BCH returns to Ballarat Ageing Well Expo in 2026

Connecting residents aged 55 and over with information, services and support.

The City of Ballarat looks forward to welcoming community members to the Ballarat Ageing Well Expo will be held on Tuesday 26 May, from 10am to 2pm at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre. Entry is free, and attendees are welcome to drop in at any time throughout the day.

This year’s event will feature informative talks and more than 60 stalls, including health and aged care providers, advocacy and support groups, wellbeing initiatives, aids and equipment, and practical ways to remain independent at home.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the Expo has become a popular addition to the events calendar.

“We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from last year’s Ballarat Ageing Well Expo, which has motivated us to deliver an even bigger and better event this year,” she said.

“It’s a valuable opportunity for community members to speak directly with service providers and gain a clearer understanding of the many aspects involved in ageing well. We also encourage partners, carers, friends and family members to attend, as the information is useful for anyone supporting their loved ones.”

The Ageing Well Expo serves as a one‑stop‑shop for community members seeking local support, guidance and resources.

Ballarat Age Friendly Ambassador Pam Hegarty said these events play a vital role in helping the community make informed decisions.

“This is the best expo I’ve attended in years. It gives local info to help people make informed choices,” she said.

The Healthy Ageing team from Ballarat Community Health will also attend the Expo.

“After the success of last year’s event, Ballarat Community Health is excited to again be part of the Ageing Well Expo,” Claire Shaw, Executive Manager, Aged Care at Ballarat Community Health said.

“We have a range of services and programs helping older Australians remain independent, healthy and connected through our healthy ageing programs. We encourage community to get down to the expo.”
As outlined in the City of Ballarat’s Ageing Well in Ballarat Strategy 2022-2026, more than 30 per cent of residents are aged 55 years and over and this number continues to grow.

One of the strategy’s key focus areas is ensuring residents have access to the information and services they need.

The City of Ballarat provides a year‑round program of social activities, events and initiatives for residents aged 55 and over.

City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves at Mercure Ballarat.