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

Dementia is not exclusively a problem of the developed world.

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

We are increasingly recognising and accepting, respecting and celebrating, our cultural diversity.

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.

Advances in science and medical research and public health policies have meant that life expectancy for Australians is one of the highest in the world.

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