Free Planning Ahead Sessions for Older Residents
Published on 12 October 2026
Hindmarsh Shire Council has partnered with Seniors Rights Victoria and the Federal Government to deliver free ‘Planning Ahead’ sessions covering enduring powers of attorney, medical treatment decision-making and advance care planning.
These sessions are being hosted as part of Council’s Victoria Seniors Festival program. The Victorian Seniors Festival is a major statewide celebration led by the Victorian Government and supported by local councils, community groups, clubs and organisations, including COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria. Created for and with older Victorians, the festival encourages people to come together, explore new interests, make connections and enjoy a wide range of fun and engaging activities.
Seniors Rights Victoria representative Shelley Hosking will present information about protecting the rights of older people and preventing elder abuse. Seniors Rights Victoria is a specialist community legal centre and a member of the Federation of Community Legal Centres Victoria and the national association Community Legal Centres Australia.
Liz Martin will attend on behalf of the Aged Care Division of Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to provide information about the Aged Care Act. Her presentation will cover access and eligibility, navigating the aged care system, service delivery, and some of the challenges and unintended consequences arising from implementation.
The session will include topics such as:
- Enduring Powers of Attorney
- Medical Treatment Decision Making
- Advance Care Planning
- My Aged Care
The sessions are free to attend with opportunities for questions and discussion.
Nhill
Monday 19 October 2026
Hindmarsh Shire Council Chambers, 92 Nelson Street Nhill
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Jeparit
Tuesday 20 October 2026
Jeparit Memorial Hall, 10 Roy Street, Jeparit
10:00am – 12:00pm
Dimboola
Tuesday 20 October 2026
Old Shire Hall, 101 Lloyd Street, Dimboola
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Cr Ron Ismay said, “These free information sessions are a valuable opportunity to hear from experts about issues that affect older residents and their families. Planning ahead allows important conversations and decisions to take place before they are needed.”
The Planning Ahead sessions are being held as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival 2026 under the theme ‘Connect, Create, Celebrate’ and have been made possible with support from the Victorian Government.
Light refreshments will be provided. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. To book or find out more about the Planning Ahead Sessions, contact Council’s Customer Service Team on 03 5391 4444 or info@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.
Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer