G-G pays tribute to aged care industry

Her Excellency Quentin Bryce, officially opening the ACSA National Conference in Hobart.

The Governor-General paid tribute to the aged care industry at the opening ceremony of the Aged and Community Services Australia (ACSA) National Conference in Hobart.

Her Excellency Quentin Bryce, was warmly welcomed by over 800 delegates when she delivered her address on Monday morning.

“Thank you for your commitment and concerted efforts,” she told the conference audience.

“I wish you well in your discussions over the coming days.”

The Governor-General encouraged the industry to keep finding innovative solutions to meet the needs of an ageing population.

“It’s hard to think of an issue more universal and more deeply personal than ageing,” said Her Excellency, Mrs Bryce.

“It is happening to all of us, although some of us are further along the continuum than others.

“What has struck us particularly over the last decade, is that whether it is in our work, personal or family lives, the challenges and triumphs of ageing belong to us all.”

The Governor-General also urged delegates to do their best to promote positive ageing.

“We have to trust that we are well equipped,” she said. “We have to believe that with the capacity to achieve longevity, we also have the capacity to sustain it.

“If not, then in fact, we have not achieved [longevity] at all.”