Kingston Positive Ageing Plan€¦ · in the future. 2. A sustainable environment that enhances the appeal and quality of life in Kingston. 3. A healthy and secure community. 4. A

Kingston Positive Ageing Plan2008 – 2013

Acknowledgements 1

Reference Group Members 1

Mayor’s Foreword 2

Executive Summary 3

1. Introduction 4–5

2. Ageing 6–7

2.1. Successful Ageing 7

2.2. Positive Ageing 7

3. Policy Context 8–9

3.1. The Council Plan 9

3.2. Federal, State and Local Government Policy Directions 9

4. The Rationale for a Positive Ageing Plan in Kingston 10–11

4.1. Kingston Population Trends 11

5. How was the Kingston Positive Ageing Plan Developed? 12–15

5.1. The Reference Group 13

5.2. The Consultation Process 13–14

5.3. Guiding Principles of the Plan 14

5.4. The Structure of the Plan 15

6. The Kingston Positive Ageing Action Plan 16–33

6.1. Community Planning 17–18

6.2. Community Participation and Engagement 19–21

6.3. Transport and Mobility 22–23

6.4. Living in the Community 24–25

6.5. Lifelong Learning and Employment 26–27

6.6. Health and Wellbeing 28–30

6.7. Information, Communication and Service Access 31–33

7. Evaluation 34–35

Glossary of Terms 36

Contents

City of Kingston Positive Ageing Plan 2008 – 2013 1

The City of Kingston would like to acknowledge the contribution of the following members of thereference group who have assisted in the preparationof this Plan, and thank them for their participation.

Reference GroupMembers

Councillor Topsy Petchey Kingston City Council

Arthur Ball Community Representative

Georgia Hills Kingston City Council

Jaki Hart Community Representative

Lisa Gallagher Kingston City Council

Liz Daley Kingston City Council

Lorna Stevenson Chelsea Longbeach Place

Malcolm McCall Kingston City Council

Reg Shelley Community Representative

Nigel Brown Kingston City Council

Raymond Lewis Community Representative

Rob Crispin Kingston City Council

Timmi Sanders Community Representative

Trevor McCullough Kingston City Council

Trish Smyth Kingston City Council

Alan Ward Kingston City Council

Acknowledgements

It is with great pleasure that I present the first KingstonPositive Ageing Plan. Thiswonderful initiative has manydimensions, encouraging thecommunity to work togetherwith Council to ensure thatthe diverse needs of oldermembers of the communityare met.

I would like to thank those from the communitywho have contributed their time, ideas, and opinionsduring the process of developing this Plan. The manygroups and individuals provided valuable inputhelping Council to construct a positive ageing plantailored to the needs of the Kingston community.Special thanks also go to those who participated in the questionnaires and community workshopsthat were conducted in late 2006. Thanks are also extended to the many service providers andcommunity groups that have provided informationand advice, either through working groups or on an individual basis.

I would also like to express Council’s appreciation to the Positive Ageing Reference Group memberswho generously devoted their time to ensure thatthe Plan covered all of its objectives, and alsoprovided valuable input to the Plan’s development.Finally, I would also like to acknowledge help of themany Council staff members who provided expertknowledge along the way.

Council looks forward to working with localcommunities to successfully achieve the manyinitiatives identified in this Plan.

Mayor Cr. Topsy Petchey

City of Kingston Positive Ageing Plan 2008 – 20132

Mayor’s Foreword


The level of interest in population ageing has been increasing in all levels of government, withsignificant investments in ageing-related policiesand practices in recent years. The shift in publicdiscussion reflects the renewed understandingabout maintaining wellbeing through well plannedand targeted provisions, which address every aspectof contemporary life. A challenge for all levels ofgovernment, including the City of Kingston, is toassist the older population to remain active, healthy,connected, and independent for as long as possible.

Kingston City Council envisages that this Plan willassist Council in leading the way towards achievingan environment where the older population will feel valued, respected and acknowledged for thecontributions they make to the community. ThisPlan acknowledges that older people have a wealthof experience and knowledge, which is a tremendousresource for the community. The Plan also recognisesthat older individuals are diverse and dynamic withtheir own needs and preferences.

Through the community consultations undertakenin late 2006 when 4,000 households were contactedthrough a stratified sample questionnaire, thecommunity had an opportunity to communicatetheir opinions and needs. This was supported bythree community engagement workshops withapproximately 350 community members participatingin the consultations. Five-hundred and twentyservice providers and community groups were also contacted through a questionnaire followed by a subsequent informal service provider forum,which together provided input from over 100 localorganisations into the development of this Plan.

As a result of the consultations, seven key themeswere identified, which form the foundation of thisPlan. These themes are designed to be flexibleenough to evolve and respond to the changingneeds of Kingston’s older community.

The seven themes of this Plan are: • Community Planning • Community Engagement and Participation • Transport and Mobility• Living in the Community • Lifelong Learning and Employment • Health and Wellbeing • Information, Communication

and Service Access

In practice the seven themes are connected to a certain degree, and addressing one issue in one theme may provide an outcome for another.Therefore, it is imperative that a whole-of-communityapproach be adopted when implementing the variousprojects and policies under this Plan. In addition, forthe same reason, this Plan also has a strong emphasison community engagement across its processes.

Executive Summary



This five-year Plan outlines the strategic directionfor Kingston City Council to promote the wellbeingof the older community under seven key themes.These themes have been developed throughextensive community and service providerconsultation. The goal of the Plan is to provideopportunities for those over the age of 55 to age positively within the City of Kingston.

This Plan is also based on a whole-of-communityapproach that embraces a range of themes thatunderpin the notion of positive ageing. Indeed, acentral objective of the Plan is to develop and fosterpartnerships throughout its existence. There will bemany opportunities for this to occur, either throughthe introduction of the projects under the Plan orthrough its annual review. Section six outlines thestrategic objectives under each of the seven themes.These targeted strategies are designed to maintainand improve the physical, emotional, social andmental wellbeing of the Kingston older community.

This Plan is also supported by a number of documentsthat underpins its development. These documentsinclude the Positive Ageing Research BackgroundReport, which provides the information gainedfrom the primary research undertaken through the community consultations. A second document,entitled Research for an Ageing Society;Supporting Positive Ageing in the City ofKingston, is an evidence-based literature reviewtailored to the City of Kingston from informationbased on both national and international research.

In addition to the documents directly related to it, the Plan was also influenced by existing Councilplans and strategies. Further inputs included thecontributions from the members of the projectreference group, and the contributions from Councilstaff across various departments, which ensuredthat an integrated planning approach was undertakenwhen developing the Plan. This also ensured thatthe Plan will continue to remain an integratedwhole-of-community initiative throughout its five-year duration.

1. Introduction



2.1. Successful Ageing One definition of successful ageing indicates thatduring the course of later life people slowly withdrawfrom social roles. Under this definition it is assumedthat people retire from work and from their majorresponsibilities to seek solitary and passive activitieswhile at the same time reducing contributions tocommunity life1. This may have held some validitywhen people were not living as long and weremore prone to illness or disability; however, thisdefinition could be viewed as being dated whenviewed against the active and diverse needs of the older population today.

A second theory indicates that successful ageinghas more to do with being active and keeping busythrough pursuits such as volunteering2. This mayhave given rise to the many activities that the olderpopulation enjoy today through senior citizen centresand recreational centres. These activities have providedenormous benefits to some people in the community,but when measured against the needs and interestsof the current diverse older population they mayappear insufficient.

A third theory of successful ageing, the continuitytheory, is more reflective of the needs and lifestylesof the diverse older population today3. It suggeststhat successful ageing has more to do with thosecarrying a lifestyle, habits and relationships forwardinto their later life. This theory suggests that as onegets older there should not be a radical break fromthe past; rather, changes should occur gradually.Successful ageing is not necessarily just about livinglonger, it also recognises that quality of life is asimportant as quantity of life. It emphasises thestrengths and growth potential of ageing individualswhile at the same time supporting those who havenot been able to age well due to social factors overthe course of their life. This view of successful ageingis closely linked to the concept of positive ageing.

2.2. Positive Ageing Positive ageing is a proactive approach that considersthe diversity of ageing and life experiences, andcorrects the perception that ageing is burdensometo the community. Its definition extends beyondhealth and the community service sector.

The concept itself is used to address issues thatconcern both the individual and the community as a whole. It is a broad concept that embraces a number of factors, and is comparable to acommunity development approach.

Some general descriptions include: • Having an understanding about the ageing

process and being older.• Planning and preparing for the future while

participating and contributing to society in the present.

• Individuals, families and communities beginningat an early age to share the responsibility ofachieving healthy, secure and fulfilling lives for themselves and those around them.

• Older members of society enjoying the respectand support of a caring community whose values,attitudes and behaviour they helped to shapeand continue to influence by the contributionsthey make.

• The maintenance of a high quality of life4.

2. Ageing

1 Cumming, E., & Henry, W. E. (1961). Growing old: The process of disengagement. New York: Basic Books, Inc. 2 Lemon, B. W., Bengtson, V. L., & Petersen, J. A. (1972). An exploration of the activity theory of aging: Activity types and life expectation among in-movers to a retirement community.

Journal of Gerontology, 27(4): 511-23. 3 Atchley, R. C. (1972). The social forces in later life: An introduction to social gerontology. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth. 4 Family and Community Development Committee (1997). ‘Positive Ageing and Well-Being’ in Report Upon the Inquiry into Planning for Positive Ageing. Victorian Government Printer.



3.1. The Council Plan The City of Kingston Council Plan 2007 – 2012 isCouncil’s vision for the Kingston community. It setsout the priorities and strategies derived through aninclusive community consultation process.

The Council Plan outlines the five plannedoutcomes, which include: 1. Safe, accessible and appropriate infrastructure

assets that meet community needs now and in the future.

2. A sustainable environment that enhances theappeal and quality of life in Kingston.

3. A healthy and secure community.4. A prosperous community.5. Quality leadership and governance.

The delivery of the Kingston Positive Ageing Planadvances Council’s ability to further deliver its statedoutcomes. For instance, under planned outcomethree – a healthy and secure community – Councilstated that it will adopt and progressively implementa positive ageing plan (City of Kingston, CouncilPlan 2007 – 2012).

3.2. Federal, State and LocalGovernment Policy Directions

In 2001, the Commonwealth Government, throughthe Office of Ageing Australia, produced the NationalStrategy for an Ageing Australia (2001). It is abroad framework that details the goals and objectivesproduced by the Commonwealth Government toensure that governments, industry and the communitymeet the needs of an ageing population. Some ofthemes in this report include: • A retirement income system. • Workforce participation. • Attitude, lifestyle and community support.

In 2001, the Victorian Government introduced theGrowing Victoria Together policy. This policy isthe Victorian Government’s vision for the future ofVictoria, and one of the central policy directions isSupport for older people to live active lives inthe community. It also guides: Making This theAge to Be in Victoria: A Forward Agenda forSenior Victoria.

The Making This the Age to Be in Victoria: A Forward Agenda for Senior Victorians(Department of Human Services, 2003) policyidentifies actions to be undertaken by local

communities in the development of an environmentwhere older members of the community are valued,productive and active. It covers five themes thatsummarise key issues, and it also provides examplesof what has already been achieved.

The five themes are: • The age to be valued • The age to be involved • The age to be productive • The age to be active • The age to be consumer wise.

More recently, the Victorian State Governmentdeveloped a strategy, Positive Ageing – A Strategyfor Current and Future Senior Victorians, whereit allocated 5.1 million dollars over four years to theOffice of Senior Victorians in the Department ofPlanning and Community Development to:

Encourage positive ageing behaviour, informcommunity projects to promote changes inattitudes in workplaces and the media, andenhance community participation and technologyusage by older Victorians. (Department of Planningand Community Development, 2006)

There are five principles that underpin this strategy, including: 1. Confidence that their rights will be upheld, their

autonomy accepted and their dignity respected. 2. Certainty that they are valued and listened to

for their past, current and future contributions.3. Opportunities to fully participate in their communities.4. Access to information, support and services to

maximise their independence and maintain theirhealth and wellbeing.

5. Government services and communities which areresponsive to their particular needs and interestsand which recognise the increasing diversity ofour community.

The program areas covered include positive ageingand older workers, the media and positive ageing,information technology and seniors, elder abuseprevention, and positive ageing in local communities.The last mentioned, the MAV/COTA Victorian LocalGovernment Positive Ageing Project, is managed bythe Municipal Association of Victoria, and the Councilof the Ageing Victoria, which is a four-year projectfunded at a cost of $1.4 million designed to helpbuild the capacity of local government authoritieswhen planning for the ageing population.

3. Policy Context



4.1. Kingston Population Trends Based on 2006 census data, the population ofKingston is estimated to be approximately 135,000and continuing to grow by approximately 1,000 ayear. At present, there are 36,474 people over theage of 55 (16,392 males and 20,084 females),which is 27.1 percent of the Kingston population5.This is above the Melbourne average of 24.5percent. This figure is expected to grow, with thebaby boomer generation increasingly moving intothis age bracket. The following table demonstratesthis trend, which is anticipated to continue basedon population projection data for 2011 and 2016(ID Consulting, 2003).

Table 1. Proportion of people over the age of 55 years in Kingston

In future years, the life expectancy for thoseresiding in the City of Kingston is expected tocontinue to increase for both males and females.Based on currently available data, the life expectancyfor Kingston males is marginally above the VictorianState average at 78.2 years, while the life expectancyfor Kingston females it is 82.5 years, which is belowthe state average.

Kingston’s demographic profile provides verificationof its ageing population trends, which outlines theneed for a policy response to ensure that prioritiesare identified and actions are planned to cater forthese demographic changes. The following pointsoutline further reasons for the development of theKingston Positive Ageing Plan.

Responding to Demands and Expectations:• A proactive, positive ageing approach to policy-

making is occurring at all levels of government.• The expectations of more positive experiences

of ageing have been rising. This is especiallyevident as the baby boomers move into theirretirement years.

• There is a requirement to address the needs ofexisting older residents who may not be enjoyingthe benefits of positive ageing.

• With an ageing population, demands upon manyservices will increase, and services must change inorder to meet different community expectations.

• The implications of an ageing population aremore than just increased aged care services; aneffective response to population ageing requiresan understanding of the diverse needs of thesenior members of the community.

• Given that the local government is the closestgovernment to its constituents, the City ofKingston is in a unique position to recognise,understand and respond to the needs of thegrowing older population.

Community Participation: • Through strategies such as the Kingston

Positive Ageing Plan, community participationwill grow, and opportunities to increase theirparticipation will be highly valued by oldermembers of the community.

• The availability of social and cultural amenities at the community level can often determine thequality of participation in community life for oldermembers of the community. In this sense, KingstonCity Council is in a unique position to help oldermembers of the community lead fulfilling andactive lives through the positive ageing plan.

4. The Rationale for a Positive Ageing Plan in Kingston

5 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) Census of Population and Housing Cat. No. 2068.0, Census Tables.

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

1996 2001 2006 2011 2016



Council endorsed the development of a positiveageing plan in mid 2006. At this point, the keystages of the project were mapped out, based on existing Council research and reports. It wasdecided that the Plan would include a breadth ofthemes to capture the diverse needs and interestsof the Kingston community. It was also noted thatthe Plan would be an integrated whole-of-communityinitiative throughout its five-year duration. The keystages of the project included:• A comprehensive review of key policy trends,

which included a review of national, state andlocal trends. This process also included thecommissioning of Monash Research for anAgeing Society to produce a best practicepositive ageing report tailored to the City of Kingston.

• The development of extensive community profiling.• An extensive community consultation process. • A comprehensive review of the services pertaining

to positive ageing provided by the City of Kingston.• The development of the Kingston Positive

Ageing Plan.

5.1. The Reference Group At the beginning, a reference group was formed;the objective of this group was to provide feedbackon the development and implementation of theproject at key stages. The members of this groupincluded twelve representatives from the communityand various departments within Council. The objectiveof the group was to: • Provide an avenue for improved networking

between individuals, agencies and communitygroups with an interest in positive ageing.

• Assist in advocating and negotiating changes on issues as identified throughout the project,with a focus on coordination and collaborativework practices.

• Add value to Council process.• Represent a cross section of the community to

bring a full range of relevant perspectives to bearon the project’s progress.

5.2. The Consultation Process When developing this Plan, it was critical that Councilconsult widely with the community, service providersand community groups within the municipality.Once all the information had been compiled andanalysed, strategic recommendations were developed.This Plan therefore reflects the views of the widercommunity, and provides a clear direction formeeting the needs of the Kingston older community.

One of the research methods used during theconsultations was a community, service provider/community group and internal questionnaire. Thecommunity questionnaire was randomly distributedto households throughout the Kingston community,stratified by suburb to ensure that there was anaccurate spread of the population in the sample.The questionnaires were mailed to 4,000 addressesthroughout the City of Kingston with 297 returnedat a rate of 7.4%. The service provider/communitygroup questionnaire was distributed to over 500service providers and community groups within themunicipality, with 80 returned at a rate of 16%.Finally, the internal questionnaire was distributed to key Council staff, covering all of the positiveageing themes.

Another consultation method was three communityengagement workshops, which were undertakenacross the municipality. The workshops were held in November 2006, and were held in the KingstonCheltenham Municipal Office, the Clarinda CommunityCentre and the Chelsea Heights Community Centrewith over 40 people attending in total. This methodallowed for an in-depth insight into the needs andaspirations of the older community.

A final stage of the consultation occurred whenCouncil hosted an informal forum to give the servicesector an opportunity to work with Council regardingthe strategic directions of the Plan. Essentially, itwas used to incorporate the opinions and ideas ofthe local service providers and community groupsinto the final stage of the Plan. The forum was heldat Kingston Cheltenham Municipal Office in May2007, with over 20 organisations participating onthe day.

5. How was the Kingston Positive Ageing Plan Developed?


Once the seven key themes were identified, an extensiveinternal consultation process was initiated to identifyand pool all of the projects that Council was alreadyundertaking that were related to the older population.The internal consultations were also designed to verifyand evaluate existing Council services and projects,with the intent to lead to discussions about howCouncil’s services could be extended to address the key issues under this Plan.

5.3. Guiding Principles of the Plan The following principles were used as a guide whendeveloping the Kingston Positive Ageing Plan. Theseprinciples will also guide the initiatives and strategiesthroughout the duration of the Plan.

• Council believes in strengthening relationshipswith community groups and non-governmentorganisations to ensure that the needs andconcerns of the older population in the City of Kingston can be met.

• Planning for the ageing population today ensuresthat Council is effective in responding to Kingston’schanging community profile.

• Council believes that providing leadershipopportunities for the older population will build a stronger sense of community.

• Council believes that accessible transport options enable the older population toparticipate in the community more fully and enjoy greater independence.

• All older people should have access to recreation,leisure and cultural opportunities.

• Council believes in sustainable development and infrastructure that respects and balancecommunity needs and provides an environmentwhere older people feel safe.

• Regardless of age, residents should have accessto learning and employment opportunities.

• All members of the community have opportunitiesto fully participate in the Kingston community.


5.4. The Structure of the PlanOnce all of the material had been obtained from thecommunity consultations, the following key themes,which underpin the Plan, were identified:

Theme 1: Community PlanningTheme 2: Community Engagement

and Participation Theme 3: Transport and MobilityTheme 4: Living in the CommunityTheme 5: Lifelong Learning and EmploymentTheme 6: Health and WellbeingTheme 7: Information, Communication

and Service Access

These themes are based on best practice examples fromnational and international research, the views of thecommunity and key stakeholders, and issues raisedduring the consultations.

Once all of the information had been considered, thestrategic directions under each of the themes wererefined through an internal working group. This workinggroup formulated the completion of the strategicframework based on community need, best practiceand the current initiatives of Council.



The following themes emerged from the consultationsthat were undertaken during the development ofthis Plan. The strategic objectives and actions withinthese themes reflect the needs and opinions ofthose over the age of 55 years who live and workin the City of Kingston. The actions are positionedunder the strategic objectives in each of the seventhemes. This is supported by a description of thekey Council department or unit responsible for theimplementation of the actions, which is highlightedin bold along side the partners.

However, the Plan is an integrated whole-of-community initiative, which is receptive to newpartnerships throughout its five year duration.Processes whereby this can be achieved include its annual review or the introduction of the manyprojects central to it. As such, Council’s role in eachof the projects or strategies may vary. For instance,some of the functions of Council in the Plan mightbe to offer funding grants, or to advocate, facilitate,participate, support, lead, or investigate and research.It is intended that each of these functions bereflected in various forms through the implementationand processes of the many projects and strategiesin the Plan.

A combination of factors contribute to the formationof the actions in this Plan. For instance, some of theactions reflect initiatives that are already underway,which support positive ageing. Some actions aredesigned to ensure that the Plan links into existingCouncil plans. Finally, some of the actions are moredetailed than others, allowing the Plan to be flexibleenough to continue to evolve throughout its duration.In addition, the Plan is subject to an annual reviewand amendment, as well as a budget, which willhave an impact on the delivery of the actions andstrategies central to it.

6.1. Community Planning The theme of Community Planning ensures that thisPlan incorporates the on-going research and policydevelopments pertaining to the changing needs ofthe ageing population in Kingston, as well as securingcommunity participation throughout its processes.

This theme is also designed to ensure that Councilis exposed to and shares forward thinking knowledgewhen addressing the complex needs of an ageingpopulation. For instance, the Plan requires on-goinginput from the various departments across Council;therefore, it is crucial that Council employ a whole-of-council framework to guarantee that the mosteffective benefits are available for the older community.Another direction is to foster a team-based approachto planning that brings government and non-government agencies together to work on similarobjectives to benefit the older community.

Another key direction under this theme is to providean avenue for community members to participateand offer their thoughts and experiences to Council’sdecision-making processes. One benefit of communityinvolvement in such processes is that it allows thecommunity to gain a sense of ownership of thePlan throughout its five-year duration.

6. The Kingston PositiveAgeing Action Plan


6.1.1 Establishappropriate levelsof governance to effectivelyimplement the Plan.

6.1.2 Promote the Planas an integratedwhole ofcommunityinitiativethroughout itsfive-year durationby fosteringestablishedpartnerships and collaborativework practices.

6.1.3 Continue toresearch andseek funding todevelop policiesthat are responsiveto the needs ofspecific ageingpopulationswithin the City of Kingston.

6.1.4 Develop crosssectoralapproaches toaddress socialproblems throughpartnershipsbetween Council,communityagencies and,where appropriate,the corporatesector.

Council

Positive Ageing OfficerCouncillor and StaffExternal OrganisationsCommunity Members

Positive Ageing OfficerHealth and Social Planning

Community Services

Human ResourcesPositive Ageing Officer

Community Services

Community ServicesPositive Ageing Officer

Positive Ageing OfficerHealth and Social Planning

Community BuildingPositive Ageing OfficerOrganisational DevelopmentGovernance

Community Services

Community Services

Community Services

Community Services

Community Services

Community Services

Dependent onbudget andtimelines

Within 4 monthsof Council’sadoption of the Plan

Commencementof the Plan

On-going

2009

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

Employ a full time Positive Ageing Officer to overseethe implementation of the Plan.

Develop a Positive Ageing Advisory Committee. Thekey objective of the committee is to oversee the wholePlan throughout its five year duration.

Adopt the recommended evaluation method, andundertake an annual review of the Plan, which detailsthe evaluation outcomes.

Contribute to information sharing across governmentsand sectors, leading to effective policy development.

Develop an ageing awareness program for internalKingston staff to ensure that ageing issues areconsidered in policy development.

Work towards ensuring that Council employees areaware of and kept up to date about age related issues.

Continue to ensure that the key strategies and actionsoutlined in the Kingston Positive Ageing Plan areconsistent with the Council Plan.

Continue to research the needs of the different agecohorts and population groups, such as people with adisability, over the age of 55 years.

Continue to develop and investigate a range ofcommunity engagement feedback mechanisms tofacilitate community involvement in the developmentof policy and the decision-making process.

Continue to seek funding from other levels ofgovernment for positive ageing initiatives that benefitthe Kingston community.

Continue to build strong networks and partnershipswith key stakeholders and organisations.

Work closely with key stakeholders within the localservice system to identify emerging community needsand research gaps.

Participate in state and federal initiatives that benefitKingston’s ageing population. This includes state fundedprograms such as the current Municipal Association ofVictoria and Council on the Ageing programs.

Continue to build relationships and partnerships with a range of agencies, which include bothCommonwealth and state government departments,and non-government organisations.

Improve links with neighbouring local governmentauthorities to improve the services and programs thataddress the needs of the older population.

6 This section outlines the key Council department responsible for the implementation of the action. However, the Plan is an evolving document, and a central objective of the Planthroughout its duration is to encourage other sectors of the community to partner and, at times, take on leading roles.

6.1. Community Planning Goal: To further develop an environment that explores and shares knowledge to improve the

wellbeing of Kingston’s older population.

Strategic Objectives Action Responsibility Timelineand Partners6


6.2. Community Participation and Engagement

The theme of Community Participation andEngagement is designed to work toward a moreconnected Kingston older community. It seeks toensure that the older population are able to activelyparticipate in community life, and that their needsand concerns are identified. Inclusion in communitylife is not just about living in a particular geographicalarea where people feel a sense of attachment. It isalso about ensuring that older people are physicallyconnected to social networks or interest groups tointeract, contribute and influence.

During the consultations, a number of older peopleexpressed concerns about the risk of social isolation.Some older people felt isolated from their communityas a result of limited contact with family and friendsor family and friends moving to other areas. Inaddition, it was indicated that when older peopleleave full time employment they also lose socialnetworks. Further barriers that limited older people’sparticipation included lack of access to transport,health issues, and the problem of having thefinancial capacity to participate in community life.

Throughout the consultations, people alsoacknowledged the need for more opportunities to make personal connections, which could beachieved through social activities or programs tohelp the socially isolated. Areas of interest includedincreased volunteering, with more volunteers froma wider range of backgrounds, and active participationfor the older population.


6.2.1 Participate in initiatives to enhancecommunityconnectednessfor the olderpopulation.

6.2.2 Support olderpeople at risk of social isolationto link to activitiesand supportnetworks ofinterest to them.

6.2.3 Encourage andstrengthen localvolunteering andleadership incommunityactivities.

Community ServicesLeisure and Culture

Social SupportPositive Ageing OfficerArts and Culture

Social SupportCommunity Building

Community BuildingLeisure and CultureKingston University of the Third Age

Southern HealthKingston BaysidePrimary CarePartnership

Youth ServicesPositive Ageing OfficerArts and Culture

Community BuildingCommunity Services

Community BuildingHealth and Social Planning

Positive Ageing OfficerSocial Support

Community BuildingHealth and Social Planning


Positive Ageing OfficerAccess and EquitySocial SupportEthnic Senior Citizens Groups

Communications andPromotions Department

Social SupportEnvironmentDepartment

Libraries and Education Services

Communications andPromotions Department

Leisure PlanningPositive Ageing Officer

On-going

On-going

2008

On-going

2008

2009

2008

2009

On-going

On-going

2008

Support on-going social programs that are responsiveto the needs of the older population in targeted areaswithin the City of Kingston.

Positive ageing is to form part of the Senior’s Week Festival to promote positive ageing within the community.

Expand regular community group lunches to foster an‘eating with friends’ culture.

Work collaboratively with local service providers toinvestigate and address issues of social isolationfocusing on preventative and responsive methods.

Look at options to expand intergenerationalopportunities through local schools, churches andaccommodation houses.

Create new opportunities for older people frommarginalised backgrounds to be more involved incommunity events and activities.

Develop community development initiatives targetingresidents in low income housing – such as publichousing, caravan parks and supported accommodationfacilities, to ensure that they have access to a range offlexible social, cultural and recreational opportunities.

Implement responsive leadership programs targetingresidents in low income housing, to encourageleadership potential and their participation in civic life.

Liaise with local multicultural organisations to worktowards identifying and meeting the needs of the olderpopulation from culturally and linguistically diversebackgrounds within the community.

Continue to advertise for local volunteers and to acceptvolunteer registrations online.

Further develop the capacity of Council to better utiliselocal volunteers. This could be achieved through anexpanded central website volunteer system at the City of Kingston to identify more volunteer optionsavailable within the broader community and linkpeople to these options.


6.2. Community Participation and EngagementGoal: To foster an environment that promotes a vibrant and connected community through

participation and engagement.




6.2.4 Promote andcelebrate thecontributionsthat older peoplemake to thecommunity.

6.2.5 Provideopportunities to access facilitieswhere olderpeople can come together to encourage a sense ofcommunity.


Libraries and Education



Community Services

Access and Equity

Positive Ageing OfficerCommunity BuildingSocial Support

Positive Ageing OfficerKingston University of the Third Age

Moorleigh University of the Third Age

Community CentresNeighbourhoodHouses

Access and EquityPositive Ageing OfficerArts and Culture Communications andPromotions Department

Positive Ageing OfficerSenior CitizensCommunity Groups

Kingston University of the Third Age

Leisure Planning

Libraries and EducationCommunications andPromotions Department

Social SupportLeisure and Culture Health and Social Planning

Leisure Planning

2008

On-going

2008

On-going

On-going

2010

2010

2009

2009

2008

Explore the possibility of developing a central volunteermanual, policy and volunteer developmentopportunities that incorporates the varied volunteerbases within Kingston.

Continue to recognise Council’s volunteers for thecontributions that they make to the community.

Maintain and update Council’s volunteer booklet.

Promote the contributions made by culturally andlinguistically diverse communities who are stronglyinvolved in local leadership activities.

Encourage volunteering from all sections of thecommunity, especially men.

Develop an activity-based calendar or register tappinginto people's skills, knowledge and education.

Create and support opportunities for older people from all cultures to share their stories and experiencesand celebrate the achievements that they make to the community.

Identify leadership and mentoring opportunities for theolder population.

Promote the use of Council-owned venues such as community centres, neighbourhood houses, libraries and other venues for non-formal, non-threateningmeeting places for the older community to come together.

Review the use and function of meeting venues forsenior citizens to consider program models for thechanging population.




6.3. Transport and MobilityThe theme of Transport and Mobility is designed toidentify and encourage a range of flexible options forthe older community to fully participate in communitylife. This includes personal transport, public transport,and walking and mobility aids. Transport is crucial toensure that the older population have access tocommunity life through active participation in socialactivities, employment or access to essential services.Adequate transport options also allow people toexercise their independence and feel more in controlof their lives.

During the consultations, many older people indicatedthat their ability to be independent and to get outand about was affected by environmental, socialand psychological factors. For instance, communityparticipation was a challenge for many older peoplewho were not driving any more, while for some justgetting to and from the local shopping centre wasa difficult task. Another concern was that someolder people cannot move around freely, andconsequently spend days at home alone.

Many transport solutions are not based onincreased transport services. For instance, improvingcommunication with local community groups, andeducational programs aimed to increase the confidenceof the older population are also effective ways toenable the older community to fully participate inthe community. Preventative measures, such asoutlining local paths and walkways, which helpimprove the health and wellbeing of the community,are also effective.

In order to ensure that the transport needs of theolder community are met, this Plan will undertakeprograms that cover a range of options. For instance,consulting and engaging with older people toensure that their transport needs are taken intoaccount is one approach under this Plan. Furthermeasures include the provision of adequatetransport and mobility information, and targetededucational programs designed to improve theconfidence of older people using the publictransport system.


6.3.1 Represent thetransport andmobility needs ofKingston’s olderpopulation.

6.3.2 Increase theinformationavailable to the communityabout Kingston’stransport options.

6.3.3 Develop specifictransport projectsand educationalprograms thatmeet the needsof Kingston’solder population.

Positive Ageing OfficerTraffic Engineering

Access and EquityTraffic EngineeringPositive Ageing Officer

Community ServicesDepot Services

Access and Equity

Community Services

Positive Ageing OfficerTraffic EngineeringSocial Support

Depot ServicesPositive Ageing OfficerSocial Support



Positive Ageing OfficerDepot Service

Health and Social Planning

Community BuildingPositive Ageing Officer

2008

2009

On-going

On-going

On-going

2009

On-going

2009

2011

2011

2010

Form a traffic and transport advisory group to identifyolder persons' needs. This is to provide an avenue forolder people to be more involved in transport planning,transport implementation and advocacy and identifyingroad safety issues.

Identify barriers to access mobility; for instance, sensory impairments, when attempting to access public transport.

Identify areas that Council can advocate for on behalfof the older community concerning mobility barriers.

Support initiatives in the Access and ParticipationPolicy and Action Plan 2007 – 2010 representing theinterests of the older population.

Advocate for the needs of the older population withregards to a more user-friendly public transport system.

Develop a transport information kit. This kit shouldidentify local transport options, such as communitytransport, and local walking paths, and informationabout crossing roads, accessible parking bays, publictransport timetables, and how to reach key destinations.

Continue to promote existing Council communitytransport services.

Explore and implement ways in which Council couldassist with improving the confidence of older people inusing public transport. This should be achieved througha public transport education program targeted at thosewho have not used public transport in a while or at all.

Look at options for expanding transport options tosocial activities of interest through Council funding or by seeking sponsorship.

Investigate and implement opportunities for morefrequent community bus services being available forshopping and medical appointments. One avenue is tolook at how and when Council owned buses are used.

Trial a new walking companions program or support an existing Program, where interested persons registertheir interest in walking together with others to aparticular destination (shopping centre, church, artgallery etc) on a certain day and time.


6.3. Transport and Mobility Goal: To create an environment that allows for a more connected community through improved

transport and mobility options



6.4. Living in the Community Good neighbourhoods provide easy access to a wide range of shops, services and culturalfacilities where people can interact and feel safe.Neighbourhood facilities such as footpaths, seatsand connected walkways either help or do not helpthe older population to go about their daily activities.Housing is another issue for the older community,with many wishing to remain in the homes thatthey have lived in for many years.

Good neighbourhood design allows people tointeract and feel safe without the risk of becomingisolated from the community within their ownhomes. The City of Kingston already puts considerableeffort into neighbourhood design. One strategicdirection under this theme is to ensure that theolder population are aware of these initiatives,which will benefit not only the older population,but the community at large.

During the consultations, many older people indicatedthat they enjoyed living in the area, and thatindependence was important. The neighbourhoodfacilities the community believed would best supporttheir basic living needs as they got older includedmore information about connecting walking paths,and improved access to local facilities and beaches.

Council acknowledges that the older population aremore likely to be concerned about their safety thanany other age group within the community. It isimportant that older members feel safe and supportedwhether in their homes or in public spaces. Toensure that this is the case, this Plan supports theinitiatives that Council is already undertaking in the area of community safety. It also ensures thatthe safety concerns of the older population arerepresented in future decision-making processes.


6.4.1 Inform Kingston’solder populationof the age-friendlydevelopmentswithin themunicipality.

6.4.2 Participate in thephysical planninginitiatives thatrepresent theinterests ofKingston’s ageingpopulation.

6.4.3 Inform Kingston’solder populationof the full rangeof potentialhousing andsupport optionsavailable to them.

6.4.4 Participate inexisting safetyprograms toensure that thesafety concernsof the olderpopulation arerepresented.

Strategic PlanningPositive Ageing Officer

Positive Ageing OfficerStrategic PlanningHealth and Social Planning

Leisure PlanningAccess and Equity

EnvironmentDepartment

Community ServicesAccess and EquityPositive Ageing OfficerArts and CultureStrategic Planning


Strategic PlanningHealth and Social Planning

Positive Ageing Officer

Community BuildingSenior Citizens’Community Groups


Community BuildingSocial SupportAccess Care Southern


Strategic Planning

Traffic EngineeringPositive Ageing Officer

Community BuildingVic. PoliceNeighbourhoodWatch

On-going

2010

On-going

2009

On-going

On-going

2008

On-going

On-going

On-going

Promote community awareness about age-friendlydevelopments that Kingston is undertaking/hasundertaken. One avenue where this should be achievedis through existing Council publications.

Promote connecting walking paths and lanesthroughout the municipality. This will allow residents topass through their neighbourhood without having totraverse roads, as well as promoting physical activity.

Look at ways to increase the availability and use ofpractical and attractive street furniture within thecommunity. This includes the availability and use ofhandrails at beaches and toilets, for example, as well asbenches, lights, seats in the shade, and resting places.

Explore the option of a social impact assessmentframework that will consider age related issues.

Seek to be involved in relevant local/regional/state andnational built environmental forums that determinedirections and resource allocations in relation to ageing.

Work with both government and non-governmentorganisations to explore community developmentinitiatives that target older persons in low costaccommodation.

Identify barriers to housing options for older personswithin the municipality.

Continue strategic and advocacy efforts concerningaffordable and appropriate housing strategies.

Assist with the implementation of road safety programssuch as ‘Wiser Driver.’

Support the work of local networks that focus on preventing and reducing safety problems within the community.


6.4. Living in the CommunityGoal: To create an environment that reflects the needs of an ageing population.



6.5. Lifelong Learning and Employment

Lifelong Learning and Employment is designed to help the older population upgrade or utilise their skills and knowledge within the community. The skillsand knowledge needed to find employment orremain in the workforce are also issues of concern,as is financial wellbeing.

The notion of lifelong learning acknowledges thefact that older people have many skills and knowledgethat have been acquired through either formal or informal training over the course of their life. It is important to acknowledge this and provideopportunities for the older population to utilisethese skills and knowledge. Some of the suggestionsmade during the consultations included options toexplore the possibilities for more partnerships withlocal organisations such as the University of theThird Age. It was also suggested that an activity-based calendar of events tapping into people'sskills, knowledge and education would be beneficial.

In a period of an ageing population workforceretention is becoming more of a concern foremployers. However, the barriers that older peopleencounter are still apparent despite these changes.The evidence indicates that younger workers arestill the preferred option for recruitment despitemature age workers being skilled and effectiveemployees. One objective under this theme is tosupport initiatives within the municipality thatpromote mature age workforce retention.

Financial wellbeing also plays a central role in thewellbeing of the older population. It is linked to allaspects of an older person’s life. For instance, oneof the findings from the consultations was thatmany older people have not adequately preparedfor their retirement. In addition, increases in priceshave resulted in some having difficulty affordingmany of the basic essentials such as fresh food and health care products. Also, the lack of financialwellbeing has led to social problems because someolder people were more confined to their homes.


6.5.1 Implement and promoteopportunities forlifelong learning.

6.5.2 Promote theavailability oftraining andemploymentopportunities for the olderpopulation.

6.5.3 Utilise the skillsof the olderpopulation in the community.


Moorleigh University of the Third Age


Libraries and EducationAccess and EquityCommunity CentresNeighbourhoodHouses

Libraries and EducationHealth and Social Planning


Libraries and EducationKingston University of the Third Age

EconomicDevelopment

Positive Ageing OfficerSenior Citizens’Community Groups

EconomicDevelopment

Human ResourcesPositive Ageing Officer

OrganisationalDevelopment

Positive Ageing OfficerSenior Citizens’Community Groups

EconomicDevelopment


EconomicDevelopment

City of Glen Eira

On-going

On-going

2008

On-going

2009

On-going

2010

On-going

On-going

In partnership, make secure provision for a range oflifelong learning opportunities for the older communityin partnership with local organisations.

Promote literacy and numeracy programs for that partof the older community that are from culturally andlinguistically diverse backgrounds.

Undertake an audit of programs being offered out ofcommunity centres, neighbourhood houses and libraries.

Make use of Council libraries as venues for older adulteducational courses undertaken in partnership withinterested services providers and community groups,particularly dealing with the introduction of newtechnologies, including computers, mobile phones,cameras etc.

Assist the older population to understand their financialsituation and plan for retirement.

Participate in initiatives that promote the value ofmature age workforce retention and age friendlyworkplace practices.

Support existing programs that work in partnershipwith local service providers, community groups andgovernment departments considering options foraccessing mentoring, training and work experienceopportunities for the older population.

Encourage the older population to share their skillsthrough the local University of the Third Age centres.

Encourage retirement business executives to becomevolunteers under the Mentor Partners Program to assistlocal small business.


6.5. Lifelong Learning and Employment Goal: For community members to have access to employment and educational opportunities

regardless of their age.



6.6. Health and WellbeingThe objective of this theme is to lead and inspirethe older community to have a healthier and moreenjoyable lifestyle. One direction is to play a keyrole in supporting current initiatives such as theKingston Municipal Health Plan and other establishedinitiatives that benefit the older population, byencouraging healthy behaviours such as eatingnutritious foods and being physically active.

Each of the strategic directions listed for health and wellbeing are topics that emerged through theconsultations. It was pointed out that many olderpeople were prone to mental health issues throughsituations that lead to social isolation. It was alsosaid that some older people do not have access tophysical activity programs to enhance their generalstrength or cardiovascular health. All of the themesin this Plan can be linked to each other; for instance,mental health and social interaction. One objectiveof this Plan is to explore the possibilities that allowfor initiatives that are jointly centred on physicalactivities and social interaction.

To a large extent, older people are affected by oneor more chronic diseases, such as diabetes, strokeor heart disease. To address these issues, there aremany effective health programs already taking place in the Kingston community, through Council,the service sector or community groups. Onedirection of this Plan is to build on these programs,and improve the health information provision to the older community. Another key feature is todevelop stronger partnerships with both the servicesector and community groups to ensure that thehealth needs of the older population are being met consistently.


6.6.1 Participate in existingprograms toensure that thehealth concernsof the olderpopulation arerepresented.

6.6.2 Continue toconduct healthand leisureresearch toascertain thechanging needsof the olderpopulation.

6.6.3 Increase theopportunity for older peopleto participate in activities to promotewellbeing.


Leisure Planning


Positive Ageing OfficerKingston BaysidePrimary CarePartnership


Leisure Planning


Leisure PlanningPositive Ageing OfficerSouthern HealthHealth and Social Planning

Central BaysideCommunity HealthServices


Leisure and Recreation Centres

Positive Ageing OfficerSenior CitizensCommunity Groups

Kingston BaysidePrimary CarePartnership


Leisure PlanningPositive Ageing OfficerLeisure and Recreation Centres


Positive Ageing OfficerKingston BaysidePrimary CarePartnership

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

On-going

2009

On-going

On-going

On-going

Support the implementation of actions in the KingstonMunicipal Health Plan 2006 – 2009 pertaining toageing populations.

Ensure that older persons’ interests and requirementsare represented with regard to the Open SpaceEvaluation Strategy 2005.

Continue to play an active role in the Kingston BaysidePrimary Care Partnership programs concerning: foodand nutrition, physical activity, community participationand social connectedness, and other health relatedconcerns involving the older population.

Continue to consult with the community to provideCouncil with more targeted information about thehealth needs and interests of specific age cohortswithin the older population.

Advocate for more funding from state and federalgovernments for recreational programs, activities and facilities.

Promote early involvement in recreational activities for the pre-retirement population to establish ongoinginvolvement in active recreation.

Work with local organisations to promote and developphysical activity programs for the older population,including general fitness, strength building, flexibility,balancing enhancement, and healthy weight activities.

Explore the possibility of developing more physical activity teaming opportunities for the older population tosocialise. This might include activities like: Tai Chi, exerciseto music, line dancing or regular walking activities.

Participate in the mental health initiatives that areprovided within the municipality.


6.6. Health and WellbeingGoal: For the older Kingston population to lead healthy and independent lives at home

in their communities.



6.6.4 Promote positiveageing activitiesthrough increasedparticipation inrecreation, leisureand culturalactivities.



Leisure and Recreation Centres

Kingston Arts CentrePositive Ageing Officer



Senior CitizensCommunity Groups


Leisure and CulturePositive Ageing Officer


2010

On-going

On-going

2008

2008

2009

Explore the possibility of an exercise guide targeting the older population outlining the benefits of active living.

Encourage older people to access existing recreationalopportunities at the local leisure centres, arts centre,and recreation centres.

Promote health planning courses or programs aboutthe importance of healthy ageing.

Explore the option of supporting local sporting andrecreation organisations in including older adults intheir activities. This may include the allocation offunding via Council’s Community Grants Program or a modified fee structure for the use of Council facilitiescould be offered to sporting clubs who provideparticipation opportunities for older adults.

Investigate options for providing older people withmore opportunities to be involved in informalrecreational activities and events.

Explore the possibilities of grandparents days at localsports clubs in partnership with local schools.




6.7. Information, Communicationand Service Access

Accurate, timely, up-to-date and relevantinformation is central to the needs of the olderKingston population. Everybody has a right to a full range of information regarding their entitlements,options and choices, and the support servicesavailable to them. However, it is often those whoare most in need of information who experiencethe greatest problems regarding information access.This problem is usually encountered by the oldercommunity, especially those from culturally andlinguistically diverse backgrounds or people livingwith a disability. Another area covered under thistheme is service access, which is designed to helpthe older population access community supportservices within the municipality.

Information should be provided where and whenthe community want it. It is most effective when it is straightforward, timely and comprehensible.During the consultations it was indicated that,some older residents felt that there was a lack of information about how to contribute to thecommunity, and a lack of information about servicesin the local area. A key direction under this theme is to ensure that a range of mediums are exploredto guarantee that the older community are wellinformed and can access the services needed.

The findings of the consultations indicated thatmany older people actually prefer to remain in theirown homes within their community but may requiresupport to live independently and remain connectedto their community. The services that supportpeople in their home as they get older are critical to the wellbeing of the community.

As the number of older people in the communityincreases, so will the number of home care servicesrequired. Government funding is now more tailoredtoward providing support services that will assistolder people to remain in their own homes. Councilhas long recognised its role in the delivery of careand support services to the older community, whichwill be maintained through a number of actionsunder this Plan.


6.7.1 Provide andfacilitate in the provision of accessibleinformationabout localservices that theolder populationneeds at particularstages of theirlife.



Kingston Customer Service


Libraries and Education Services

Positive Ageing OfficerSouthern HealthCommunications and PromotionsDepartment

Kingston Customer Service


Community ServicesEthnic Senior CitizensSouthern Health

Community Services

Positive Ageing OfficerGeneral Bayside GP Association

Social SupportHealth and Social Planning

Depot ServicesPositive Ageing Officer

2008

2009

2009

On-going

On-going

2010

2009

On-going

Develop an information kit for the community aboutthe initiatives that Council is already undertakingpertaining to an ageing population. This should cover allof the projects currently being undertaken by Council.

Provide reserve display stands at each Kingston customerservice centre and other venues that contain informationspecific to residents aged 55 years and over.

Review opportunities to develop a ‘what’s on’ sectionin Council’s existing publications related to local eventsthat are relevant to the older population.

Investigate the need for publications such as theCommunity Directory to be available at more locationswithin the municipality. This includes considering optionsto deliver it directly to local community groups.

Work towards sharing information between serviceproviders and Council to ensure that the informationabout Council and community services is up-to-date,accurate and timely, meeting the needs of the older population.

Increase the provision of information about entitlementsthat is relevant to older people by providing informationon the range of concessions that are available to them.One consideration is to review the language line provision.

Work with local service providers, such as the Divisionof General Practice to provide a range of informationspecific to the needs of the older population.

Support and promote current home supports such as the home maintenance program so that the olderpopulation can stay in their own homes longer andmaintain their independence.


6.7. Information, Communication and Services Access Goal: For the older population to have access to timely, up-to-date and accurate information that is

targeted to their needs.



6.7.2 Promote positiveimages pertainingto the olderpopulation in the local media.

6.7.3 Advocate for accessibleand affordablecommunity andresidential agedcare services in the City of Kingston.

6.7.4 Continue toresearch andparticipate ininitiatives toensure that theneeds of theolder populationare met.

Positive Ageing OfficerCommunications and PromotionsDepartment

Media andCommunications

Kingston MediaPositive Ageing Officer

Aged and Disability Services

Community ServicesPositive Ageing Officer



Community Services

Community Services

2008

On-going

2008

On-going

On-going

2008

On-going

On-going

Implement a marketing strategy that highlightsdifferent stages of the Plan.

Promote positive images of older people in the local media.

Develop a section on Kingston’s web page detailing the positive ageing initiatives that are being undertakenthroughout the community, which could also behighlighted through other mediums such as theKingston radio hour.

Continue to review and improve local Home andCommunity Care policies and services.

Promote the availability of community care andresidential care services to the residents of Kingston.

Conduct a research project on the needs of the olderpopulation in low cost accommodation.

Continue to examine and identify the un-met needs of the much older members of the aged community.

Continue to actively participate in aged caredevelopment at all levels of government.





The Plan has been developed to meet the needs of the Kingston older community. To determinewhether this is being achieved, a key undertaking is the adoption of an evaluation framework. It is also essential to ensure that key learnings are considered, contributing to informed decision-making to improve future planning, budgeting andthe implementation of activities. The evaluation willconsider both processes and outcomes in order tounderstand the opportunities, achievements, andconstraints of the Plan and modify it accordingly.

Throughout the evaluation process, this will determinewhether the general outputs of the Plan, namely,the implementation of the strategic objectives, havebeen achieved. Once this has been determined,another key consideration of the evaluation is torefine the objectives to ensure that the Plan remainseffective in meeting the changing needs of theKingston community.

It is recommended that an evaluation of each of theindividual projects under the Plan be undertaken,and then reported back in the annual review of thePlan through its corresponding objective. This is tofurther determine the effectiveness of the Planthroughout its five-year duration.

There will be an extended evaluation implementationframework developed once the Plan is endorsed,which will assist with setting priorities andindicators which are in line with the annualbudgeting process.

7.1. Best Value Reporting Another level of monitoring of the Plan is throughCouncil’s Best Value reporting mechanisms. Therewill be periodic report to Council on the actionsfrom the Positive Ageing Plan through Council’sregular reporting mechanisms. There will also be an annual report to the community on the progressof the Plan in Council’s Annual Report.

7. Evaluation


Aged and Disability Services(Kingston City Council)

Access and Equity (Kingston City Council)

Age Friendly

Community Building(Kingston City Council)

Community Planning

Community Services(Kingston City Council)

Council

Economic Development(Kingston City Council)

Environment Department(Kingston City Council)

Health and Social Planning(Kingston City Council)

Kingston Customer Service(Kingston City Council)

Kingston Depot Services(Kingston City Council)

Leisure Planning (Kingston City Council)

Libraries and Education Services(Kingston City Council)

Organisational Development(Kingston City Council)

Social Support (Kingston City Council)

Strategic Planning (Kingston City Council)

Traffic Engineering (Kingston City Council)

This department looks after age related issues, including hostels, home care,meals delivery, and social support.

The aim of this unit is to ensure that accessible services are providedequitably to all in the community.

“Age-friendly” is based on policies, services and structures related to thephysical and social environment, which are designed to support and enablethe older population to live in security, enjoy good health, and continue toparticipate fully in the community.

The Community Building Unit is committed to developing communitydevelopment initiatives within the municipality through the engagement andparticipation of local communities.

The discipline of Community Planning focuses on services, projects,programs and people. It is based on social policy planning and research, andalso enables local communities to actively participate in Council processes.

The Community Services Department includes Children Services, Family andCommunity Development, Hostels (residential care), and Aged and Disability Services.

The administrative local government serving body.

Helps local businesses by running seminars, workshops and network groups, as well as by providing a link to various government departments.

This department covers the following areas: Parks and Urban Design,Environment Planning, Building Maintenance and Depot Services, andCommunity Bus and Home Maintenance.

Aims to address a range of issues that impact on people’s health and social wellbeing.

As well as receiving incoming calls in the call centre, customer service stafftake over-the-counter-payments and represent the frontline at Council'sservice centres.

Looks after general maintenance within the community, as well as theCommunity Bus and Home Maintenance services.

Involves promoting, facilitating and providing a diverse range of leisurefacilities, programs and services to the community.

Kingston Library Services, which includes eight branches throughout the city.

Organisational Development is a department within Council that is responsiblefor areas such as Best value reporting, organisational development policies and strategies, Community and Council Planning, Business Planning, TalentManagement, Risk Management Education, and Service Improvement Projects.

Includes helping residents who are HACC eligible and transport disadvantaged.

Provides strategic advice on major land use projects and ensures thatdevelopment outcomes are responsive to Council's long-term strategic goals.

The Traffic Management Unit provides professional advice and planningcontract supervision on traffic and transport matters, as well as addressingsafety issues and the impact of traffic on the physical environment.

Glossary of Terms

Thank you for reading the City of Kingston’sPositive Ageing Plan 2008-13.

Further readingWe encourage you to visit Council’s website whichcontains information about our services, programs,events, major initiatives, major publications andmore. The address is www.kingston.vic.gov.au

Once online you can register to be notified ofupdates to areas of Council you are interested in.You can also register for Council’s new E-Newsletters.

This Kingston Positive Ageing Plan is available online.

Quick Council ContactsMain switchboard 1300 653 356

Facsimile (03) 9581 4500

TTY (for hearing impaired) (03) 9581 4506

Large PrintFor a large print version of this KingstonPositive Ageing Plan or any other Councilpublication, telephone the CommunicationsDepartment on (03) 9581 4730.

Thank You Language Line

1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham, VIC 3192PO Box 1000, Mentone, VIC 3194

Telephone: 1300 653 356 Fax: 03 9581 4500 Email: [email protected]

Documents

Kingston Positive Ageing Plan€¦ · in the future. 2. A sustainable environment that enhances the appeal and quality of life in Kingston. 3. A healthy and secure community. 4. A