Staying active
Regular movement supports your physical health, mental health, and can lower the risk of disease or injury.
National Healthy Ageing Day
Bringing communities and organisations together to support healthier, more connected ageing for all Australians
Keep doing what matters
National Healthy Ageing Day is held on 6 May, and this year’s theme, Keep doing what matters, highlights how healthy ageing approaches can help people stay strong, independent, and able to keep doing what’s important to them as they age.
Healthy ageing is about living well, not just living longer. It’s about staying strong, engaged, and connected to the people and passions that are most important.
What is healthy ageing
Healthy ageing is about living well at every stage of life. It’s shaped by the choices you make each day to keep doing what matters most to you.
The national challenge
Today, about 4.2 million people living in Australia – around 16% of the population – are aged 65 or older. This number is set to almost double by 2050. At the same time, more Australians are spending longer in poor health, placing growing pressure on families, communities, and care systems. These trends highlight an urgent need to strengthen prevention and capability building so longer lives come with greater vitality, connection, and independence. Without meaningful investment in healthy ageing, Australia risks adding years without adding life.
A way forward
A National Healthy Ageing Day gives Australia a clear way forward. It focuses national attention on prevention, independence, and the everyday actions that help people stay strong and connected as they age. With rising demand, growing prefrailty, and more years spent in poor health, a coordinated approach is essential.
Download the Positioning Paper to see why this moment matters and how a national day can drive real change.
