Useful information
This page provides links to practical information, services, and support for seniors, carers, and their families or friends in the Bellingen Shire. From staying active and healthy to accessing aged care and advocacy services, this page brings everything you need to stay independent, connected, and supported in one place.
Select each tab to expand and view further details.
Council Services and Facilities
Access and Inclusion Reference Group
Our Access and Inclusion Reference Group brings together community members with lived experience of disability, carers, advocates, and service providers to help make our region more inclusive and accessible for all.
The group provides advice and feedback to Council on projects, plans, and policies to ensure that everyone can participate fully in community life.
Dorrigo Support Centre
The Dorrigo Support Centre, based at Hickory House, is funded by the Commonwealth Government to support seniors (65+) and their carers to live independently and maintain their chosen lifestyle. Staff provide social support and opportunities for connection through activities such as group lunches, bus trips, overnight stays, games, and an annual supported holiday.
Dorrigo Support Centre is also proud to provide advocacy, respite, information/referrals, volunteers, and support for carers.
For more information see the Dorrigo Support Centre webpage or call 02 6657 2896.
Accessible Services, Information and Features
Bellingen Shire Council is committed to making our community inclusive for everyone.
See the Accessible Services, Information and Features page for a list of services designed to make it easier for people of all abilities to access Council facilities, events, and resources. From accessible venues to communication tools and support services, you’ll find everything you need in one convenient place.
Seniors Festival
Each year, Bellingen Shire Council proudly celebrates the NSW Seniors Festival – the largest annual event for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere. As part of this statewide celebration, Council puts together a diverse program of activities, events, and opportunities designed to recognise and celebrate the contributions of older people in our community.
For up-to-date information visit Seniors Festival of Bellingen Shire
Pensioner Rebate
Bellingen Council offers rates concessions to eligible pensioners. To be an eligible pensioner you must receive a pension from either Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and be entitled to a pensioner concession card issued by the Commonwealth Government. You can apply for a pensioner rebate by visiting Apply for a pensioner rebate of Bellingen Shire
For your convenience, local libraries at Urunga, Bellingen, and Dorrigo can assist in photocopying and forwarding documents to Council for processing. Alternatively, the form and identification can be submitted at Council.
State and Federal Government funded Services
My Aged Care
If you need aged care services funded by the Australian Government, the first step is to visit the My Aged Care website. Here you can find information about available services, check your eligibility, and begin the process of registering and arranging an assessment for the support you need.
For more information visit the My Aged Care website or call 1800 200 422
Services Australia – Ageing support
Services Australia supports older Australians, as well as their representatives or nominees, to access and navigate My Aged Care. General information is available at all service centres, with Aged Care Specialist Officers (ACSOs) providing face-to-face appointments in selected locations for more detailed support.
Appointments can be made by calling the Aged Care Line 1800 227 475 or by visiting any service centre. For more information visit Ageing - Services Australia
EACH Care finder connect
Care finder connect helps older adults who need extra support to help access My Aged Care and other supports. They can help you to:
- understand your care options
- meet with assessment services
- fill in forms and paperwork
- connect with local support.
For more information visit - Care finder connect - Each or call 1300 003 224
Carers NSW
Carers NSW provides information, resources, and support services to unpaid carers across New South Wales, helping them manage their caring role and maintain their own wellbeing. This includes Carers Gateway, an Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers
More details are available on the Carers NSW website or call 1800 422 737.
Seniors Rights Service
The Seniors Rights Service supports older people with free legal advice, advocacy and information. It is a community organisation dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of older people in New South Wales.
For more information visit Protecting the rights of older people - Seniors Rights Service or call 02 9281 3600
Older Persons Advocacy Network
OPAN provides advocacy and support services to help older Australians understand their rights and access aged care services.
More information is available on the OPAN website or call 1800 700 600.
COTA For older Australians
COTA Australia is a national advocacy organisation dedicated to promoting the rights, wellbeing and inclusion of older Australians through policy, support services and public engagement.
For more information visit their website at COTA or phone 1300 COTA AU (1300 2682 28)
Compass – Guiding Action on Elder Abuse
Compass is a national Australian website dedicated to helping older people and their supporters understand, prevent, and respond to elder abuse. It offers a comprehensive range of information, resources, and tools, including safety planning, legal and financial advice, and local service referrals.
For more information visit compass.info or call 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374).
Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia offers support, advice, and education for people living with dementia, their families, and carers, helping them navigate the challenges of the condition.
More information can be found on the Dementia Australia website.
LiveUp
LiveUp is a free service that helps older Australians stay independent, healthy, and active. It provides easy-to-use advice, tips, and resources to support daily living, wellbeing, and healthy ageing.
Find out more on the LiveUp website.
Active and Healthy NSW
The Active and Healthy NSW website is a free resource designed to help older adults in New South Wales stay active, healthy, and independent. It offers a searchable directory of local and virtual exercise programs tailored for those aged 50 and over, including fall prevention and general fitness options. The site also provides practical tips on healthy eating, staying active at home, and managing health risks.
Whether you're looking for group activities or home-based exercises, Active and Healthy NSW is a great place to start.