National Dementia Action Plan released by govt

In a bid to make Australian more dementia-inclusive, the federal government has released its National Dementia Action Plan 2024–2034.

The plan was developed in partnership with state and territory governments and informed by people living with dementia, their carers and families, aged care providers and workers, advocates, health professionals, researchers, and peak industry bodies and organisations.

It outlines eight high-level actions for implementation over the next decade, with a focus on increasing dementia awareness, reducing the population’s risk of dementia, and driving better-coordinated dementia services.

Progress against the plan will be tracked and reported annually through an online dashboard developed by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

“Dementia is a national health priority for our government and the National Dementia Action plan reflects this,” said Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care.

“This historic plan is a reminder that while we have made huge advancements in treatment there is more to be done to raise awareness, diagnose and care for individuals and community impacted by dementia.”

The eight actions are:

• Action 1: Promote equity and human rights
• Action 2: Tackle stigma, improve awareness and promote inclusivity
• Action 3: Empower individuals and communities to minimise risk where they can, and delay onset and progression
• Action 4: Improve dementia diagnosis and post‑diagnostic care and support
• Action 5: Improve treatment, coordination and support for people living with dementia
• Action 6: Support carers of people living with dementia
• Action 7: Build capability of the workforce to care for and support people living with dementia
• Action 8: Improve dementia data, maximise the impact of dementia research and promote innovation
   

“The National Dementia Action Plan is not just a policy; it is a promise to Australians living with dementia and their loved ones. It acknowledges that dementia is a societal challenge requiring a collective response,” said Dr Isabelle Meyer, Executive Director of Dementia Training Australia.

“Whether it’s a café worker learning how to assist a distressed customer or a financial adviser safeguarding vulnerable clients, education transforms our ability to support those living with dementia.”

Importantly, the plan also fulfils Australia’s obligations in relation to the World Health Organization’s ‘Global action plan on the public health response to dementia 2017–2025’.

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