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
iLA’s National Healthy Ageing Day on May 6 invited Australians to rethink how we speak about and experience ageing.
Under the theme of Keep doing what matters, the day celebrated living well, not just living longer. It was a reminder that it’s never too early or too late to make small changes that support healthy ageing and create a lasting impact.
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.
National Healthy Ageing Day 2026
Australia’s very first National Healthy Ageing Day created a moment to focus national attention on prevention, independence, and the everyday actions that help people live and age well.
The campaign turned awareness into action, empowering individuals, communities, and organisations to turn healthy ageing into reality through practical, evidence‑informed resources.
Across the country, peak bodies, aged care leaders, and individuals shared inspiring stories and healthy ageing initiatives, joining iLA to build momentum for real, lasting change.
Impact
The first National Healthy Ageing Day connected communities, organisations, and ideas, turning awareness into action by empowering Australians with everyday ways to support healthier, more connected ageing.
Website sessions
Resources explored
Resources downloaded
Social posts shared
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.
Keep doing what matters is the heart of healthy ageing. It is not about pushing limits or chasing perfection. It is about having the capability to live the life you value, and staying connected, active, and engaged in what gives your life meaning.
Hilary O’Connell Principal Advisor – Healthy Ageing & Reablement, iLA
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.
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.
