Advocacy and News

A key word for COTA is “connection” – We stay connected through emailing our database, publishing on our website, Facebook pages, media releases, COTA NT News, Round Tables and ONE COTA contributions. (Find out more about how COTA NT represent seniors).

Following COTA NT’s decision to keep providing an Aged Care Navigator service (January 2023):

“Dear Sue, Congratulations on your decision to continue with ACN in the face of losing the tender for ‘care finder’. You have an exiting successful program, and to not be awarded the new contract is just another example of the Territory’s appalling tender process that appears to be solely based on cost rather than proven performance.
Keep up with the good work and the turn-around that you and your team have achieved in recent years.”
Regards Richard Layton

“Wonderful news thank you. ” Di Rowley

“A sincere thank you.  I am so glad we still have a local contact with a phone number everyone knows, even if we haven’t met Debbie yet.   Thank you, Sue and Debbie.  Thank you to everyone involved.” Kind regards Rosemary Coppock

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On COTA NT’s Seniors Month activities and advocacy in Speech to the House of Representatives (7 September 2022)

Last week I attended the Seniors Expo in Alice Springs as part of Seniors Month. Organised by the Council on the Ageing, or COTA, it was a hive of activity. There were the information stalls one would expect, but as well there were live performances, entertainment, displays, talks and so much more. It was full of colour and life. Being able to meet and talk to some of the elders brought home to me the contributions they make, as senior Territorians and, indeed, senior Australians, not just to their families but to their communities. A lot of those seniors have lived in Alice Springs most of their lives and made an immense contribution to that community.

COTA NT spoke to me about a regular survey that they do, the Cost of Living Survey. They survey all of their members across the Northern Territory. Their latest one showed that many seniors do not have any money left after paying for basic expenses, and this survey was conducted before the massive increase in inflation. There is much to do to address rising costs, but I’m pleased that the Albanese government has made some big announcements. The increase to the age pension, cheaper medicines and the ability to earn more whilst keeping the pension will address some long-term cost-of-living problems.

It was great to interact and talk with those seniors. There is still a lot that they want to contribute, particularly to some of the increasing youth issues that we see across Alice Springs. They’ve lived there most of their lives, so it was great to have a discussion about that. This week’s announcement of an indexation increase to the age pension was so important. A rise of $38.90 for singles and $58.84 for couples will make a difference.

Another important decision that will help the financial health of older Australians is to allow those on a pension to earn more. Age and veteran pensioners will be able to earn an additional $4,000 over this financial year without losing any of their pension. Once the legislation is passed, they can earn up to $11,800 before their pension is reduced. Pensioners will also retain access to their pension concession card and associated benefits for two years. This is an important measure to ensure older Australians have the option to remain in the workforce, if they wish, without losing access to their pension and benefits.

The COTA Cost of Living Survey showed that medical expenses are a significant worry for seniors. The maximum cost to general patients for PBS medications has doubled since the year 2000—doubled, Mr Speaker!—and the previous government did nothing about it. This has resulted in seniors, and others, with medical conditions often delaying filling scripts or not getting medicines at all.

The government has made it easier for seniors. They will be among the millions of Australians who will pay less for their Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme scripts. The savings on just one medication script a month could be as much as $150 a year. This is a real saving that will make a difference to all Australians, but especially seniors. I’m pleased to be part of a government that is delivering a strong healthcare system and support to senior Australians.

I want to acknowledge Sue Shearer, who is the CEO of COTA NT, Fran Kilgariff and all of the other directors of the COTA board in Alice Springs for the important work and advocacy that they provide for senior Territorians in Alice Springs, and certainly for the work and advocacy they do throughout the Northern Territory. Marion Scrymgour MP, Lingiari (Download Speech on Seniors here)

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Sally called this morning to say she heard you on the radio with Katie Wolf and said you were doing a fantastic job with advocating for Seniors.  She said she hasn’t always seen eye to eye with you, but what you do with COTA, thank you for all you are doing, and trying to achieve for the Seniors. She didn’t need you to call her back, she just wanted you to know there are people out there that appreciate you.

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Housing advocacy for Members

“Finally all the obstructions to enter my new residence […] have been resolved because you have done so much good work by contacting so many people in charge of this event…Many thanks to you and accept my sincere gratitude for compensation…!!!..When I have a spare time I shall drop in to the office and say “hello” to everyone…Christmas festivities are approaching and I will wish a “merry Christmas to all the staff present in your office…But,a special “merry Christmas” to you personally Sue who has performed so many good works….Thanks again…!!!.. L. M. 

 “I just want to acknowledge Sue Shearer C.E.O. of C.O.T.A. for supporting  me through my ongoing issues by giving me through Her Window Of Time for Listening, Empathy, Understanding, Cups of Tea, Shared Tears, and Special Hugs. Much appreciated  Sue , With Thanks and God’s Blessings . JA                                         

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“Dear COTA Northern Territory, Thank you for the COTA resources including the Spring September-November addition and the Cultural Background Resources 2022. These resources will be displayed in the Arnhem electorate office for constituents. I want to express my appreciation for NT COTA’s work and advocacy for Senior Territorians.” Selena Uibo MLA, Member for Arnhem (writing to COTA NT CEO, Sue Shearer)

“Dear Ian, As long-term COTA NT members we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the CEO, Ms. Sue Shearer, the Chair Ms. Jan Jewell and team for the very positive achievements in recent years. COTA NT has become the focal point for the Seniors. Kind regards”” Franz and Vera  Kratschmer, Darwin NT 0800 (writing to COTA Australia CEO)

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“The Newspaper is excellent.  Beyond my expectation…. congratulations, we are proud to be part of the initiative.” Marshall and Cherry Perron (talking about Seniors Voice)

I am in my 70’s and still work a few days a month to keep my brain working, also do some aqua and walking my red heeler Ruby. I am fortunate to live in Pearl Retirement Village so have that support as well. Just read the latest magazine and it is just great. All of you at COTA do such an amazing job. Every time I have asked you about issues I have received thoughtful helpful assistance. Thank you for all you do. Ciao Sally Gearin 18 April 2023 – (talking about Seniors Voice)

“Your journal [Seniors Voice] is a quality product. It’s a valuable voice and a useful tool in matters like fighting for affordable accommodation.  Cheers and thanks again for getting back to me.”  H. Rajala, Fannie Bay (talking about Seniors Voice)

“I was delighted to receive the first edition of Seniors Voice NT, with its texture, the smell, the overly large print size, and not needing to remember a password to log in to read it! This outstanding publication serves as a hub for important information to keep senior Territorians informed about the issues that matter most to them and as a place to share real-life stories and experiences that foster a sense of connection and belonging within our communities.” Her Honour the Honourable Vicki O’Halloran AM, Administrator of the Northern Government (talking about Seniors Voice)

“I’ve just read the new Seniors Voice magazine and want to congratulate the team for this professional and accessible publication. Bravo for seeing the gap and filling it with an easy-to-read and easy-to-use magazine. I love that it is available in hard copy, as a downloadable PDF and online in a very easy-to-use format which also enables printing of pages. I’m sending a copy to my 95 year old Mum in Perth!” N Hart, Palmerston (talking about Seniors Voice)

“Hi there, I just want to congratulate you on your first edition, I found it a great read and very informative. Keep up the great work.” G & P Timson (talking about Seniors Voice)

“Interesting reading with wide list of interesting items. Good most items used good sized font size. Well done and much appreciated.” K Cohalan (talking about Seniors Voice)

“Thank you for an excellent first edition, and for the multiple formats available on which to read the Seniors’ Voice. This edition is full of essential information presented clearly and effectively.” Susan Cameron, 2 March 2021 (emailing about Seniors Voice)

“Well done guys, it looks great.” Paul Kirby, Member for Port Darwin 2 March 2021, (talking about Seniors Voice – new style edition – on Facebook)

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“The way in which COTA is wrapping around the needs of all seniors across the Territory is laudable. The organisation is especially mindful and caring towards the needs of indigenous and multicultural members. The aim of the Council in wanting to embrace the NT’s seniors citizens as a group in oneness and unity is being well and truly met.” Grateful Oldster (30 September 2020 in Letter to the Editor, NT News)

“I would however like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you for everything you do to help make life that little bit easier for seniors in the Territory.” Barbara Grant (September 2019)

On Seniors Voice “Congrats on a great article for COTA in the SUN paper.” Maggie Carter

On the review of the Northern Territory Pensioners and Carers Concessions Scheme “WELL done to COTA ..and others..who worked so hard! Congrats” Fiona Darcy

 

On the review of the Northern Territory Pensioners and Carers Concessions Scheme “Hi Cota, great to see you are pushing back to the value of keeping older territorians in the Territory. Hundreds of our mates have headed to the Sunshine State and other places. Keep up the good work.” Roger Steele

On COTA NT News “Thank you to all COTA NT staff and volunteers for keeping us up to date, especially with things relating to NT seniors.”  Lorraine Donfeld

Events

Seniors EXPO in Darwin now brings together over 2000 Territory seniors and community stakeholders

Find out more about events in the Territory for seniors and about COTA NT’s Seniors EXPO.

On COTA NT’s Grandparents Day 2022 event “On behalf of my Family and others who attended Sunday’s Grandparents Day at Casuarina Movies, I would like to say a HUGE Thank You to COTA NT & everyone who assisted to make it a memorable day for everyone. 

Everything was so well organised,  the Movie was exciting, there was popcorn & drinks, tea & biscuits provided,  so everyone felt included. We are very grateful to you. Kind Regards,” Linda Jones & Alf Andreassen. (Happy Grandparents of Hamish & Idris).

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “Mr Deputy Speaker, this evening I speak about a few things that have happened since Parliament last time. As the month of August comes to a close so does the Seniors Month calendar. It was a pleasure to attend COTA’s Seniors Expo in Darwin earlier in the month. It was a great morning with so many more stalls than last year, singing and dancing by the seniors—which was fantastic—to the old music, which I thoroughly enjoyed. There were many service providers there also to assist seniors in a number of ways. ” Mrs Jo Hersey, MLA Katherine to 14th Assembly 55th Session, 30 August 2022 (Adjournment Speech)

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “Congratulations on a fantastic event, it was a great effort by all concerned. The program was well put together & I can imagine the work that went on behind the scenes to deliver it. The venue chosen was ideal being in doors out of the weather, secure & ease of movement for those needing care & assistance. There were an amazing number of exhibitors, well done to the organisers for getting them together. There were some I didn’t know we had in town or other services I didn’t know were available to seniors…The food was very good & plenty of it. The entertainment & promotion of activities from the various groups was excellent. It was great to see the audience get involved & appreciate the groups participating.. Again congratulations on a wonderful event, you can all be very proud of your efforts.  I look forward to next year’s event.” Coral Allan

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “Found everything satisfying” T Pratt

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “I liked the stalls – there was so much information” J O’Reilly

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “Dear Friends, Congratulations to COTA NT on the good work in Alice.” M Clinch

On Seniors Expo (Alice Springs) “We’re having a grand time with volunteers and participants alike” Neighbourhood Watch Alice Springs

On AGED CARE FORUM August 2022 (Alice Springs) “Hi Deb, I really enjoyed the forum yesterday, the calibre of the speakers was excellent. Although not in the “system”  yet I was heartened to hear of the improvements across the board in aged care. Congrats to all involved. Cheers” Pat McDonald

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “The Darwin Expo likely better than the one organised in Adelaide.” Pat Simmons

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “Went to the Expo, though it was great. Plenty information on every stall. Will be there next time.” B O’Doherty

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “Congratulations on such a successful event, what a great turnout!” Ana Nunez, Volunteering NT

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “COTA management, staff and many volunteers need to be congratulated on the delivery of another great community project. The CDU Netball Stadium at Marrara, is an ideal venue as it is accessible, spacious, airconditioned with all the required amenities and ample free parking spaces. Our information stall was in a clearly visible location and staffed by Monica, Allan, John S and Don. We had very good discussions with many people, probably the best we have experienced so far, which was very pleasing. As well, practically all our hand out literature was taken up.” Don Lockyer, Prostate Cancer Support

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “Thank you again for inviting MVR to be a part of the Seniors Expo. We received positive engagement from the 2,500 Seniors in attendance and were asked a lot of questions which we were able to answer. We also registered some customers in the MVR database so they will receive their vehicle registration and driver licence concessions in the future. It was a great opportunity and we really appreciated your offer to join along so thank you.” Road Safety NT, Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “Thank you COTA. And Congratulations. COTA has done it again. Seniors ‘ expo is always a great success. The highlight of the year. Always enjoy it. And the venue is super with plenty of car parking.  All the best.” May and John Hulme

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the Seniors Expo at the Netball Stadium an outstanding success. The number of people attending this event is increasing each year and its popularity is spreading.
It is because of dedicated COTA Staff and Volunteers who put a lot of time and effort into this event that make it the great event it is becoming.  THANK YOU very much from the bottom of my heart for all your effort it is very much appreciated. Cheers” Jan Jewell, COTA NT Chair

 

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “Most enjoyable, well done and the band from Pearl was great.” Angela J

 

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin) “This was my first time attending the Seniors Expo and I have to congratulate everyone involved in organising this event. My friend and I had a great time and picked up some really great information about what is available to Seniors. So thankyou so looking forward to next years already.” Sharon C

On SENIORS EXPO 2022 (Darwin)“It was my first time attending, it was very informative, well organised and well attended, looking forward to next years” Dot M

 

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Alice Springs) “Need a massive shout out too, to organisers and those who gave their time for our information and entertainment and chance to meet friends. Congratulations to all” Rosalie Breen

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Alice Springs) “Thankyou COTA for a wonderful day, it was great to see so many friends , looking forward to seeing everyone next year” Phyllis Prescott

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Darwin) “Congratulations to all at COTA NT for the great job at Seniors Expo. We enjoyed it very much. The venue was great and spacious with ample of underground car parking. The exhibits were good and informative. Lots of presents. The COTA staff were very helpful. Plenty of entertainment. It was a great success. Thank you.” May Hulme

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Darwin) “Congratulations COTA on a successful 6th annual Seniors Expo. Well done to all involved. … Board, staff, and volunteers.” Maria Scarlett

 

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Darwin) “A great event, the COTA organisers have excelled themselves, creating a hard act to follow in 2022. Many thanks.” Allan Mitchell

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Darwin) “Thank you for a great event. Thanks especially for the children’s activities, my little grandsons had a ball.” Patricia Stephenson

On SENIORS EXPO 2021 (Darwin) “It was great..thanks everyone!” Fiona Foster Darcy

On SENIORS EXPO “Hi Sue, Lina and Steph, Yesterday’s Expo was a very successful event. I know how much effort is put in by Sue, LIna and Steph especially pulling all this together. On behalf of the board and myself I would like to thank you and all the volunteers who helped to make this the success it was. It certainly puts COTA’s name out there in front of seniors and organisations as the peak body for seniors in the Territory. Once again thank you very much for all your efforts.” Jan Jewell Chair, COTA NT

On SENIORS EXPO “Thank you to everyone who helped in such a fantastic day.” Robin Knox

 

On SENIORS EXPO “I thought it was a great day and appreciate the effort and planning that is behind pulling the Expo together. Well done. Sharon Tentye

 

On SENIORS EXPO “GREAT EXPO TODAY!!!! It was really well organised and just a lovely venue and day.” Tania Roberts

 

On SENIORS EXPO “Thank you Steph, Can I just say that programme looked absolutely incredible!  What a FANTASTIC job you and the team have done!” Miriam Nuttall

 

On SENIORS EXPO “Really good event at the Seniors Expo! We signed plenty of new clients and tested over 40 people throughout day! All your hard work really paid off” Faye Dickson, Australian Hearing

Programs

COTA NT volunteers during Seniors Month in August

Read more about the COTA NT programs – Fit for Life, Knowledge for Life, MASP, Peer Education, PICAC, Seniors Month,  Staying Connected, Volunteering

On Bunnings craft workshop “To all of you our sincere thanks for this weeks arrangements. It was great to enjoy COTA’s hospitality. Today’s Bunnings session very enjoyable. Have a lovely weekend,” Vera and Franz Kratschmer

On DCA weaving workshop “It was a fun morning. Thanks ladies.” Carol Ohh

On Devonshire morning tea fundraiser “Very enjoyable morning, thanks” Angela James

On iPad training “Thanks for the last few weeks. Have really enjoyed and learnt.” Marg Eldridge

On Fit for Life programming “Attended my first Chair Pilates class last week and loved it. I felt this class would suit people who have back issues and are unable to do exercise on the floor. Sharon was terrific and I was surprised how hard we worked. I intend making it a regular when I am in town. Thanks Steph and Sharon.” Suzie Berger

On Seniors Month BCC movie and morning tea “Great film thank you very much.” Denis Newsham

On volunteering “A very caring and loving team to be working with.” Di Barclay

On volunteering “…feeling proud to be part of such a caring, sharing team with so much passion for helping our Senior Territorians” Yvonne Smith

Support

Your Well-Being Your Plan – conversations facilitated by COTA NT

COTA NT’s staff and volunteers offer support and assistance to seniors online, on the phone and for face-to-face meetings (appointments may be required). It publishes INFORMATION to inform and empower seniors on its website on a wide variety of topics.

On Consumer Directed Care “Hi Lina, Thank you so much for your response.  I nearly cried reading your email.   I was wondering, if I brought some of mum’s current contract and paper work in regards to her package and what she is currently receiving, would you mind going through this with me.  Even if it is to just explain what means “what”.  Once again, thank you so much for responding. Kind Regards” Coleen Harris 

On providing support for Danila Dilba renal group “I would like to take this opportunity to deeply thank and acknowledge the support COTA has provided for our clients to continue their physical activity program and how welcoming and professional the team have been to us and our clients. Many thanks Kind regards” Karrina Demasi, Chronic Disease Care Coordinator Danila Dilba Health Service

On the year’s work “Wishing Stephanie and COTA (NT) team A Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed Happy New Year 2017. Thank you all for your great job, for looking after the Senior Territorians in 2016.” Regards, John and May Hulme

Membership Perks

COTA members at the Peking Opera, Darwin Entertainment Centre

Read more about COTA NT membership

On receiving COTA invitation to DEC “Am just back from the Peking Opera – was fabulous! everything about it was great, from the fabulous costumes, amazing facial expressions, acrobatics and all the dance! Thanks for the opportunity/ticket. Merry Christmas!” Frances Abbott

On receiving COTA invitation to DEC “Thank you COTA for the tickets to the Peking Opera. It was a magnificent event. Happy Christmas from us both.” Fred and Lyn Barlow

 

On receiving COTA invitation to DEC “For now, a BIG THANKYOU to Cota for organising the morning. I really enjoyed the performance, as did all I saw there and have been able to ask. Again, many thanks. “

Fred Mitchell

 

On receiving COTA invitation to DEC “Good Morning Stephanie, Just a note to thank you for the opportunity to attend this most enjoyable event. My friend and I really appreciated it, as well as the ideal seat allocation.

What a great idea to be able to offer such an opportunity. Regards” Sandra Parker