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Dementia Action Week will be held from Monday, September 21 to Sunday, September 27, encouraging Australians to start conversations, challenge misconceptions and help create more supportive communities for people living with dementia.

Led by Dementia Australia, the national awareness campaign aims to improve understanding of dementia, reduce stigma and ensure people living with the condition, along with their families and carers, feel recognised and supported.

The campaign comes as new figures highlight the growing impact of dementia across the country.

Dementia remains the leading cause of death in Australia and, without significant intervention, the number of Australians living with the condition is expected to reach almost 1.1 million by 2066.

An estimated 446,500 Australians are currently living with dementia, while more than 1.7 million people are involved in their care.

Dementia was also the second leading cause of disease burden in Australia in 2024. Disease burden measures both the number of people affected by a condition and its overall impact on their lives. In 2011, dementia ranked fifth, demonstrating how significantly its effect on the community has grown.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said the latest figures reinforced the urgent need for greater investment in dementia-specific care, support and prevention.

“The report highlights the clear and growing impact of dementia as a chronic disease. There is no time to lose when it comes to investing in dementia services, supports and prevention,” Professor Buchanan said.

She said dementia remained a major public health issue but did not receive the recognition or funding required to meet the increasing demand for services.

Professor Buchanan has also called for funding to implement the National Dementia Action Plan, along with a national brain health campaign and additional support for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

A central message of Dementia Action Week is that dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Greater awareness can encourage people to seek an early diagnosis, connect with appropriate services and feel more confident discussing their concerns.

Individuals, schools, workplaces, businesses, councils and community organisations can support the campaign by hosting information sessions, sharing reliable resources, volunteering or introducing dementia-friendly practices.

Communities can also consider whether public spaces, services and activities are welcoming and accessible to people living with dementia.

Small actions can make a meaningful difference. Starting a conversation, listening without judgement and learning more about dementia can help reduce fear, stigma and social isolation.

Dementia Australia provides free resources and practical information to help people and organisations participate in Dementia Action Week.

For confidential information, advice and support, contact the National Dementia Helpline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au.