10-year National Dementia Action Plan announced

The Albanese government has released its National Dementia Action Plan 2024-2034, aimed at creating a nation that's more “dementia inclusive.”

The government's objectives are threefold: to increase national awareness and knowledge of dementia; reduce the entire population's risk of developing the disease; and to develop better quality and more coordinated national dementia services.

There are an estimated 411,000 people currently living with dementia nationwide, and that number is projected to double over the next 30 years.

Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said this is why the Labor government has committed to strengthening the country's dementia resources.

“Dementia is a national health priority for our government and the National Dementia Action Plan reflects this,” he said.
 
“This historic plan is a reminder that while we have made huge advancements in treatment there is more to be done to raise awareness, diagnose, and care for individuals and community impacted by dementia.”

The plan was developed in collaboration with all state and territory governments, aged care workers, health professionals, researchers and peak bodies. Most importantly though, the Plan considered the voices of people living with dementia and their support networks.

The document covers eight key areas for improvement and responds to 15 Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety recommendations, as well as ticking off the government's obligation to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Action Plan on the Public Health Response to Dementia 2017-2025.

“Dementia Australia is committed to working with the Government and across the sector on the delivery of the National Dementia Action Plan and to ensure we have the right systems in place for all Australians impacted to be able to access appropriate services and more treatments as they become available,” said Dementia Australia chief Professor Tanya Buchanan.
 
“I acknowledge the extensive contributions by people living with dementia, their families and carers in creating the Action Plan and congratulate the Federal Government along with State and Territory Governments and key stakeholders that were involved in developing the plan.”

In September, Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) released the findings of a global study that showed 80 per cent of the general public incorrectly believe that dementia is a normal part of ageing.

Key to The National Dementia Action Plan is the education of the general public, reducing stigma and working towards earlier diagnosis.

Dementia Training Australia executive director Dr Isabelle Meyer said the Plan is crucial to improving quality of life for people with Dementia.

“The National Dementia Action Plan is not just a policy; it is a promise to Australians living with dementia and their loved ones. It acknowledges that dementia is a societal challenge requiring a collective response,” she said.
 
“Whether it’s a café worker learning how to assist a distressed customer or a financial adviser safeguarding vulnerable clients, education transforms our ability to support those living with dementia.”

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The Plan details eight key actions to be implemented within the next decade:
 
Action 1: Promote equity and human rights
 
Action 2: Tackle stigma, improve awareness and promote inclusivity
 
Action 3: Empower individuals and communities to minimise risk where they can, and delay onset and progression
 
Action 4: Improve dementia diagnosis and post‑diagnostic care and support
 
Action 5: Improve treatment, coordination and support for people living with dementia
 
Action 6: Support carers of people living with dementia
 
Action 7: Build capability of the workforce to care for and support people living with dementia
 
Action 8: Improve dementia data, maximise the impact of dementia research and promote innovation

Source: The Department of Health and Aged Care