Building social connections for seniors

Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services in Wyong has received a $30,000 grant as part of the 2025 Connecting Seniors Grant Program which aims to reduce social isolation among older people.

Under the Connecting Seniors Grant Program 2025, the NSW Government awarded $840,000 to 28 organisations to deliver projects that foster and build social connections for older people.

The Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services project, Connecting Elders in Darkinjung Country, aims to foster community engagement and cultural connection among the senior members of the Darkinjung community.

It focuses on cultural revitalisation with seniors playing a crucial role in preserving and passing down traditional knowledge, stories, and practices to younger generations.

Regular gatherings and events are organised to celebrate the rich heritage of the Darkinjung people, such as storytelling nights and cultural ceremonies, and intergenerational activities build strong bonds between the generations.

Essential services and support are provided to seniors, ensuring their wellbeing and active participation in community life, including help to learn social technology.

The Connecting Seniors Grant Program funds locally driven projects, programs or activities that support seniors to connect with others, foster social inclusion for older people and address the challenges that contribute to social isolation.

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said these projects could provide a social lifeline for seniors who often lived alone.

“It’s important that we provide as many opportunities as we can for seniors to stay engaged with their communities and even try new experiences.,” she said.

Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said he was delighted that the Connecting Seniors grant program would help seniors in our community through the Connecting Elders in Darkinjung Country project.

“We want to ensure our seniors are staying connected to our community and feel included and valued – this project will help them do just that,” he said.