Queensland’s annual Seniors Week will become a month-long celebration this year, the Minister for Seniors has announced.
Minister for Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Craig Crawford, said the month-long celebration in October would allow organisations more time to deliver and enjoy events.
“Last year we had to unfortunately cancel our plans to make Seniors Week a month because of the COVID pandemic,” Mr Crawford said.
“Despite this, a total of 305 events were held during Seniors Week in 2020 with an estimated participation of 3,802 people and 131 virtual events with an estimated participation of 20,222 people.
“This year, with grants of up to $1000 available, we’re gearing up for a month of celebration – under the theme of Social Connections — imagine how many events we could have registered for a whole month of seniors celebrations?”
Council on the Ageing Queensland (COTA Queensland) will work closely with the state government to co-ordinate the month and the grants process.
“Seniors Month will connect Queenslanders through a series of local activities that bring seniors together with their community,” said COTA Queensland Chief Executive Mark Tucker-Evans.
“If COVID taught us anything, it’s the importance of connecting with others. That social connection whether digitally, or in person, can lower anxiety, depression and build empathy,” he said.
Celebrations in 2021 will begin on 1 October, the United Nations International Day of Older Persons and end on 31 October, Grandparents Day.
“Seniors Month will reinforce the importance of bringing together different generations and cultures, to celebrate the essential role that older people play in society,” he said.
Mr Crawford said he believes Seniors Month will provide an opportunity for all Queenslanders of all generations to celebrate with their families, friends and communities.
“We’re expecting unprecedented demand for grants this year as communities want to get together, reconnect and celebrate the essential roles that older people play in our communities,” he said.
“I am incredibly proud that the Palaszczuk Government continues to provide funding to celebrate the contribution of our state’s seniors and thrilled that in 2021, we have a whole month to celebrate.”
Applications for grants are now open and will close on May 31.
To find out more about Queensland Seniors Month and to apply for a grant, visit www.qldseniorsmonth.org.au or phone COTA Queensland on 1300 738 348.
To find out more about Queensland Government services and supports for seniors visit https://www.qld.gov.au/seniors or call the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500.
