Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria is the leading not-for-profit organisation representing the interests and rights of people aged 50+ in Victoria. Celebrating 75 years of service in 2026, we have led government, corporate and community thinking about the positive aspects of ageing. Today, our focus is on promoting opportunities for, and protecting the rights of, older Victorians.
We are a not-for-profit community organisation and fund our activities with the support of government, members, philanthropic trusts, businesses and the public. We have an experienced Board, highly qualified Melbourne staff, and dedicated community volunteers throughout Victoria. As a member-based organisation we are run by, for and with older Victorians.
Seniors Rights Victoria (SRV) is the key state-wide service dedicated to advancing the rights of older people and the early intervention into, or prevention of, elder abuse in our community.
SRV has a team of experienced advocates, lawyers, and social workers who provide free information, advice, referral, legal advice, legal casework, and support to older people who are either at risk of or are experiencing elder abuse. SRV supports and empowers older people through the provision of legal advice directly to the older person.
The reason we exist
We improve the lives of Victorians as they age: by championing the strengths, desires, and decisions of older people.
We believe that ageing is not a problem to be solved, but a powerful and natural phase of life to be lived with meaning, autonomy, and connection.
We work alongside older people to uphold their rights, amplify their voices, and ensure their full participation in the economic, social, and cultural life of our communities.
The impact we’re aiming for
Older Victorians are empowered to make decisions, shape their own futures, and live with purpose at every stage of later life.
We envision a society that recognises the gifts of ageing — experience, wisdom, creativity, andcare — and places older people at its heart.
Through our advocacy, services, partnerships, and campaigns, we unlock the potential of ageing to enrich lives, strengthen communities, and create intergenerational value.
Our values
- Respect
- Diversity
- Collaboration
- Integrity