Resident-led committees inspire
and motivate our residents

A common concern for people considering aged care is fearing a loss of control over things that are important to them.

Resident-led committees at our Care Communities are an important way we support our residents to retain agency in their lives. These committees are formed by residents with similar interests, who wish to lead or advocate for specific interest groups at their Care Community, for example a gardening committee or social events committee. Our team are not involved in choosing the type of committee or running it, but do provide assistance where required.

Our Goal is to have an active resident-led committee at each Care Community by December 2025.

At Croydon Place Care Community in Melbourne’s east, our resident-led gardening committee has created an inspiring tribute to the diverse cultures represented by residents.

The committee shared a common vision of transforming their surroundings into a living tapestry of heritage and connection that also reflects their local community. Residents planned and designed four unique spaces. Working with our Croydon Place team, they created an Australian garden, a Mediterranean garden, an English garden and a Japanese garden.

These gardens are more than just landscapes; they’re stories told through plants, colours and traditions, offering comfort, familiarity, and nurturing a sense of belonging. The committee’s efforts gained momentum when Bendigo Bank in Mooroolbark recognised our residents’ efforts by generously sponsoring the purchase of plants to bring their vision to life.

“No matter our age, we all have the ability to create something meaningful, something lasting and something beautiful.”

 - Resident, Croydon Place Care Community

At Melville Parkside Care Community in Perth’s south, residents formed a Wellbeing committee to encourage more opportunities for exercise. Led by residents Jean, Nancy and Joan, the committee identified an opportunity to better use the physiotherapy room for self-directed fitness activities. Working with our Melville Parkside team, they undertook a renovation program to repaint the space, procure new gym equipment such as weights and mini exercise bikes, and chose storage containers to make small equipment easily accessible. Residents were then invited to meet with physical and occupational therapists to design an appropriate personalised, self-directed program.

The Wellbeing committee now announces activities during lunchtime meal service to encourage residents who may struggle to engage in Care Community life.

“It’s helped to bring everyone together,” says wellbeing manager Vanessa. “We’ve seen people who wouldn’t normally attend coming along to our activities. It’s given those residents a real sense of companionship. Our trivia has become particularly popular!”