When the Australian Government looked at how to meet the challenges, and the opportunities, presented by our ageing population, it saw that an all-encompassing approach was a prerequisite.

We are already seeing older people wanting greater choice in how, when and where they receive care.

Today it has been estimated that the average 70 year old has four chronic conditions and consumes an average of 35 PBS scripts per year for those conditions.

The message from the United States and Europe is that governments must live within their means.

And I believe that the best buy in public health today must be a combination of regular physical exercise and a healthy diet.

Australia is already a world leader in dementia research, treatment and care.

It is a fact that governments tend to put in place policies and strategies in response to current scenarios.