Total population in the Division area in 2003 was 233,185, an increase of 13,355 on the 2001 census figure, with the increase being evenly spread across the three Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The population of the northern beaches area is predicted to steadily grow over the next eleven years from about 223,000 to 241,000 residents. However, that growth will be uneven across the age spectrum. The population of people aged 20-34 (where demand for maternity services is highest) is predicted to shrink, while the greatest growth will occur among those aged 40-65. The age group 85 years and over will also experience growth. As demand for health services increases with age, this will have an impact on services.
There are a total of 2716 approved aged care places in the area, including an extensive veterans’ retirement and aged care facility at Collaroy. These aged care placed are unevenly distributed relative to the area population with shortfalls in the Manly area and surplus in Warringah. As well, there has been substantial retirement village development in the Warringah/Pittwater areas, contributing to the growth in the elderly population.
The aged care (Access) program is particularly relevant to the Division due to the nature of the ageing population. The Division has established two GP Panels – one for each end of the Peninsular and the combined Panel Meetings are reflecting the differences between these two areas.
The relaxed environment of the beaches has created an outdoor youth culture. Young people in the area are generally healthy and fit. However, there is also a culture of binge drinking among young people on the Northern Beaches. The Division mental health program (Chronic Disease Management) is taking note of this and the regular mental health treatment planning groups run several sessions on drugs and alcohol. The GPs in Schools program (Consumer Focus) also regularly addresses issues of drugs and binge drinking. This program encourages young people to visit GPs for a range of health and behavioural issues.
