Unicorns Podcast: Dementia Training Australia and the future of care

The Unicorns Podcast connects you to some of the best and brightest founders, CEOs, executives, business owners, innovators, entrepreneurs and inspiring leaders who make things happen and inspire others.

Host Justin Kelly – former broadcast journalist and PR veteran – chats with leaders from across Australia and internationally about business strategy, what it takes to build a successful company, how to overcome challenges and advice for those on a similar journey.

In this episode, Justin speaks with Dr Isabelle Meyer, Executive Director of Dementia Training Australia.

Dementia is one of the biggest health and social challenges of our time. Around half a million Australians are currently living with dementia, and that number is expected to double by 2050. It is a condition that affects not only those diagnosed, but also families, carers, and communities right across the country.

At the centre of Australia’s response is Dementia Training Australia, a national consortium funded by the federal government and led by the University of Wollongong. Its mission is to transform the way we understand, train for, and deliver dementia care. From free online courses to specialist programs for health professionals and carers, DTA is working to build a dementia-aware nation.

Dr Meyer brings deep experience across health, academia, and community engagement, and is leading the organisation through a period of significant reform. In this conversation, she discusses the scale of the dementia challenge, the gaps in training and support, the opportunities for innovation, and what gives her hope for the future of dementia care in Australia.