Dementia Australia and the Australian Masters Games unite to promote brain health
Dementia Australia is proud to be the charity of choice for the 20th edition of the Australian Masters Games, taking place in Canberra from 18–25 October 2025.
This partnership brings together two organisations committed to promoting physical activity, social connection and community wellbeing – all factors that support brain health and can reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said the partnership is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness about brain health and inspire action.
“We know that regular physical activity, social engagement and community participation – all central to the Australian Masters Games – play a critical role in supporting brain health,” Professor Buchanan said.
“Scientific research shows that addressing 14 modifiable risk factors, including physical inactivity and social isolation, could prevent or delay up to 45% of dementia cases.
“This partnership is about celebrating what’s possible – empowering people of all ages to take steps that support their brain health and wellbeing. It’s never too early or too late to start taking steps to reduce your risk of developing dementia.”
Adam Drinkwell, General Manager of the Australian Masters Games, said the partnership with Dementia Australia brings together two organisations with a shared purpose.
“We’re proud to partner with Dementia Australia to highlight how sport keeps both body and mind healthy. We hope to see all participants get behind our charity partner and donate to such a worthy cause.”
In 2025, an estimated 433,300 Australians are living with dementia, including 29,000 with younger onset dementia. Without significant intervention, these numbers are projected to rise dramatically over the coming decades.
Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Anthony ‘The Wall’ Pollock, who recently represented Australia in Sweden at the 2025 Walking Football World Cup, lives with younger onset dementia and will compete in the Games. He is helping raise awareness and funds through his sporting community.
“You can have a good life with dementia if you put the effort in and have the support,” Mr Pollock said.
“I plan to utilise what I'm doing to spread the word through the walking football community. If my story helps inspire even one person to take action, then it’s worth it.”
The Australian Masters Games is a week-long festival of sport and social events, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to stay active, connected and involved. With more than 50 sports on offer, the Games are a celebration of lifelong participation and community wellbeing.
Funds raised through the partnership will directly support people living with dementia, their families and carers through Dementia Australia’s information, education and support services.
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.7 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
Media contacts: Teresa Cong, Senior Media & Communications Advisor, 0423 383 564, Teresa.Cong@Dementia.org.au
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors:
We request, where possible, details for the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 appear alongside news stories about dementia, as these stories often prompt questions or concerns:
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.