Action needed for ageing population

The Retirement Living Council (RLC) is calling on governments across Australia to enhance planning systems in response to the country’s ageing population, following the release of new Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data.

The latest figures reveal that the 75 to 79 age group is the fastest-growing demographic in Australia, prompting urgent action.

RLC Executive Director Daniel Gannon emphasised that all levels of government must prioritise the housing needs of this ageing cohort, as current planning systems present significant challenges.

“With an annual growth rate of 6.55 per cent, the 75 to 79 age group significantly outpaces the average overall growth rate of 2.46 per cent,” Mr Gannon said.

“Operators are keen to develop age-friendly communities to support our older citizens, but they face unnecessary obstacles from governments that are simultaneously calling for increased housing supply.”

He pointed out that 67 per cent of retirement village development applications take more than a year to assess, while 23 per cent take more than two years.

“This delay is alarming and unacceptable, especially when we need more housing options,” he added.

Mr Gannon stressed that bureaucratic hurdles will not create the necessary homes to meet the demands of the impending demographic shift.

“Governments must recognise the benefits of increasing the supply of age-friendly housing,” he said. “With hospitals full, ambulances delayed, and aged care facilities at capacity, the need for retirement villages is more critical than ever. These communities not only enhance quality of life but also reduce healthcare burdens.”

To address these pressing needs, the RLC recommends that governments:

• Establish minimum land allocations for retirement community developments in areas with insufficient supply.
• Offer significant zoning or development incentives to promote the construction of retirement villages, similar to those for social and affordable housing.
• Implement clear policies to boost age-friendly developments through strategic targets in regional and metropolitan plans.
• Collaborate with the industry to identify high-need locations and ageing hotspots.

Research shows that retirement village residents experience a 41 per cent increase in happiness, are 19 per cent less likely to require hospitalisation within nine months, and exhibit improved social and physical activity levels.

“By fostering these communities, we can decrease reliance on healthcare services, ultimately saving the government $945 million annually,” Mr Gannon said.

Additionally, encouraging older Australians to ‘right-size’ into retirement villages frees up housing opportunities for younger families, further alleviating pressure on the housing market.

The RLC urges swift action to ensure Australia’s planning systems are equipped to support the needs of our ageing population.

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