 2007/8
Engineering Operations
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Parks and Reserves
Parks and Reserves
From
2008/9
From
2008/9
From
2007/8
54

City of Stirling
25 Cedric Street
Stirling WA 6021
Telephone (08) 9345 8555
Facsimile (08) 9345 8822
www.stirling.wa.gov.au