A $34 million centre to help transform the way Australia supports its ageing community has been established at Adelaide's Flinders University.
The project has the support of the federal government and brings together the aged care industry, older people themselves and the nation's experts to develop innovative products and services.
It is supported by 73 collaborative partners including consumer advocacy and representative groups, aged care service providers, research organisations, commercial partners, social enterprise and workforce development organisations and the South Australian government.
University Vice-Chancellor Colin Stirling said its work will help develop the capability of Australia's aged care workforce and translate research and innovation into best practice.
"Dementia, restorative care and rehabilitation, mental wellbeing, and social isolation have all been identified as priority areas for the centre in its first year," Professor Stirling said.
"It's carefully considered, it's comprehensive, and crucially, it will ensure the voices and needs of older people and their families are central and are heard."
The centre, which will be fully operational from January, will employ 30 staff and deliver 600 internships for aged care workers as well as funding 60 research grants to improve aged care.
Professor of Health Ageing Sue Gordon, who will lead research activities, said the new centre was a "once in a generation opportunity" to transform the way Australia supported its ageing society.
"The most important outcome will be to drive growth in the provision of aged care that is aligned with innovation and based on increased workforce capacity and capability, enabling change that is safe, delivers high-quality outcomes and increases the opportunity for all Australians to enjoy healthy, well-supported ageing," she said.
