Honorary Elders

Elizabeth is both a registered nurse and a priest in the Anglican Church of Australia. She was the inaugural Director of the Centre for Ageing and Pastoral Studies at St Mark’s National Theological Centre, Canberra 2001 to 2012. She is an Adjunct Research Professor, Public and Contextual Theology Research Centre, Charles Sturt University and Director, CAPS (Colloquium for Aging Perspectives and Spirituality) Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, CSU. She researches and teaches in issues of spirituality, wellbeing, frailty, dementia and ageing. The book: Finding meaning in the experience of dementia. (MacKinlay and Trevitt) was awarded the 2013 Australasian Journal of Ageing book prize. A companion book 2015 is titled: Facilitating spiritual reminiscence for people with dementia: A learning guide. A second edition of Elizabeth’s book: The Spiritual Dimension of Ageing 2^nd edition was published in 2017. Her latest completed research was a PaCT funded study (2019): Finding meaning in the experience of frailty. Elizabeth was instrumental in the establishment of our organisation and served on the board for a number of years.

John has four decades of experience and active involvement in aged care leadership roles ranging from chairman of the UPA Board for ten years to CEO Southern Cross Care NSW/ACT for 23 years. John has been actively involved in sector leadership as NSW President of ACS for ten years, national president of ACSA for three years and on the Board of the International Association of Housing and Services for the Ageing for six years. He has a passion for quality accommodation care and support for those in our society who are vulnerable, marginalised and disadvantaged. John has an enduring passion for pastoral and spiritual care. He has also been a member of the task group that led to the establishment of Meaningful Ageing Australia and has continued as a Board member since its formation as an association in 2013. John continues to be actively involved in aged care by mentoring leaders in the sector and regularly visiting residents in three aged care facilities. In the 1999 Queen’s Birthday Honours, John was awarded Membership of the Order of Australia for his services to the community particularly through Aged Care Australia and through social welfare, youth and church groups. John was also a key person in the establishment of our organisation.

Rev Dr Leslie Underwood has dedicated a lifelong dedication to ministry, aged care, and palliative support, profoundly shaping communities across Australia and beyond. Beginning his ministry at just 21, Les has spent over 60 years walking alongside people in times of vulnerability, transition, and meaning-making.  Les is renowned for his inclusive approach to spiritual care, pioneering diverse teams and championing models like the 'Meaningful Life' framework. He founded UnitingSA’s Clinical and Pastoral Education Centre, delivering certified training and professional supervision to pastoral practitioners. A tireless advocate for Meaningful Ageing Australia, Les has promoted its mission locally and internationally, connecting practitioners and elevating sector standards.  His work has empowered countless pastoral practitioners through certified training, supervision, and mentorship. Les’s unwavering support for Meaningful Ageing Australia—through advocacy, resource promotion, and practitioner connection—reflects his deep alignment with our mission. He continues to offer pastoral care and professional guidance in retirement, embodying the values of wisdom, humility, and service. In recognition of his extraordinary legacy, enduring influence, and embodiment of spiritual care excellence, Rev Dr Les Underwood was inducted as an Honorary Elder of Meaningful Ageing Australia in August 2025.

Viv Allanson is a distinguished CEO and a Registered Nurse with over 50 years of experience in the aged care sector. She has been instrumental in the growth and success of Maroba, where she served as CEO for 31 years. Under her leadership, Maroba has become a beacon of excellence in aged care, known for its quality care and services. Viv's advocacy for older Australians and her innovative approach to aged care have earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of Australian Medal in the Kings Birthday Honours List for her services to aged care. Her commitment to the profession and its advancement as an integral part of the health care team is evident in her advocacy and contributions to the field. Viv is a leader who strives to bring others on the journey of growth and change always sharing generously her time and experience to support all who aspire to be a “Difference Maker”.  Viv was the recipient of the 2022 Hunter Business - Presidents Award for her courageous advocacy for Older Australians. In 2023 Viv was awarded the Order of Australian Medal in the Kings Birthday Honours List for her services to Aged Care.  Viv has created a positive teaching Aged Care facility over 30 years which continues to provide exciting career opportunities for the young and more mature students and employees.  Viv is best known for her thought leadership and candid unscripted yet powerful commentary across many Media platforms on a wide range of topics.