What older Victorians want
As Victorians prepare to vote on 28 November, we've been asking older people what they want from those seeking their vote.
The message is clear. Older Victorians want action on community safety, responsible economic management and better access to healthcare.
These priorities are outlined in National Seniors Australia's 2026 Victorian Election Priorities document, developed from feedback provided by seniors across the state.
Read our Victorian Election Priorities document here.
Importantly, this election may have significance well beyond Victoria. With a federal election on the horizon, the Victorian campaign could prove to be a litmus test for the issues that resonate most strongly with older Australians and the broader community.
Safety matters
Community safety emerged as one of the strongest themes in our survey.
Many older Victorians told us they want governments to take practical steps to reduce crime and improve public safety. This includes stronger laws and sentencing, reform of bail and parole arrangements, and increased investment in policing.
Feeling safe in our homes, neighbourhoods and communities is fundamental to quality of life, and it is clear this is an issue many seniors expect candidates to address.
Responsible economic management
Economic management was another major priority.
Older Victorians told us they want to see governments take debt and spending seriously while strengthening accountability and integrity. Many also highlighted the importance of supporting pensioners and people doing it tough as cost-of-living pressures continue to affect households across the state.
For seniors, sound economic management is not an abstract concept. It influences government services, affordability and confidence about the future.
Better healthcare
Access to healthcare remains a significant concern.
Survey respondents highlighted the need for improved access to health services, shorter waiting times, stronger support for dental and aged care services, and an adequately staffed healthcare workforce.
As Victoria's population ages, ensuring older people can access timely, affordable and high-quality care will become only more important.
Seniors have diverse priorities
While community safety, economic management and healthcare were the strongest themes, our survey also highlighted the diversity of interests among older Victorians.
Participants raised concerns about transport, housing affordability, infrastructure, education, fairness and environmental issues.
Others pointed to rental affordability, housing insecurity and homelessness. While many highlighted the importance of respect, tolerance and social cohesion.
These findings reinforce something we often say at National Seniors Australia: older Australians are not a single voting bloc. They have diverse experiences, circumstances and priorities.
That is why we encourage all candidates to look beyond a narrow policy agenda and consider the full range of issues affecting older Victorians.
A chance for candidates to listen
This election presents an opportunity for candidates from all parties to demonstrate they understand the needs and aspirations of older people.
Whether the issue is strengthening community safety, addressing cost-of-living pressures, improving healthcare access or tackling housing insecurity, older Victorians want practical solutions that will improve life today and into the future.
As National Seniors Australia celebrates its 50th anniversary, we remain committed to defending, protecting and promoting the interests of older Australians. With more than 35,000 supporters in Victoria and more than 300,000 nationally, we will continue to ensure the voices of older people are heard.
Read our Victorian Election Priorities document
Didn't get a chance to fill out the survey? Join our NSA supporters group for future opportunities to have your say.
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