The 'Age of Change' is here

Almost 2000 aged care industry professionals have descended on Adelaide for the Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) National Conference, whose theme this year is ‘The Age of Change’.

Held from 25–27 October, the event brings together industry leaders, experts and visionaries to embrace a future of transformation, striving to better the lives of older Australians and build a sector to be proud of.

“Aged care in Australia is at a crossroads, which brings hope for a brighter future alongside sweeping reforms. Some reforms will be easy and some will be hard. The sheer scale of this conference shows that the broader sector is committed to learning from each other and delivering the aged care we all want to see for older Australians,” ACCPA CEO Tom Symondson said.

“Keeping abreast of developments including leading ideas for care of older Australians, will be the key to future success in this age of change.”

Key highlights of the conference include an address by Aged Care Minister Anika Wells and a panel discussion on the future sustainability of the sector, featuring members of the Australian Government’s Aged Care Financial Sustainability Taskforce.

“Aged care’s single greatest challenge is sustainability, both right now and into the future. As the population ages, demand for aged care will spiral and we need to be ready. We need to make sure our sector is fit for purpose now but also engineered for tomorrow,” Symondson said.

The event features sessions on a range of topics including governance, leadership, digital solutions, finance, retirement communities, seniors housing, care models, cutting-edge technologies, funding, workforce solutions, critical strategic priorities and the sector’s long-term viability.

Walkley Award-winning journalist Tony Jones is the Master of Ceremonies. The familiar face of the ABC’s Q&A and Lateline, Jones brings more than 20 years of experience, and a reputation as a master facilitator of thought-provoking engagement.

Celebrated actor, radio presenter and philanthropist Samuel Johnson OAM is the Opening Keynote Speaker. Johnson has won AFI and Logie Awards for his roles in ‘The Secret Life of Us’ and ‘Molly’, and is admired for founding the cancer charity ‘Love Your Sister’.

Another highlight will be the appearance of renowned demographer and futurist Bernard Salt, outlining the challenges and opportunities of an ageing population.

“The ACCPA National Conference is a way for leaders from across the nation, many of whom work at the coalface, to help shape the future of aged care. It’s also an opportunity to learn and share innovations,” Symondson said.

“It’s a chance to connect with like-minded industry professionals, interact with suppliers and explore opportunities to create partnerships.”

Image credit: iStockphoto.com/gorodenkoff