The latest Intergenerational Report reinforces the need for a long-term, whole-of-government action plan to make Australia a better place to grow older, COTA Australia says.
The report released by the Treasurer today shows Australians are expected to live longer, while also recognising the significant contribution older Australians continue to make to the economy and broader community.
Life expectancy at birth is forecast to reach almost 90 for women by 2065/66, up from about 86 years today. For men, it is forecast to rise from 82 to 86 years over the next four decades.
COTA Australia Chief Executive Officer Patricia Sparrow welcomed the report’s recognition that an ageing population brings opportunities as well as challenges and said it highlights the need to plan now for what an ageing population means across society.
“Living longer, healthier lives is something to celebrate, and it’s positive to see that reflected in the Intergenerational Report,” Ms Sparrow said.
“It’s also important to see recognition of the enormous contribution older Australians continue to make to our economy and communities.
“Older Australians are workers, volunteers, carers, consumers and active members of their communities. We need to make sure people can continue contributing in the ways they want to as they get older.
“As Australia’s workforce gets older, tackling ageism at work will become even more important. We can’t afford to sideline the skills and experience of people who want to keep working and contributing.
“Too many older Australians still face assumptions about what they can or can’t do simply because of their age, including in our workplaces and healthcare system.
“Tackling ageism isn’t just good for older Australians. Breaking down those barriers means we benefit from the skills, experience and contribution of older people today, while building a fairer society for every generation as they age.
Ms Sparrow said the Intergenerational Report also reinforces why we can’t respond to an ageing population by focusing on individual areas like aged care alone.
“We need to look at how aged care, health, housing, transport, employment and participation work together to enable people to remain independent, connected and involved in their communities as they get older,” Ms Sparrow said.
“The Intergenerational Report looks decades ahead at how Australia’s population is changing and the reality of inequity within generations, particularly in housing. We now need an equally long-term plan for how we respond.
“That’s why COTA Australia continues to call for a 10-year, whole-of-government action plan on ageing.
“If we know where our population is heading over the next 40 years, we should have a clear plan for making Australia a better place for all ages, including as we grow older. That will ultimately benefit Australians of every age.”
Media contact: Tamara Kotoyan, 0430 291 890 or Alana Mew, 0419 929 722