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27 organisations will share in an investment of almost $23 million by the Federal Government aimed at getting millions of older Australians moving more often.

As part of its commitment to sport and physical activity, the Australian Government is investing $22.9 million in the Move It Aus Better Ageing Grants over the next two years, with a focus on helping inactive people aged 65 and older to become more physically active and socially connected.

Australia’s population is living longer and Commonwealth Minister for Sport Senator Bridget McKenzie said the Move It Aus Better Ageing program was an important step in helping older Australians to get the most out of their senior years.

Minister McKenzie and Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Ken Wyatt announced the first grant recipients at Perth’s Inglewood United Soccer Club, which will benefit from Football Federation Australia’s Better Ageing Grant to develop a social, small-sided and sustainable version of the game specifically modified for older Australians.

Minister McKenzie advised “as outlined in the Government’s National Sport Plan – Sport 2030 – no matter what your age and no matter what your stage, we’re encouraging all Australians to embrace the philosophy of ‘Movement for Life’. This is a really important step in that process.

“The strong demand for Better Ageing grants shows us that organisations are ready and willing to help older Aussies adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“Physical activity for over 65s is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. The successful organisations will provide a wide range of opportunities, from simple exercise classes in our remote communities through to modified programs in traditional sports such as golf and netball.”

Minister Wyatt said the new programs would benefit hundreds of thousands of senior Australians in coming years, adding “these exciting and engaging activities are about giving us more choices for a longer life, as increasing numbers of Australians live to 100 and beyond.

“Getting out and about through innovative new sports will help us score healthier, happier futures.

“Studies show sport is fun with serious benefits including better heart health and weight control, while it reduces the progression of chronic diseases and the risk of falls.

“Sport’s social connections mean it strengthens not only our bodies but our minds, and helps guard against loneliness in our later years.”

With Australia’s population ageing and, on current trends, the number of Australians aged 65-plus is expected to double in the next 40 years, Minister McKenzie concluded “this shift presents a challenge in broader health terms but provides a chance for sport and physical activity to make a positive difference to the lives of older Australians.”

Currently only 25% of Australians over 65 meet the Department of Health physical activity guidelines of 30 minutes activity per day.

Images: Minister McKenzie and Minister Wyatt announce the first recipients of Move It Aus Better Ageing Grants at Perth’s Inglewood United Soccer Club. Courtesy of Minister McKenzie/Facebook.

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