University Of The Third Age Brisbane

University Of The Third Age Brisbane is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing lifelong learning opportunities for people in their active retirement years. Established in 1986, it offers a welcoming community where older adults can engage in intellectually stimulating and socially enriching activities without academic pressure, exams, or awards. The organisation supports seniors in maintaining mental agility, physical wellbeing, and social connections, which are crucial for sustaining independence and quality of life as they age.

Mission and Vision

The mission of University Of The Third Age Brisbane is to promote learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing among older adults, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and friendship. Its vision is to empower the retired and semi-retired community to remain active, engaged, and connected through accessible educational and leisure activities, thereby contributing positively to society by reducing health system burdens.

Main Objectives

• Provide a wide range of low-cost educational courses and leisure activities tailored to the interests and needs of older adults.
• Create a supportive environment that encourages social interaction and combats isolation among seniors.
• Encourage lifelong learning to help maintain mental stimulation and personal growth.
• Operate as a fully volunteer-managed organisation to maximise community involvement and sustainability.

Benefiting Groups

The primary beneficiaries are older Australians in active retirement, including those over 50 who seek meaningful engagement beyond their working and home-making years. This includes individuals who are highly educated, widely travelled, or simply eager to explore new interests and maintain social networks.

Services and Activities

• Over 200 diverse educational courses each term, covering topics such as arts, technology, health, history, and languages.
• In-person classes held at multiple locations across Brisbane, including the City Campus and suburban districts like Logan and Wynnum.
• Online classes to increase accessibility for members unable to attend in person.
• Special presentations, workshops, and social events designed to enrich members’ experiences and foster community spirit.