Arthritis & Osteoporosis TAS (AOTAS) is a member-based health charity founded in 1976 to help improve the lives of people affected by arthritis and related musculoskeletal conditions.
As a peak body for arthritis support in TAS, the organisation works to empower the individual to manage their own condition and health towards achieving their personal meaning of AOTAS’ vision Freedom from Arthritis.
The organisation is a trusted source of evidence-based and up-to-date information on arthritis and its treatment, with education programs delivered across a number of platforms, including webinars, workshops and community awareness sessions.
AOTAS delivers exercise programs tailored to the needs of people affected by arthritis, such as the popular warm water exercise classes and strength training program.
AOTAS is committed to extending its reach to rural areas of TAS so often lacking in health services compared to their city counterparts.
AOTAS engages with the community through a membership program, publications such as Arthritis Matters, eNewsletter subscriptions, social media platforms such as Facebook, and a toll-free Arthritis Infoline.
As a charitable organisation, AOTAS recognises the generosity of its donors, sponsors, members and other supporters that enable the research, development and delivery of its valuable programs.
Our mission
To make a positive difference to the lives of all Tasmanians affected by arthritis, osteoporosis, and related musculoskeletal conditions.
Our key focus areas
- Prevention of disease
- Management of conditions
- Understanding and support
- Research towards clinical, social and quality improvements
Our Values
Our values that guide us in what we do include:
• Collaborative • Sustainable • Innovative • Outcome focused
Our Strategic Plan 2021-2024
View the Strategic Plan here.
Who and how we help
Arthritis & Osteoporosis TAS is here to help, support and empower people with arthritis and related conditions. We are accessible to all people, from the newly diagnosed to those who have lived with the disease for some time.
We achieve this through the delivering of specialised education programs and health services which focus on self-management through lifestyle, nutrition and gentle exercise.
The outcomes we seek for the people we help are improved or maintained joint functionality, reduced overall pain, and an improvement in the quality of life.
Our active community includes:
- Members
- Users of our health services
- Social Media followers
- Subscribers to our eNewsletter
Our Affiliates
Arthritis & Osteoporosis TAS is an affiliate member of Arthritis Australia and works with other state affiliates in ACT, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, TAS and Northern Territory.
Our Patron
Her Excellency The Honourable Barbara Baker AC.
