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31 government recently launched a new initiative that aims to refresh the national health strategy. Simon himself is a member of the expert advi- sory panel that’s refreshing the health strategy of older people. Through that, he provides “an industry and sector perspective to these devel- opments” as the association does for other poli- cies as well. On top of that, the association is heavily in- volved in the review of the provision of pallia- tive care in New Zealand as the number of such patients has increased significantly. Due to the complexities involved in residential care, the association needs to inform the government of the sector’s intricacies on a frequent basis. As Simon says it, this is a hugely important part of their work, the active interaction between the association and the government bodies respon- sible for the formation and application of new policies. ASPIRING FOR A BETTER TOMORROW Looking into the future, the association’s goals are clear. Throughout its history, NZACA has worked to gain recognition for the importance of the sector, especially seeing that the aged population is steadily increasing over the years. Of course, policy issues like the Equal Pay Case are also hugely important for the association. “Recognition by government of the value of the aged care sector and the workforce, particularly in terms of the Equal Pay Case. Sealing that case would be a great start. Looking at a long-term sustainable model at the time where the aging population is increasing. I’ll be happy if we can achieve those”, comments Simon. The association’s workload looks to be as heavy as ever in the coming years. Changes in the sec- tor, influenced by technology and official poli- cies, provide a constant need to stay updated and involved. As they are heavily involved in every part of the sector and passionate about their work, the team of the association is always highlighting the importance of the industry for New Zealand as a whole. Judging by their previ- ous efforts, it’s safe to say that the association’s members will at least have a strong, influen- tial voice guiding them and the government to- wards a better future for everyone involve.