008
Message from the Commissioner
I am encouraged to see the results clearly demonstrate the potential of a single educational session to
reduce ageist attitudes and behaviours, sustained over time. Surveys conducted before and after an
awareness session found significant improvements in ageist attitudes and ageing expectations among
participants immediately following the session. These improvements remained stable in a follow-up
survey conducted 2–3 months later, suggesting the workshop may have lasting effects.
These findings support my long-held belief that ageism may be the most accepted form of prejudice,
but it is also the easiest to shift. I was also pleased that the participants recommend the workshop to
a broad range of individuals, reflecting its relevance and applicability across various contexts.
Ageism is an urgent social issue which demands evidence-based interventions to increase awareness,
break down stereotypes, and challenge ageist behaviour. The Commission’s findings provide solid
preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of educational interventions in combatting ageism within
Australian society and set the groundwork for further research.
As one workshop participant said, ‘ageism is everyone’s business’, and I encourage everyone to
consider what they can do to challenge ageist stereotypes and promote a more inclusive society for
people of all ages.