Ageism is a global challenge posing significant consequences such as poor health, social isolation and economic costs amounting to billions. Manifesting in subtle biases or overt discriminatory practices, ageism is a prevalent form of prejudice impacting both communities and individuals.

Local government plays a vital role in connecting with all age groups, offering services, volunteering opportunities, and employment for those aged 60 and above.

Recognising this unique capacity, Campbelltown City Council (SA) has launched an online Ageism Awareness Training program for its staff, volunteers, and elected members.

This project is supported by funding from Office for Ageing Well through the Age-Friendly Communities Grant and developed by Enlightening Education. The program aims to raise awareness about ageism, its power, and impact, utilising storytelling to equip participants with tools to challenge stereotypes and assumptions.

Tailored for local government stakeholders, the training encourages self-reflection on ageism and promotes a shift in perspective. It addresses the power of language, challenges stereotypes about abilities, explores real impacts of ageism, and guides learners towards adopting age-friendly, person-centred approaches when interacting with older people.

The training was tested by staff, volunteers and community members who provided outstanding feedback:

“The training captures really sensitive real-life issues in a way that makes the impact clear. It is informative, thought provoking and professional” – Council Staff Member

“I thought I knew a bit about ageism but it really made me think about my unconscious biases and some of the language that I know I have used.” – Librarian

“All of the stories were really powerful and conveyed the messages really well. I was most impacted by Glenda and Deni's stories as I was moved to tears.” – Council Staff Member

“Seeing real people with real stories reinforces the hurt and misunderstanding many feel.” – Community Member and Volunteer

Campbelltown’s Ageing Well Advisory Committee maintains a continuous focus on tackling ageism within the community. It has strongly advocated to tackle ageism and has embedded the commitment in policy and now through training. An online module allows easy, accessible ongoing training for all new staff, volunteers and Elected Members into the future.

Recognising the importance of collaboration, the training is freely available online, extending beyond Campbelltown, South Australia to share insights with local government organisations and community groups across the country interested in understanding and addressing ageism within their own communities.

Campbelltown City Council remains committed to creating an age-friendly community and encourages ongoing conversations to challenge ageism, urging staff, volunteers, and elected members to be part of the solution.

For more information regarding the Ageism Awareness Module, contact Bianca Connelly bconnelly@campbelltown.sa.gov.au.