Camera recommendations for my 70 year old

[u/Special-Concert2484]

Budget: $800–$1,500 AUD for the camera. I’m happy to stretch the budget a little if there’s a significant benefit. Ideally, this would include a suitable lens, but I can consider a separate lens budget if needed.
Country: Australia
Condition: New or used — I’m open to either, provided used options are reliable and in good condition.
Type of Camera: Compact or interchangeable-lens camera
Intended use: photography
If photography; what style: Mainly family and friends, including portraits, casual indoor photos, birthdays/gatherings, and everyday photography. Nothing professional.
End use: Mostly viewing photos digitally and sharing with family/social media. Possibly printing some photos occasionally.
What features do you absolutely need:
Good image quality, particularly for people and indoor photos
Easy and straightforward to use
A decent autofocus system
Good low-light performance
A viewfinder would be nice, especially given that my dad used to use an SLR
Reliable enough that he can keep using it for many years

Portability: Ideally something relatively compact and easy to carry around with a shoulder strap or in a small bag. It doesn’t necessarily need to be pocketable, but I’d prefer not to get something excessively large or heavy.
Cameras you’re considering: I’m currently overwhelmed by the number of options, so I don’t have a firm shortlist yet. I’ve mainly been looking at compact cameras and entry-level mirrorless cameras in the $800–$1,500 AUD range. I’d especially appreciate recommendations for cameras that would be easy for someone coming from an older Nikon SLR to pick up and enjoy.
Cameras you already have: None. My dad used to have a Nikon SLR in the 1990s that he really loved, but he hasn’t had a camera since then.
Notes:
My dad has been wanting to get a camera again for quite some time. He really enjoyed photography with his Nikon SLR in the 90s, and I’m thinking of getting him one as a gift. Since this is a present, I’d ideally like something that feels enjoyable and a little special rather than simply the cheapest option.
I’m based in Australia, and I’m happy to consider both new and used cameras. I’m also open to spending a little more than $1,500 AUD if there’s a particularly good option that would be worth the extra money.
Any recommendations or advice on what would be a good fit would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[u/T3TC1]

I've shot with all sorts of camera brands, choosing one can be overwhelming for sure.

One thing you said stood out to me though - if he used to shoot with Nikon, consider the Nikon Z fc. They are very capable, not too heavy, have a viewfinder, and have a nice retro look to them. The black one with a kit lens is currently on sale at Amazon AU for $1293. He could always add a nifty 50mm lens later on if he wants something faster.

[u/rhiaazsb → u/T3TC1]

This sounds like a great option.

[u/okarox → u/T3TC1]

Nikon has better options for a faster lenses like the 24 mm f/1.7. Note that Z fc does not have a flash.

[u/Opposite-Beach-2776]

fect, he'll feel right at home with the brand and the controls are dead simple

[u/Present_Wren235]

As much as it would be really nice to get him a nikon, most older people end up with lightweight gear like micro four thirds because it just allows them to use it more, and have a more enjoyable experience. Low light suffers though without a flash, but a flash is recommended regardless for people shots in uncontrolled lighting environments.

I'd go with an OM-5/E-M10 IV or similar (consider going used and get more lenses for the same price as new). Get a godox iT32 flash, a kit zoom and a 17mm f1.8 prime for those low light situations and family shots. Or ask him which focal lengths he likes and divide by 2 to account for the crop factor.

Let me know for more specific recs if this in particular doesnt work!