Seniors can get legal tips for managing financial hardship and mortgage stress, avoiding scams, and resolving neighbour disputes from Legal Aid NSW's free 2026 diary.
The much-anticipated resource is available from December 1 from the office of Blue Mountains MP, Trish Doyle, and includes useful tips and practical information about a range of issues that can be commonly faced by seniors including scams, disputes with neighbours, elder abuse and retirement villages and aged care.
The diary also includes important information on family and separation, driving and fines, help after a disaster, and money and Centrelink. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older people can also find information about culturally safe care.
The always popular diary is available from the Member’s office at 5 Raymond Road in Springwood.
Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle said:
“I encourage seniors to come to my electorate office to pick up their free diary to and stay informed about their legal rights,” Ms Doyle said.
“It’s a fantastic diary. A really practical resource. Many people find they still love the tactile nature of a physical diary instead of an online diary and this gives seniors all this essential information as well.”
“There’s a stack of them in my office, but they do go quickly, so come and grab yourself one. You can also order one through the Legal Aid website,” Ms Doyle added.
Recent retiree Ted Dunger, 69, of Valley Heights, is just one local who looks forward to picking up his free seniors diary.
“It’s got lots of good stuff in it,” the former train guard said.
“Retirement can be a bit of a maze to go through. This diary has all sorts of info, like the information on organising your will, for example, is very useful.”
There are a limited number of diaries available on a first come, first served basis, with one available per senior. The MP’s office is open Monday to Friday.
This year’s cover artwork features artwork by Wiradjuri artist Shelby-Rae Lyons, who tells the powerful story of Elders passing on knowledge to the next generation in an artwork titled ‘Echoes of Our Elders’.
Legal Aid NSW CEO Monique Hitter said:
“The Legal topics for seniors diary aims to make legal issues more understandable and easier to navigate. It is a very practical resource and something that seniors can refer to every day.
“We are proud to produce such a popular resource [and] have been able to produce more copies this year following a funding announcement from the Department of Communities and Justice.”
Law Society of NSW 2026 president – Ronan MacSweeney said:
“On behalf of the solicitors of NSW, the Law Society is honoured to continue its longstanding support for the diary. It provides important information on a range of topics of interest and concern to seniors, presented in a way that’s easy to read and understand.”
Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:
“The diary is essential reading for older people in NSW seeking practical information to navigate legal challenges, financial stress and scams. Seniors across NSW eagerly await this diary every year and I encourage people to make the most of this free resource.”
NSW Attorney General Michael Daley said:
"The Government is pleased to support Legal Aid NSW which delivers this valuable, practical resource each year. It's vital that seniors are aware of their legal rights and where they can go to for free support and assistance."
Diaries are also available from public libraries and local Legal Aid NSW offices. Those who miss out can also order online via the Legal Aid NSW website’s publications and resources page.
