We know we are entering a period of transformation in aged care.

Australia has an increasingly multicultural society.

The strongest initiative that government can take to ensure Australia is prepared for population ageing, is to maintain a strong economy, and a secure nation.

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

Greater public recognition will also be critical in encouraging prevention and early intervention, and more generally in building public support to meet the challenges of dementia.

Prevention is one of the few known ways to reduce demand for health and aged care services.

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.