COTA NSW is a member of the COTA Federation, which consists of COTA Australia and all the state and territory COTAs. The COTA Federation collectively sets the vision, mission and values of the Federation of COTAs.

The COTA Federation meets bi-annually, and works on a range of projects together, including the State of the (Older) Nation report, which surveys the needs and experiences of older people around the country.

Since it was formed in 1958, COTA has been identifying the needs of older Australians and the issues affecting their welfare. It is the leading national policy development, advocacy and representative organisation for the nearly 7 million Australians over 50.

COTA Australia works closely with the state and territory COTAs to develop policy and advocate on Australia-wide issues including aged care and retirement income.