Overview

Australia's older generation (those aged 65 and over) continues to grow and is projected to more than double by 2057. The ageing of the population creates both pressures and opportunities for Australia's health and welfare sectors.

More reports and statistics on older people can be found under Aged care, Dementia, Life expectancy & deaths and Palliative care services.

GEN Aged Care Data

A dedicated website providing the latest data and information on aged care in Australia via a range of products and datasets. Managed by the AIHW.

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Latest findings

In 2016, over 1 in 3 older people were born overseas; the most common regions of birth were Europe and South-East Asia

In 2018–19, the average retirement age was 55 years, while the average intended retirement age was 66 years

At 30 June 2020, 1 in 6 Australians were aged 65 and over

Highlights

15%of Australians (3.7 million) were aged 65 and over in 2016; expected to grow to 22% (8.7 million) by 2056
93%of people aged 65 and over did not smoke in 2014–15
41%of people aged 65 and over reported being sufficiently active in the previous week
2 in 3older Australians did not use aged care services in 2014–15
51%of people aged 65 and over were fully vaccinated in 2014–15
76%of older Australians owned their own home in 2013–14