Seniors Clubs & Associations
ECCV is committed to advocating for and supporting multicultural seniors clubs and associations in Victoria.
Multicultural and ethno-specific seniors groups provide many social, health, educational and practical benefits for their members. Seniors with a strong social network have a happier life and experience better health. A connected older person is also at lower risk of experiencing isolation and elder abuse.
By providing community and social support to older people’s lives, and serving as a forum for information-sharing, seniors clubs and associations help their members remain active, healthy and engaged, and can prevent premature entry into aged care. Perhaps most significantly, they provide an environment that generates confidence and interaction between older people, so that they feel comfortable to express their culture, eat their favourite food, and socialise using their preferred language with people from similar backgrounds.
In 2016, it was estimated that there are approximately 735 ethnic and multicultural seniors’ clubs and associations in Victoria, with a combined membership of 68,000 senior Victorians. Many of these are supported by ECCV through our capacity-building workshops, which aim to help seniors to age well and to help seniors groups to develop sustainable governance structures.
To find a seniors group near you, please contact your local council or Neighbourhood House.
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Positive Ageing Information Sessions
ECCV offers free information sessions for seniors clubs and associations on a range of issues designed to grow the sustainability of groups and promote the health and wellbeing of members.
Each information session runs between one to two hours and is adapted to meet the needs of individual groups. Sessions are conducted in-language where possible. Some of the topics covered include:
- Respectful relationships for seniors in our community
- Financial planning and benefits for seniors
- Improving computer and online skills
- Governance and funding opportunities for seniors groups
Click below to find out more and book a session for your group today.
Grants and funding opportunities
There are many grant and funding opportunities available for seniors groups. Many local councils offer grants to assist with the operational costs of setting up or maintaining a senior club or association. Some councils have specific roles, such as Positive Ageing Officers, who are focused on supporting ageing well initiatives in their local area.
ECCV offers information sessions on funding opportunities and governance for seniors groups. Find out more about our Positive Ageing Information Sessions and book one for your group here.
Here is a list of Victorian grant opportunities for seniors groups:
- Multicultural grants | Victorian Multicultural Commission
- Multicultural Seniors Support Program
- Seniors Online
- Community Grants hub (paid subscription required)
Useful links & resources
ECCV has gathered the following websites to assist Seniors Clubs & Associations:
Further Information
To find out more about how ECCV can support your seniors club or association, contact Hayat Doughan (Ageing Well Coordinator).
Phone: (03) 9354 9555
Email: hdoughan@eccv.org.au