COTA ACT works with older Canberrans to shape a more just and equitable community in which older people participate and contribute to their fullest capacity. We believe older people should have access to the support they need to live fulfilling, dignified and happy lives.
How we do it
COTA ACT provides a range of free services for both COTA members and the Canberra community. You can find out more about our services in the programs and events menu.
- Seniors Information Service
COTA staff and volunteers provide advice and referrals to individuals on a wide range of issues
- ACT Seniors Card scheme
We administer the ACT Seniors Card scheme on behalf of the ACT Government, and produce the Seniors Card Discount Directory
- Policy and advocacy
COTA ACT has a Policy Committee, a representative group of older people with an active interest in seniors’ issues and a commitment to ensuring that seniors have a strong voice in the community. The Policy Committee identifies issues and priorities that COTA should focus on and helps determine COTA policies based on member’ input, research and consultation.
- Housing Options and Advisory Service and Aged Care Navigation Service
COTA ACT runs two free services for people to access appropriate and affordable housing and care, and access aged care support. These services provide individual appointments as well as group information sessions.
- Sessions for Seniors
We host one on one sessions for people with a range of community groups and government organisations. You can contact us to book in for an appointment with groups such as the Advance Care Planning Team, Legal Aid, ACT Policing and Better Hearing Australia.
- Information Resources
COTA ACT publishes, and distributes on behalf of other organisations, a vast range of printed material. These include our popular ‘Guide to Getting Around Canberra’ and a monthly e-newsletter full of information and events of interest to older Canberrans.
- Community Education
We run free information sessions and programs a range of issues. We run sessions out of the Hughes Community Centre, but can also come and speak at your group or organisation.
- Strength for Life
Strength for Life is a new exercise program in the ACT, to help people over the age of 50 improve the physical strength and fitness. COTA ACT is training qualified and experienced exercise professionals to deliver the program in 2020.