State Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens, today encouraged local seniors to pick up a free copy of a 2017 diary, to help them navigate legal issues that arise in the year ahead, from the Ku-ring-gai Electorate Office at 27 Redleaf Avenue, Wahroonga.

“Each year, Legal Aid NSW produces a Legal Topics for Older Persons Diary packed with essential information for seniors about their rights and responsibilities,” said Mr Henskens.

“It explains everything from reverse mortgages to what gifts seniors can give without affecting their pension, and what they can do if adult children don’t want to leave home.”

Attorney General Gabrielle Upton said the diary will help older people stay safe and knowledgeable in an ever-changing world.

“Con artists often target vulnerable older people, which is why the diary has information on avoiding scams and browsing the internet safely,” said Ms Upton.

“It also explains new laws that impact on seniors and has a section for older motorists about road rules and safe driving.”

The diary, which is produced in large print, contains literary quotes about getting older and short snippets of “did you know” information, such as eligibility for a Seniors Card or how to provide for pets in a will.

“This is an invaluable resource for older people who sometimes struggle to know where to turn for advice on issues that are increasingly important at this stage of their lives,” said Ms Upton.

Minister for Ageing John Ajaka also commended Legal Aid NSW on the release of the Diary, which is a key outcome of the NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020.

“Through my statewide consultations on our new Ageing Strategy, a major theme I wanted to see addressed was how to better ensure seniors understand their rights,” Mr Ajaka said.  

Media personality Ita Buttrose AO, OBE has written the foreword for the 2017 diary and says the letters she receives on Studio 10’s ‘Ask Ita’ segment show there is a need for the information.

The 2017 Legal Topics for Older Persons Diary is available from 1 December and it can also be obtained from Legal Aid NSW offices, local libraries and some community organisations.

To order the diary online, visit: http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/publications/order-a-publication.

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