This research project was conducted by Curtin University and commissioned by the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) to explore professional development opportunities for aged care advocates, as well as the skills, competencies and training required to work effectively in the role.

The findings of this research project indicate that advocates require a broad range of skills to work effectively in their role. Interpersonal communication skills were perceived by survey participants as critical in enabling aged care advocacy. Some of the skills originally identified in the scoping review of the literature were re-classified as values, attitudes, and personality traits.