John,

When I look at older Australians, I see the generation that built this nation.

They have shown aspiration at its most fundamental – aspiration not just for themselves, but for a better life for their children.

Societies are judged on how they treat their vulnerable. But if we were judged on how we treat our older Australians, the truth is we're failing. Badly.

We know the statistics.

200,000 older Australians can't see a dentist because it's too expensive. The fastest growing group of homeless Australians are women aged 65 to 74. Half of those in aged care are malnourished. More than 100,000 people are waiting for the home care packages they deserve – and in two years, 30,000 died waiting for that care.

These aren't just statistics. These are our parents and grandparents. These are Australians.

And in a country like Australia, how is any of this good enough?

It's not. We can – and we must – do better. And today I outlined Labor's vision how.

Because our later years should be good years. And the generation that built this nation should never become the generation that is forgotten by this nation.

You can watch my full vision statement from Brisbane here.

Albo