Redland Shire Council has released an Aged Persons Housing Strategy to accommodate a predicted sustained level of growth in Shire’s older age (over 65 years) population.
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“The strategy is Council’s plan to address the demands on housing and services that will come from having more, mature-aged people in the Redlands,” Mayor Don Seccombe said. “It is concerned primarily with housing for aged persons, but it also incorporates additional matters such as access to services, education and advocacy, in a coordinated approach to managing a larger ageing population.
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“Measures outlined in the strategy will be incorporated in the new Redlands Planning Scheme.
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“The strategy contains an action plan which is being distributed to key stakeholders in the community.”
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The Mayor said the strategy reflected the wider community views, represented through a Community Reference Panel, comprised of representatives from Commonwealth and State Government agencies, various community groups, developers, and, operators of aged persons facilities within the Shire.
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“This process provides critical direction to Council in attempting to address the needs of aged persons.”
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The Mayor said there were six key issues, and associated action plans, addressed in the strategy:
1. Housing choice and affordability;
2. Housing location and design;
3. Integration with the wider community;
4. Education and advocacy;
5. Access to services; and
6. Environmental impacts.
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“These matters came from written responses to the Community Reference Panel and general discussion throughout the consultation process.
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“The strategy’s recommendations go beyond the responsibilities of Council, but provide advocacy to a number of strategic actions, funding and program facilitation, by other responsible levels of government.
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The Mayor said the strategy supports Council’s Community Health and Well-being and Physical Character strategic priorities in providing services to support community life and opportunities for participation and development, while also preserving a balance with the rural, bushland, village and coastal character of the Redlands by managing growth.
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