Australia's approach to its ageing population has evolved significantly since the early 2000s, moving from an initial framework to ongoing reforms shaped by findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and data from the Intergenerational Report. The current strategy is not a single document but a collection of interconnected policies and initiatives designed to address the challenges and opportunities presented by a longer-living, older population.
Key pillars of the national strategy
The national strategy for an ageing Australia is built on several key pillars that guide policy development across government portfolios.
Health and aged care reforms
Significant aged care reforms are underway to address shortcomings identified by the Royal Commission. The new Aged Care Act 2024, set to commence on November 1, 2025, represents a major shift toward a rights-based framework that puts older people at the centre of the system.
- Rights-based framework: The Act includes a Statement of Rights for older people receiving government-funded care, ensuring their dignity, choice, and control.
- Improved access and assessment: A new single entry point for aged care services and a fairer, culturally safe assessment process will be implemented.
- Workforce improvements: To address workforce shortages and improve care quality, the government is increasing wages for aged care workers and strengthening training standards.
- New funding model: The new Support at Home program will replace previous home care packages from November 2025, offering more flexible funding for clinical support, independence services, and assistive technology.
Financial and retirement income security
The government addresses financial security through superannuation policy, the Age Pension, and other schemes.
- Superannuation: Policies are designed to increase retirement savings, transitioning more people toward partial Age Pension reliance as superannuation becomes a primary income source.
- Age Pension: The Age Pension remains a vital safety net, with eligibility and payment rates regularly adjusted. Changes to the income and assets tests help manage budget costs and reflect economic conditions.
- Home Equity Access Scheme: This government loan scheme allows eligible older Australians to supplement their retirement income by borrowing against their real estate.
Workforce participation and skills development
To counter the economic effects of a shrinking working-age population, initiatives focus on extending working lives and supporting mature-age workers.
- Encouraging participation: Measures like increasing the Age Pension eligibility age and ensuring the pension income test supports working incentivize older Australians to remain in the workforce if they choose.
- Reskilling: Programs promote skills development and digital literacy for mature workers, recognising that improved health allows for longer careers.
- Age-friendly workplaces: Research is supporting workplaces in developing strategies to accommodate older workers and capitalize on their experience.
Social engagement and inclusion
Combating social isolation and ageism is a crucial part of the national strategy, recognising its link to health and wellbeing.
- Digital inclusion: The 'Be Connected' program and similar initiatives help older Australians improve their digital skills to stay connected with family and access online services.
- Community programs: Government funding supports volunteer visitor schemes (ACVVS), community support programs (CHSP), and other local initiatives that promote social connections.
- Combating ageism: Public initiatives highlight the contributions of older Australians and work to challenge stereotypes.
Comparison of past vs. present approach
| Aspect | Initial National Strategy for an Ageing Australia (early 2000s) | Current National Strategy for an Ageing Australia (from 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Framework | High-level, coordinated national response based on four themes (Independence, Attitude, Health, Care). | Comprehensive, ongoing reform package driven by recent Royal Commission findings and Intergenerational Reports. |
| Aged Care Focus | Emphasis on world-class care and encouraging self-provision, with some regulatory oversight. | Rights-based framework with the new Aged Care Act 2024. Puts older people's choice, control, and safety at the centre of the system. |
| Financial Policy | Superannuation policies aimed at increasing retirement income and self-provision over time. | Further refinement of superannuation and pension systems, alongside schemes like the Home Equity Access Scheme to diversify retirement income. |
| Workforce | Focussed on extending productive working life and mature-age worker employment. | Active participation and upskilling remain central, with recognition of a diversifying, part-time-oriented older workforce. |
| Social Inclusion | Promoting healthy lifestyles, positive attitudes, and community support. | Targeted programs like 'Be Connected' address digital exclusion and social isolation, specifically targeting vulnerable groups. |
Conclusion
Australia's national strategy for an ageing population is a dynamic and multifaceted response to a major demographic shift. While earlier strategies laid the groundwork by identifying key challenges and themes, the current approach is characterised by a more detailed and integrated set of reforms. With the implementation of the new Aged Care Act 2024 and ongoing investment in health, financial security, and social inclusion, the focus is firmly on promoting the rights, dignity, and independence of older Australians. The ongoing commitment to evidence-based policy, informed by reports like the Intergenerational Report, ensures that the strategy can adapt to evolving needs, fiscal pressures, and technological changes over the coming decades. This holistic approach is crucial for navigating the challenges and unlocking the opportunities of an older Australia, ensuring a more inclusive and resilient society for generations to come.
Note: For detailed information on the upcoming changes to aged care funding, consult the official My Aged Care website.
