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About this submission
COTA Victoria welcomes the opportunity to contribute to this inquiry into community consultation practices in Victoria. As the peak body representing older Victorians, our core mission includes advocating for the rights and interests of older people and ensuring their voices are heard in public policy and planning. Through our policy and engagement work, we have extensive experience both in conducting consultations ourselves and in participating in those led by government and other agencies.
Over the years, we have contributed to a wide range of consultations, drawing on insights from our members and broader stakeholder networks. These contributions are grounded in real-world experiences, gathered through targeted surveys, focus groups, and ongoing conversations with older people across Victoria. This approach ensures that our advocacy consistently reflects the lived realities and diverse perspectives of older individuals.
Given our deep engagement with consultation processes, we hold a strong interest in the structures, standards, and outcomes of public consultations in Victoria. This submission offers guidance on how to make these processes more inclusive and effective. In line with the guidance offered in this submission, we suggest consideration of the following key questions:
- Are all older people aware that a consultation is taking place and that their input is valued?
- Are consultation materials and information accessible and understandable to all older people?
- Can all older people easily and confidently participate in the consultation process?
- Does the process actively promote emotional, cultural, and psychological safety?