Retirement

Run by Anglicare, Goodwin Village is an accomplished retirement village in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. It enjoys a convenient location close to shops, restaurants, and public transport links, yet it resides in a setting that offers plenty of peace and quiet. Thus, it offers the best of both worlds to its residents.

The village’s accommodations range in price from around $460,000 to $2.5 million (at the time of writing). They have been recently renovated to an exceptional standard and contain a mix of low- and high-rise residences, which offer beautiful views of the city or a private courtyard garden.

Comprising studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, all of the 158 residences at Goodwin have contemporary kitchens, spacious lounge and dining areas, and upscale bathrooms. Their well-designed floorplans maximise the use of space and make it easy to live in them, as well as fit most furniture pieces you may have.

Goodwin Village was established in 1970 and is renowned for having an excellent leisure and recreational activity scene. At the hub of it is the Village Centre, which is a massive community lounge with high ceilings and exceptional views of the city’s skyline.
The centre boasts a range of facilities and amenities, including a gym, cafe, library, hairdresser and terrace lounge with barbecue facilities.

It is an excellent place to spend quality time with loved ones and friends, and there is guest accommodation available if you want them to stay overnight.

Moreover, the staff runs regular activities to ensure all residents remain entertained and engaged. There is even an on-site nurse’s clinic should residents require medical attention.

For those who want to venture out and about, a bus stop that will take you all the way into Sydney is just 240 metres from the main entrance. In addition, the Edgecliff Station is just a 500-metre walk away. The village is also just over 2 km from the Bondi Junction Shopping Centre, while the St Vincent’s Hospital is within 3 km.

This village is designed for active seniors who want to live their best retirement lives. However, residents have the peace of mind of knowing the affiliated Elizabeth Lodge Residential Care Home is just a 10-minute drive from it in Rushcutters Bay, should their needs ever change.

Address: 250 Jersey Street Woollahra, NSW, 2025
Phone: 1300 111 278
Website: https://www.anglicare.org.au/seniors/retirement-living/locations/woollahra/

Apparently, around 11% of pet owners are over the age of 65. So, it follows there is a demand for pet friendly retirement villages in Sydney.

If you find yourself in a position where you need to find a community that can accommodate you and Rover in your golden years, you’ll be pleased to know there are quite a few options available.

While their pet policy might change at any given time, the eight venues outlined below all currently welcome dogs at their facility (at least in part).

So, when looking for a place to stay, it is a good idea to kickstart your search around them.

Woodlands Retirement Village Ltd

At the Woodlands Village, you can enjoy the very best aspects of retirement living within the Hills District in the beautiful suburb of Cherrybrook.

Set on a lofted position that looks out to beautiful bushland, this fabulous property is geared up for overs 55s who want to make a savvy retirement purchase that enables them to pocket the whole value of their residence.

Residents are able to immerse themselves in a lifestyle that makes the most of their surroundings. They can walk through the communitiy’s fabulous, landscaped gardens or enjoy shopping trips at Cherrybook or nearby Pennant Hills and Castle Hill.

For times when they want to remain within it, they are able to take advantage of facilities like a heated outdoor swimming pool, play croquet on the green or indulge in barbecue meals with friends.

Talking of food, residents are able to treated to a range of culinary delights, prepared by a team of highly skilled kitchen staff, at the onsite dining room. They can also use an excellent laundry and cleaning service and make appointments with visiting hairdressers, dentist, doctors and podiatrists as required.

Address: 2 Kitchener Road, Cherrybrook NSW 2126

Phone: (02) 9481 8842

Website: https://woodlandsvillage.com.au/

Dee Why Gardens

Defined by several acres of wonderfully manicured grounds, the charming community of Dee Why Gardens is a place where residents can relax and live out their best years in a safe, friendly and inclusive environment.

Located within the beautiful Northern Beaches area, the property offers them high levels of comfort and security in a convenient location. When they move in, they have a choice of one to three-bedroom units that are well set up for independent living. All of these are comprised of attractive floorplans that are easy to live in and finished with quality furnishings.

Many of them are serviced apartments that offer a terrific balance between maintaining an independent lifestyle and drawing upon a bit of extra assistance when you need it to make life easier.

Life in the community is based on respect and care, which means that everyone is warmly welcomed. Moreover, residents are given peace of mind and do not have to be weighed down by the expectation of daily chores. For them, everything from buying groceries to preparing meals is taken care of. The housework and garden are looked after too, which means you will be able to spend more of your time on doing the things that make you happy.

Overall, it is an environment which is is supportive, socially engaging and very much focused on the resident.

Recreational amenities here include a indoor bowls, a hobby and craft room and croquet lawn. There is also a heated indoor swimming pool, library and business centre, as well as an on-shit hairdressing salon.

When they want to venture out and about, this pet-friendly community has a bus that can take you around town.

Address: 155 Fisher Road North, Dee Why NSW 2099

Phone: (02) 9971 8255

Website: https://keyton.com.au/home/our-villages/nsw/dee-why-gardens/

Camden Downs Retirement Village

For those who want to be a part of a tight-knit community where everyone looks out for each other, the Camden Downs Retirement Village is a good option.

Located within Camden South, the property resides on scenic grounds which are good for dog walking, and radiates a tranquil and relaxed semi-rural feel. That said, it retains a position close to a thriving urban area that includes the Spring Farm Shopping Centre, Camden Bowling Club, Narellan Town Centre and Camden Hospital. You can also easily visit the Macarthur Square Shopping Centre as the need arises and enjoy some peace and tranquillity at the Flinders Reserve, which is also dog-friendly.

With a council bus stop directly outside the community entrance, all these places and more are easily accessible. However, if you would prefer to venture out on foot, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes within easy walking distance.

The great thing about living at Camden Downs is that there is plenty to do. This includes activity zones where you can play games, mingle with other residents and watch films. You can also take a book out from the well-stocked library that is located onsite, when you fancy some quiet time.

It is worth noting that if you stay here, you may be obliged to pay a departure fee to leave the village. Additionally, you might also have to share any capital gains you receive with the company that runs the village. So, bear that in mind before committing yourself to live here.

Address: 31 Crookston Drive, Camden South NSW 2570

Phone: (02) 9190 6787

Website: https://www.aveo.com.au/retirement-villages/nsw/sydney/camden-downs/

Strathfield Gardens Retirement Village

The team at Strathfield Gardens pride itself on running the friendliest, pet-friendly retirement village in Sydney’s inner west.

Offering their seniors exceptional amenities and facilities, in addition to several support services and social activities, the overall level of resident and dog satisfaction is high here.

Those who live here benefit from the peace of mind of living with a safe community that is just a stone’s through from shopping centres, medical facilities and entertainment venues, which are all linked by an excellent public transport network.

They reside in apartments that come with the option of being fully serviced and inclusive of weekly linen and cleaning changes and three delicious meals a day, for those who need a little help.

Also on the village grounds is a community centre that is housed within a distinguished 1870’s Federation homestead, called ‘Fairholm’, which was one of Strathfields first homes to be built.

This venue has been impressively restored to provide residents with a fantastic community facility that incorporates a dining room, library, lounge area, arts and crafts room, activities room and hairdressing salon.

Outside, on its grounds, is a lovely BBQ area, set amongst picturesque gardens, where they can enjoy al-fresco meals with their four-legged friend.

Address: 26 Cotswold Road, Strathfield, 2135, NSW

Phone: 0404 028 520

Website: https://retirement.randw.com.au/strathfieldgardens.html

Bella Vista Haven Retirement Living

Over in the thriving suburb of the same name, Bella Vista Haven is an award-winning community that seamlessly integrates architectural design, sustainability and low-maintenance living.

Thoughtfully positioned within a location that provides easy access to the A2 Motorway and Westlink M7, residents are able to visit places like Bella Vista Farm, the Circa Retail Shopping Centre, Castle Hill Country Club, Norwest Private Hospital and a range of sporting clubs and restaurants, easily enough via their own car or public transport.

The village prides itself on being more than a simply residence. Instead, they promote it as a lifestyle choice that is characterised by the outstanding service offering and top-notch interior design, which creates an inviting and comfortable place to stay among likeminded people.

Accommodation at this upscale community takes the form of one-, two- and three- bedroom apartments that are defined by their privacy, design and comfort. Many of them provide fabulous views from private balconies of the surrounding area and feature layouts with open-plan living and kitchen areas – some of which are set up for dogs.

They also comprise high-quality materials and innovative designs that are as functional as they are liveable.

What sets this community apart from others in the region is the resort-style facilities they offer. This includes a billards table and outdoor barbecue, while the team at Bella Vista Haven also run weekly fun activities like group exercise classes and happy hours.

Address: 28 Norbrik Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2153

Phone: (02) 9190 6787

Website: https://www.aveo.com.au/retirement-villages/nsw/sydney/bella-vista-haven/

Alan Walker Village, Retirement Village, Carlingford

Run by the team at Wesley Mission, Alan Walker Village is a charming retirement community in the leafy suburb of Carlingford. It is set around landscape gardens that add a touch of class to the property and enables residents, and their furry friends to revel in the natural beauty and tranquility of the location.

The village is made up of several apartments and single-level villas that have been designed to meet the needs and preferences of their senior residents. They are all beautifully maintained and feature a suite of contemporary safety features and amenities including grab rails in the bathroom and emergency call systems.

In addition to these cosy living spaces, residents have a team of highly dedicated and empathetic staff who are available 24/7 to look after them as and when they need it. Aside from tendering to their health and personal care, they also organise a range of activities, including arts and crafts workshops, exercise classes, film night and excursions out to the wider community. These not only provide their residents with entertainment and fun but also keep them engaged and social.

Address: 1 Dalmar Place Carlingford, NSW, 2118

Phone: 02 9857 2702

Website: https://www.wesleymission.org.au/wesleyretirementliving/

The Cotswolds Retirement Village

North Turramurra is a lovely suburb of Sydney that is home to The Cotswolds Village. It offers residents a terrific blend of rural tranquillity, contemporary convenience and a congenial atmosphere, which many other providers struggle to replicate.

Seniors here live in air accommodation which features elegant interior and exterior designs. They have a discernible ‘feelgood’ factor about them that instantly feels like home.

There are various designs they can pick from, which can all be customised to fit their unique preferences and needs.

Unlike other villages, properties here take the form of two to four-bedroom homes, so they cater to individuals as well as couples and families with dogs.

In keeping with the standard of the accommodation, residents can enjoy the use of a gym, swimming pool and a welcoming community centre.

For those who don’t drive their own vehicle, there are also convenient public transport links close to

the village, to easily enable them to travel to the Sydney CBD for work or recreational activities.

Address: 28 Curagul Road, North Turramurra NSW 2074

Phone: (02) 9144 7016

Website: https://thecotswolds.com.au/

Bougainvillea Strata Titled Retirement Village

Bougainvillea – The Bay Club Resort is a Strata Titled ‘Over 55’ community that is known for its fabulous location, friendly vibe and elegant designs. It is a place where seniors can live independently with their dogs, or choose to benefit from services that offer them assistance with daily chores or personal care as required.

Each resident can choose who they want to live, whether that is more private or very social. There is no pressure on individuals to be anything other than who they are.

Situated in a lively part of Neutral Bay, residents are easily able to access all the trimmings of a well appointed town, including doctor’s surgeries, cafes, supermarkets and public transport, all within easy walking distance.

They also get to enjoy living in a community that features a heated swimming pool, gym, library, and onsite restaurant, which provides them with plenty of opportunities for recreational and socialising.

If they have their own vehicle, there are even secure places to park for each individual resident.

Address: 7/17 Waters Road, Neutral Bay NSW 2089

Phone: (02) 9953 5741

Website: https://bougainvillearetirement.com/

Did you just Google ‘retirement villages Sutherland Shire’?

Well, if you did, you are in luck!

The Sutherland Shire is a beautiful region just to the south of the Sydney CBD which is known for its gorgeous beaches and stunning national parks.

It covers an area of about 370 square kilometres and is home to a number of celebrities, such as Adam Hills, Tahyna and Cheyanne Tozzi, Mark ‘Occy’ Occhilupo and Donna Hay.

It can also be your home too, if you choose to stay in one of the many fabulous retirement villages within the area.

If you are looking for somewhere to live out your golden years, there are quite a few options to choose from. Here are eight of the best of them.

St Basils Miranda

If you are ready to embark on the next phase of your life, Basil’s Miranda Apartments is a great place to do it.

This community is well set up to meet the diverse needs of their residents, while ensuring they remain fulfilled and relaxed.

They cater to seniors at all levels and have a range of accommodation options where they can stay. This includes several different types of apartments with various outlooks and aspects, some of which have water or district views.

All of them come with modern kitchens, air conditioning, laundry, private balconies and Vital Call. Moreover, the independent Living units comprise one or two bedrooms, some of which also boast a study. If you drive, you’ll be pleased to know there is secure designated parking available.

Within the community, there are a range of amenities designed to make living there fun. These includes an outdoor barbecue entertainment area, which resides on a huge terrace, and a common indoor lounge.

For those who want to venture beyond the village, you will find very good public transport options, such as trains and buses, and several shopping centres, medical facilities, restaurants and entertainment options within easy reach.

Address: 26H Wandella Road, Miranda NSW 2228

Phone: 02 8539 7710

Website: https://stbasils.org.au/residential-care/miranda-aged-care/

St Vincent’s Care Services Heathcote

Run by St Vincent’s Care Services, this village is located in the quaint suburb of Heathcote. It prides itself on being one of the most compassionate and caring communities in the Sutherland Shire and comprises a cutting edge facility that offers their residents premium aged care services in an inclusive and friendly environment that immediately makes them feel at home.

The dedicated team here are very experienced in providing personalised support and care to residents with different needs – which they do in a manner that maintains their dignity and respect.

They also have a strong focus on holistic care and wellness, which enables them to offer a a suite of activities and opportunities to stay active and engaged. This includes everything from fitness classes to social outings.

Residents can choose from a a number of private rooms that are beautifully appointed and designed to provide maximum comfort.

Address: 15 The Avenue, Heathcote, NSW, 2233

Phone: 1300 704 468

Website: https://www.svcs.org.au/residential-aged-care/nsw/sydney/heathcote

Bupa Sutherland Retirement Village

As one of the major players on the Sutherland Shire retirement villages scene, Bupa are renowned for delivering top-notch retirement living to seniors who want to be part of a safe and welcoming community.

Having opened in 2020, the village is still relatively new. It offers one-, two- and three- bedroom apartments that are known for their light-filled and spacious floorplans. These properties are a mix of individual and shared dwellings. They all come with quaint terraces or big balconies and have been purpose built for adaptable living.

Within the community, you’ll also find a cinema, temperature-controlled swimming pool and cafe that provides wonderful views of the park, all of which have are geared up to enable you to enjoy a happy and active lifestyle.

Address: 101 Acacia Road, Sutherland, NSW, 2232

Phone: 1800 224 755

Website: https://www.bupa.com.au/retirement-villages/sutherland

Woolooware Shores Village

If you decide to stay at Woolooware Shores you will find yourself in a property where you can enjoy walks by the bay, sensational views and gorgeous sunsets.

What is great about this community is that it has everything you could reasonably need, along with plenty of things you’ll be overjoyed to have!

Notable for its spectacular waterside landscaping and comely, roaming gardens, the village offers a premium selection of accommodations that range in size from one to three bedrooms. All of them have been designed to offer an excellent standard of living arrangement that includes a range of

state-of-the-art appliances and a nifty ducted air conditioning system.

Within the community there are a good selection of services, amenities and recreational facilities. Residents can choose to hit the treadmills or bikes in the gym, enjoy a dip in the heated swimming pool, or catch up with friends over coffee at the onsite, Watercress Café.

Alternatively, you can play a game of indoor bowls, get pampered at the onsite hairdresser or beautician, or watch a movie at the in-house cinema.

For residents who do stay here, the team here provide wellbeing and care services 24/7, so they have the peace of mind of being looked after at all times, and more importantly, whenever they need it.

Address: 2 Alexander Avenue, Taren Point, NSW, 2229

Phone: 1300 111 278

Website: https://www.anglicare.org.au/seniors/seniors-living/

Ardency Aroona

Yowie Bay is a charming neighbourhood just to the south of Sydney, which is home to the fabulous Ardency Aroona Retirement Village.

Renowned for being the very definition of luxurious retirement living, this village is operated by Keyton, who have set it up to provide their residents with a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle that fuses convenience, security and comfort.

Set within a 1.3 hectares of land, this attractive village offers several resort-style facilities and amenities for their residents to enjoy. Its accommodation options include everything from charming villas to roomy apartments that cater to most preferences and needs. They feature contemporary kitchens, open-plan living spaces and deluxe bathrooms.

To compliment these residences, the community boasts several commendable on-site amenities, including a bar, restaurant and café. It also has a wellness centre, gym and indoor heated swimming pool. Additionally, the staff run a wide range of recreational and social activities that enable residents to stay connected and engaged with each other.

If you fancy venturing out and about, its wonderfully manicured gardens make the perfect place to stretch your legs.

Address: 19 Wyralla Road, Yowie Bay, NSW, 2228

Phone: 1800 550 550

Website: https://keyton.com.au/home/our-villages/nsw/ardency-aroona

Southern Cross Care Thomas Dunlea Court

Located in Kirawee, Thomas Dunlea Court is a fabulous assisted living community operated and owned by the team at Southern Cross Care.

If you are looking for a place where you can life your best life then this caring and relaxed environment is it. The team here believe that your golden years should be a time where you live your

life stress-free, which is why every aspect of the village has been set up to enable them to do so.

Thanks to the highly skilled and attentive staff, seniors here can relax, social and enjoy various activities without a care in the world. The environment is safe, secure and inclusive and always has something exciting going on.

The fully-furnished apartments here are modern and homely, providing residences with spacious accommodation they can really enjoy living in.

Onsite, you will find a range of services and facilities including a hairdresser, library, stunning gardens, and a congenial community area.

In addition, as residents are afforded 24/7 support and care on-site, they enjoy the peace of mind of being looked after by dedicated, motivated and empathetic staff.

Address: 88 – 90 Flora Street, Kirrawee, NSW, 2232

Phone: 1800 632 314

Website: https://www.sccliving.org.au/our-services/retirement-communities/find-a-community/thomas-dunlea-court

Anglicare – Donald Robinson Village

Another welcoming retirement village in Kirrawee is the Donald Robinson Village. Centrally located in the Sutherland Shire, it offers residents an independent and vibrant lifestyle that will almost make them forget they are retirees!

This community is just a few minutes walking distance to both the Sutherland shopping centre and Kirrawee South Village. it is also not far from the railway station should you want to head to the Sydney CBD or other destinations, such as the Royal National Park and Westfield Miranda.

Accommodation here is airy, light and has a fresh and contemporary feel. It takes the form of one to three bedroom apartments that are furnished with contemporary kitchens with modern appliances, big lounge and dining open plan areas and top-quality finishings.

Each residence has air conditioning, a 24-hour call system, and a generous balcony. They also come with secure parking underground, while the two and three bedroom dwellings comprise an en-suite bathroom off the main bedroom, as well as an additional bathroom.

During your days the village you can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including a well-stocked library, resident workshop, computer room and an arts and crafts room. You can also take exercise classes, walk in the stunning gardens or enjoy morning or afternoon tea in the café.

If you are a person of faith, there is a church and chaplaincy service onsite. Best of all, if your needs were to change, just a 15-minute drive away at Taren Point is the Goodhew Gardens Residential Care Home.

Address: 81 Flora Street, Kirrawee, NSW, 2232

Phone: 1300 111 278

Website: https://www.anglicare.org.au/seniors/retirement-living/locations/kirrawee/

IRT Thomas Holt Stafford Court Retirement Living

Situated within a complex of architecturally designed buildings in the leafy residential suburb of Jannali is the highly accomplished IRT Thomas Holt Stafford Court.

This impressive boutique retirement village features a vibrant community of 55 year young people who want to make the most of life in their prime.

It is set among landscaped gardens that are regularly maintained and lovingly tended to, which means residents can spend more time doing the things they love to do.

The sense of community is very strong here, and residents are encouraged to mingle with others in communal spaces and enoy the communal gardens.

The private village offers a nice selection of accommodation that is in keeping with those who are young at heart.

Address: 492-496 Box Road, Jannali, NSW, 2226

Phone: 134 478

Website: https://www.irt.org.au/retirement-villages/location/irt-thomas-holt-stafford-court/

Bayside Park Retirement

Last, but definitely not least, is the Bayside Park Retirement village. Located in the charming suburb of Blakehurst, they offer residents the kind of comfortable and relaxed lifestyle other communities can only dream of.

The accommodations here are a cut above many of the others offered in the Sutherland Shire, comprising spacious and bright apartments that come with cosy living spaces and terrific views of the landscaped gardens.

They are designed to offer safety, independence and comfort and are appointed with the most up-to-date technologies to offer residents the most convenient lifestyle possible.

The community is run by Richardson & Wrench Retirement Living, who employ talented and motivated staff who are highly adept at providing residents with the customised support they need. These staff members foster a community spirit that is warm and engaging, and is evident from the satisfaction levels the residents possess.

At Bayside Park, they appreciate that staying social and active in retirement is very important. That is why they have curated a range of activities and amenities to keep their seniors sharp and entertained. The indoor heated swimming pool is a particularly popular feature.

Address: 40 Bunyala Street, Blakehurst, NSW, 2221

Phone: 0404 028 520

Website: https://retirement.randw.com.au/villages.html

Are you looking for retirement gift ideas?

When you’ve had an employee provide your company with decades of service, its only right to buy them a present before they leave.

However, finding something suitable that conveys the level of gratitude you have towards them is easier said than done – because retirement gifts are no ordinary gifts.

They must, after all, be meaningful, as you want to celebrate the massive contribution the person made to your organisation. But beyond that, they could also represent the next phase of their life. So, you’ll want to make sure it’s useful to them moving forward as well.

If you have a long-term employee who is about to leave your company and you are struggling to find them an appropriate retirement gift, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Here are 17 options you should consider, which most departing employees should absolutely love.

Tips for choosing the perfect retirement gift

Retirement gifts can come in many different shapes and sizes. So, before we reveal our best ideas, it’s worth outlining some tips on how you can find the perfect present for your departing employee.

Rather than giving the same retirement present for each individual, the first thing you should ensure is that the gift is bespoke. Your employees want to feel that their contribution has been valued during their time with your organisation. Therefore, if you give everyone the same present (other than a monetary gift), they won’t feel special.

At all costs you should avoid cliched gifts like pens, wine glasses, mugs and plaques. They just scream of lack of thought and more than likely will be a waste of money. You should also avoid buying them a ‘gag’ gift as their only present. Retirement is a significant stage of a person’s life, so always choose something sincere over what is intended to be a joke.

Where appropriate, you should try and make your gift as personalised as possible. This could involve having their name, length of service or a monogram etched into the present, which will make it more meaningful.

Whatever you decide to buy them, make sure the gift is accompanied with a note that clearly expresses your gratitude. It helps to set a budget too right from the outset. That way, you can easily narrow down your search based on these monetary parameters.

Retirement Gift Ideas

Need inspiration for the perfect retirement gift idea? How about these options?

1. Travel Voucher

Many people dream of travelling the world when they require, so why not help them on their journey with a travel voucher?

You can purchase a travel gift card or voucher from any travel agent such as Flight Centre or online sites like WebJet, which you can load up with any monetary value you want.

These vouchers tend to be valid for a period of at least three years, so there would be plenty of time for your retiring worker to organise their trip.

2. Bucket List Experience

If you don’t think they would like a travel voucher, then why not organise for them to enjoy a bucket list experience?

These can take many forms, but should be something that most people wouldn’t normally be able to afford or think of doing.

Some experiences can include:

– Driving in a sports car around a rack track

– Helicopter ride over a famous landmark or region

– VIP Tickets to a sporting event

– VIP Tour of a sports ground

– Luxury weekend getaway

– Degustation meal at a Michelin Star or Hatted restaurant

To ensure the bucket list experience is something they would be interested in, try to find out as much as you can about what would interest the departing employee.

3. Luxury Personal Shopping Experience

This type of gift offers an exclusive and highly personalised shopping experience, which allows people to access luxury goods and items that are not widely available.

Typically this takes place in a private room away from the shop floor where you are given champagne, hors d’oeuvre and VIP Treatment.

In reality, a luxury personal shopping experience would probably be more welcomed by female employees than males. (Though there are some that are tailored to men).

That said, personal shoppers offer style guidance on items like clothes, handbags, jewellery or watches, and while there is no pressure to buy, their advice can seriously lift your fashion game.

4. Season Ticket for their favourite sports team

If your retiring employee is a sports fan, a terrific gift for them is a season ticket to their favourite

sports team.

It’s worth checking if they have one before ordering it. However, if they don’t this is a gift they are sure to love.

5. Work-Related Mementos

Your employee has dedicated a significant portion of their adult life to your company. Therefore, they will no doubt have good memories of working there.

To keep these memories alive after they have left your company, why not get them a work-related memento to remind their of their time with you.

This type of gift could include a bronzed replica of a tool they regularly used for their job, or a typography print of their main achievements or sales records.

If your company has collated enough photos of them over the years, it could even take the form of a framed memory collage they can put up on their wall at home.

6. Gourmet Food Hamper

You can’t go wrong with a luxury food hamper, and the great thing about this gift is you can make it really personalised if you know what kind of gastronomic tastes your employee has.

If you don’t, it is a good idea to introduce them to foods they might not ordinarily eat. So, really, its a win-win.

When it comes to gourmet food hampers, it’s best to offer a wide range of food items. Where possible, try to source them from local businesses. Though if you are after more upscale items such as truffles or caviar, you might have to procure them online.

7. Beer or Wines

If you know your retiring employee likes to drink beer or wine, then a great option is to buy them a selection of either.

Depending on how long they have been with your company, it’s a nice idea to buy them a bottle for each year they were employed. Try to mix up the varietals, so they can try lots of different flavours and labels.

If they are a wine lover, consider finding a vintage from the year in which they joined your organisation.

8. Spa Retreat

The lead up to their retirement can be busy old time for your employee, especially if they are trying to finish a project off or have to train their replacement to ensure they get up to speed.

For this reason, they might understandably be in need of some rest and relaxation, in the immediate period after they leave. So, what better gift than booking them in for a visit to a spa retreat?

Spa retreats offer a range of recuperative services including everything from massages to facials which are designed to provide you with total relaxation of mind, body and soul.

9. Camera

Now they are retired, your departing employee will have plenty of time on their hands. Therefore, why not encourage them to take up a new hobby by buying them a camera?

A top notch camera will enable them to capture the world around them and possible even inspire them to venture out more. It should also reduce their risk of boredom post-retirement and give them a new purpose once they have left your company.

10. Home activities Box

Another good idea to keep your employees occupied is to give them a box of activities they can do at home.

This can include a range of books, puzzles, board games, adult colouring books, magazines and yard games. If they have grandchildren, you can also include a few activities they can do with them.

Make sure you package them in a nice box or basket and top up with some little treats for them to have while they play them.

11. Luxury Robe

If your employee has been wearing your work uniform for the majority of their working life, why not give them something else they can wear once they have retired?

As they will be spending a lot more time at home, a luxury robe is the perfect thing to wear when they are enjoying a leisurely morning.

Make sure they are warm, comfortable and made of a very good quality. If they can be personalized, then all the better.

12. Monthly subscription box

As an alternative to a home activities box, a yearly subscription box is another good option.

This could take the form of TV streaming services like Netflix, Stan or Disney or other things such as magazines or book clubs.

In fact, they are available in pretty much every theme, so try to establish what your retiree will most enjoy using in the first 12 months after leaving your company.

13. Retirement Flower Box

Flowers are a popular retirement gift, especially for female employees and they are always appreciated. However, why not take this gift up a level by giving your retiring co-working a retirement

flower box.

They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes and can be adorned with an engraved plaque and can feature any type of flower or plants which can be bedded into their garden.

A nice alternative to this idea is to plant a tree in your employees name either within the grounds of your offices or in a local floral garden.

14. Garden Set

If you know your employee is a keen gardener or plants to do more gardening once they have retired, then a great present to give them is a complete garden Set.

Generally, they come with a range of garden tools that help you with all aspects of maintaining a garden. They also usually include flower and vegetable seeds packs, which will enable them to cultivate the garden they have always wanted to maintain.

15. Charitable donation

If the retiree has a passion for a local cause or volunteering you could always give a donation in their name. Doing this can provide your business with tax incentives and it also provides an excellent PR opportunity.

What is great about this gift is that it will have a meaningful impact on the person you give it to. Alternatively, you can organise for all of your employees to join the retiree for a volunteer day on their last day at work.

This will send them off on an uplifting note, while also helping them give back to the local community.

16. Barbecue

With more time on their hands, food and entertaining often come to the fore during the initial period after a person retires from their job. So, why not give your employee a helping hand by buying them a brand new barbecue and barbecue kit.

It would help if you had an understanding of how big a barbecue they could fit into their home. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask their closest work colleagues if they have an idea.

It is also a nice touch if you include some meats, vegetables and oils so they can enjoy their first cook. While cleaning materials and maybe a cook book or two wouldn’t go amiss as well.

17. Gift Card

If all else fails you can always give your departing employee a gift card.

There are plenty of different kinds available, including those for clothing stores, restaurants and entertainment venues. So, you should try to find out which type they would be most likely to use and purchase one accordingly.

If your employee is relocating, this can be particularly useful in setting up their new home. Try to find relevant companies where they can be redeemed in their new location.

Are you looking for the best nursing homes in Launceston?

Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

Like Hobart, Launnie boasts a good selection of aged care facilities that provide a wide range of services to seniors who need them.

From Norwood to Kings Meadows and Riverside to Prospect Vale, these villages offer seniors an excellent environment in which to live out their Golden Years with dignity and the peace of mind of being well looked after.

If you are currently researching which places might be the best for you to stay in, here are our recommendations of 10 of the best nursing homes Launceston has to offer.

All of these places are well-established communities, so they make excellent starting points for your research.

Regis Norwood

Set within a quiet, tree-lined area of a lovely street, Regis Norwood resides in a picturesque spot between the North Esk River and the Punchbowl Reserve.

Located close to a parade of shops, including a Post Office, coffee shop, and news agency, the community is also just a 5-minute drive to the main shopping mall at Kings Meadows.

The facility provides a wide range of services to seniors, including aged care, respite care services, a dedicated dementia care wing, and provisions for ageing in place.

Overall, Regis Norwood is a 95-bed residential home that enjoys an excellent reputation within the local town for its professionalism, comfort, and level of care.

The experienced staff here are highly knowledgeable and provide 24-hour service for our permanent residents. They are also adept at providing respite care, even at extremely short notice, and there is an excellent in-house chef who cooks delicious meals which are of an excellent standard.

The facility is run under the ethos that it is extremely important for residents to remain engaged and interested in the wonderful possibilities of life. That is why they offer each and every one of them a customised lifestyle programme that encourages not just them but also their family and friends to be involved.

Address: 8 Blenheim Street, Norwood, Tasmania, 7250

Phone: 1300 998 100

Website: https://www.regis.com.au/residence/regis-tasmania-norwood/

Calvary Riverside Views

If you choose the Calvary Riverside Views aged care home, you’ll find yourself in fabulous accommodation that has been thoughtfully designed to make living within them very easy.

Architecturally designed to maximise the stunning views of the beautiful Tamar Valley, the community presents a nice selection of single rooms, all of which come with private ensuites. So you won’t have to share them with anyone else. There are also several homely communal spaces where you can mingle with other residents while marvelling at the comely views.

Calvary prides itself on offering an exceptional range of aged care services to those who need them. These include short-term residential respite, dedicated support for those living with dementia, and other permanent aged care services.

Arguably, the best reason to join the community is that it promotes a healthy lifestyle. That is why it offers a suite of recreational and health-related activities designed to keep you fit and healthy while having a lot of fun.

Address: 58a Cormiston Rd, Riverside TAS 7250

Phone: (03) 6327 5500

Website: https://www.calvarycare.org.au/ourservices/residentialagedcare/riverside-views-tas/

OneCare – The Manor

Situated in Kings Meadow, OneCare—The Manor is renowned for providing its residents with a very high quality of accommodation and care within a friendly and vibrant community.

This contemporary home has been thoughtfully designed to offer them various care options and services, including respite care.

Within the home are airy rooms with built-in wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms. They also feature a comfortable bed and a range of furniture, including an armchair, TV, and desk, giving you the independence to live how you want.

To enable you to do this, residents are encouraged to personalise moments and photos to make their rooms feel more homely.

When not in their room, they can enjoy a wide range of social events and activities that include cooking, gardening, art classes, film screenings and games. From time to time, walking groups and fishing trips are also organised for those who are up to date.

Address: 1/7 Guy St, Kings Meadows TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6345 2100

Website: https://onecare.org.au/

Fred French Aged Care

Over in Newstead, Fred French prides itself on offering top-notch, customised aged care services for seniors who need them.

Residents can enjoy relaxing in beautiful outdoor gardens, delicious fresh meals, and a nice

range of recreational activities. They also get to stay in bright, contemporary rooms that provide them with plenty of opportunities for peaceful relaxation.

You can choose between a Standard room option, a Deluxe one, or a Premium one. Each has a beautiful courtyard or garden view, along with modern amenities such as space for bar fridges and ensuite bathrooms.

These rooms are clutter-free, warm and very secure. So, you can live happily knowing that you are living in a place that easily feels like home.

The community boasts a team of highly motivated and dedicated staff who are focused on helping residents to live independent and healthy lives. They do this through the personal care services they provide and their commitment to running a wide range of collaborative projects, including one with the local schools, as well as various social activities.

Elsewhere, there are plenty of places within the village to socialise, while services like an on-site salon will always help you look fabulous.

Address: 9 Amy Rd, Newstead TAS 7250

Phone: (03) 6345 7100

Website: https://respect.com.au/aged-care-homes/fred-french/

Tyler Village Aged Care

This village enjoys a peaceful setting within a grassy area of natural bush, yet it is just a few minutes’ drive from Prospect Vale’s residential town and associated amenities. This provides residents with the best of both worlds, which they can take advantage of as and when the mood arises.

At Tyler Village, they are committed to ensuring their residents benefit from a complete range of health and wellness-related services. This is done through a combination of specialist medical care and initiatives, including dietitians and hairdressers who come in every week.

Residents can also enjoy regular concerts, activities, and events on a monthly calendar, which are organised by a dedicated lifestyle and leisure team. Partly, this involves bus trips to various locations nearby at least twice a month. However, plenty of other events take place in the village as well.

Address: 320 Westbury Road, Prospect Vale, Tasmania, 7250

Phone: (03) 6343 2757

Website: https://respect.com.au/aged-care-homes/tyler-village/

Southern Cross Care (Tasmania) Inc. Glenara Lakes

Glenara Lakes is an accomplished facility that offers top-class accommodation and care for its elderly residents.

Nestled within beautiful landscapes, the village provides a charming setting for living a happy and enriched life.

The community offers excellent accommodations that are renowned for being bright, spacious and well-appointed. They feature contemporary designs, which are complimented by stunning gardens that add a touch of class to their overall aesthetic.

Glenara Lakes excels in offering person-centred care services to its residents. These are administered by a team of nurses, caregivers, and support staff who ensure that each resident is treated respectfully and with dignity while meeting their preferences and specific needs.

Seniors in the fabulous community enjoy a wide range of activities and amenities designed to encourage mental stimulation, social interaction, and overall well-being.

Overall, given the holistic package Glenara Lakes offer its residents, families can have the peace of mind of knowing their nearest and dearest are being given the same kind of love, care and support as they would give them.

Address: 390 Hobart Rd, Youngtown, Tasmania, 7249

Phone: (03) 6344 7911

Website: https://www.scctas.org.au/location/glenara-lakes-2/

Calvary Sandhill

Calvary Sandhill is one of the city’s more impressive care homes, set within the scenic and relaxed neighbourhood of South Launceston.

It accommodates 132 residents in a charming aged care home that conveys fabulous views of the mountains and the city from several areas within it.

The home prides itself on offering companionship and privacy. Residents can choose to stay in a shared room or a single room, depending on their preference. There are also options for couples who want to live together while benefiting from 24-hour aged care services.

These accommodation options take into account individual needs. So, if you are in need of residential respite care, permanent digs or specialised support for dementia memory, you will be well looked after.

The team here is highly skilled, knowledgeable, and extremely compassionate. They all strive to provide you with the best aged care services in Tasmania and welcome participation from your friends and family.

Address: 25 Waveney St, South Launceston TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6344 5566

Website: https://www.calvarycare.org.au/ourservices/residentialagedcare/sandhill-launceston-tas/

Peacehaven Aged Care

Peacehaven is all about community living and comfort.

This is a place where they’ve created inviting and inclusive hubs where you can mingle with like minded people in communal lounges, sitting rooms and dining areas. Residents get to be part of a village which thrives with support and mateship.

They offer a good selection of rooms ranging in status from Standard to Premium Plus. Each features a nice array of important amenities, including Wi-Fi access, private ensuites, built-in wardrobes, and large flat-screen TVs.

These rooms come with high ceilings, spacious floorplans and lovely touches such as Tasmanian oak trims. So, whichever type you choose, you can live in a space that exudes elegance, style and comfort.

The staff here have been rigorously trained to provide residents with the highest levels of care and empathy, which enables them to support their needs in the best way possible. Subsequently, they are able to offer a suite of services, including pain management and physiotherapy, along with a varied programme of social and lifestyle activities to ensure they live their best lives during their time in the village.

In addition, residents can enjoy delicious meals every day freshly cooked by a talented culinary team. They can also enjoy numerous conveniences, such as an on-site hairdresser and physiotherapists, while cosy outdoor areas with fabulous gas log fires provide a wonderful spot to see the stars.

Address: 185 Penquite Road, Norwood, Tasmania, 7250

Phone: (03) 6345 7200

Website: https://agedcareonline.com.au/residential-aged-care/facilities/peacehaven-aged-care

Uniting AgeWell Kings Meadows Community

Located in the lovely suburb of Kings Meadows, this facility is just a few minutes from the Launceston CBD.

It offers residents 67 beds, contained within rooms set up for singles, couples, and those who want to share. Some of the rooms have their own ensuite bathrooms.

As it is not too far from the local shops, cafés, and public transport, Kings Meadows offers an engaging and dynamic lifestyle program. It also has a nice communal kitchen and several lounges with fireplaces, which make terrific places to relax and catch up with other residents.

As an experienced and fully accredited aged care provider, the community is firmly focused on maintaining the values of partnership, respect, fairness, wisdom, and stewardship. It is committed to supporting all its residents, maintaining their sense of independence, choice, and well-being, and, most importantly, making them feel valued and heard.

Address: 12-22 Hobart Rd, Kings Meadows TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6341 1400

Website: https://www.unitingagewell.org/our-services/residential-care/kings-meadows-community

Nursing homes provide support and accommodation for seniors who need assistance. They offer a range of personal care services—including medication management and help with bathing—that make a real difference in the lives of those who need them.

If you are searching for nursing homes, Hobart has a decent amount to choose from throughout the city.

Located everywhere from Lindisfarne to Sandy Bay, they enable seniors and retirees to live their lives with dignity among like-minded people.

However, with so many options, it can be difficult to know where to start looking for a suitable place to reside. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

To give you a starting point for your research, here are 10 excellent options you should initially focus on.

Fairway Rise Nursing Home

Fairway Rise is a nursing home that prides itself on providing exceptional care to its residents.

Located in the scenic suburb of Lindisfarne, the facility is run by Southern Cross Care and offers an inviting and inclusive environment for all residents.

It boasts a team of compassionate, empathetic, and highly professional staff who are fully aware of the importance of offering everyone personalised care that meets their unique needs.

Their services are customized to support the emotional, social, and physical well-being of their residents. They include 24-hour nursing care, which is led by a qualified team of registered nurses who are strongly committed to making their residents feel as comfortable as possible.

The community provides seniors with comfortable bedrooms and welcoming communal areas that are elegantly furnished. It also offers them tasty and nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which are served in a large, light-filled dining area that is pleasant to dine in.

A good selection of recreational activities is also provided to encourage participation, socialisation, and general community spirit.

Address: 2 Toogood Avenue, Lindisfarne, TAS, 7015

Phone: 03 6246 7200

Website: https://www.scctas.org.au/location/fairway-rise/

Guilford Young Grove

Over in Sandy Bay, Guilford Young Grove is a residential aged care facility that offers a diverse and comprehensive range of services to those who need assistance in their retirement years.

In a welcoming and warm environment, the facility provides everything from medication and personal care assistance to nursing care and social support, all of which are provided by compassionate and highly skilled professionals.

The great thing about living here is that residents benefit from accessing specialised therapies and programs designed to promote their mental, physical, and emotional well-being.

At Guilford Young Grove, they prioritise individual care plans to make sure each resident gets the kind of bespoke support and attention they need and deserve.

One of the most prominent ways they do this is by providing a raft of recreational and social activities that enhance the quality of life of their residents.

As a result, there is a real sense of community at this facility, which not only makes residents feel a part of it but also gives families the peace of mind of understanding their loved ones are being looked out for.

Address: 13 St Canice Avenue, Sandy Bay, TAS, 7005

Phone: 03 6225 1025

Website: https://www.scctas.org.au/location/guilford-young-grove/

Derwent Views

Derwent Views is another Hobart Nursing Home in Lindisfarne.

Located not far from the stunning Derwent foreshore, the community is set within a lovely property that features plenty of flowers and plants. They give it a lovely and peaceful ambience in which to enjoy a relaxed life.

At Derwent, they offer a nice selection of room types, including standard rooms that have views of the gardens and shared ensuite facilities. Their premium rooms also have floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that offers lots of storage space and even a bar fridge.

The staff here include registered nurses who work around the clock. It also incorporates personal care assistants who specialise in hygiene care, dressing, and housekeeping services such as laundry and cleaning.

If you are a bookworm, you’ll love the well-stocked library here, and when you don’t feel like reading, there are plenty of social activities to keep you occupied.

Address: 7 Ballawinnie Road, Lindisfarne, TAS, 7015

Phone: (03) 6282 5200

Website: https://respect.com.au/aged-care-homes/derwent-views-formerly-freemasons/

St Ann’s

Originally established in the 1830s, St Ann’s is a well-established stalwart on the Hobart Nursing Home scene.

Now a very attractive housing option for seniors, the facility offers 111 beds across an impressive two-floor, contemporary building that is notable for its stunning exterior.

It is divided into three main sections, each with its own dining room and kitchenette. Within them are individual rooms, including 36 specifically designated for dementia care. All of them come with electric beds, nice furniture, and built-in wardrobes, as well as a suite of safety features, including shower guardrails.

St Ann’s draws upon a team of dedicated personal care assistants who help residents with a range of daily functions, such as hygiene, grooming, dressing, rubbish removal, and laundry. They do so with the minimum of fuss and utmost professionalism to ensure residents are able to live as comfortably as possible.

Address: 142 Davey St, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia Hobart, TAS, 7000

Phone: (03) 6216 2266

Website: https://respect.com.au/aged-care-homes/st-anns/

Rosary Gardens

New Town is a beautiful suburb where you will find the Rosary Gardens. This excellent Hobart nursing home facility is known for its expansive and colourful gardens, which all resident rooms directly overlook.

The community is centrally located within the suburb and resides on level grounds, which means it is easy for residents to walk around and find a nice bench to sit on next to the fuchsias and roses.

Accommodation here is well laid out to allow residents to move about freely without the danger of bumping into furniture. Staff are also well versed in meeting the needs of each resident, so you can rest assured you will be well looked after.

Address: 85 Creek Road, New Town, TAS, 7008

Phone: 03 6214 9700

Wesbite: https://www.scctas.org.au/

Sandown Apartments Residential Aged Care

Forming part of the Sandown Village, this fabulous aged care facility is not far from Lower Sandy Bay Beach and the local shopping centre. So, it enjoys a terrific location to call home.

Set within a tranquil environment replete with numerous green spaces, residents are housed in spacious and comfortable digs designed to make living there easy. There are also plenty of shared dining and living areas where they can mingle with other seniors throughout the day.

What differentiates Sandown Apartments from many of its competitors is the level of knowledge, skills, and professionalism displayed by its staff. Its staff perfectly tailors and delivers its care services to ensure it provides residents with all the assistance they need, 24 hours a day.

No matter what your needs are, you can live safely with the knowledge that your best interests are being taken care of.

Address: Southerwood Drive, Sandy Bay, TAS, 7005

Phone: 03 6216 7100

Website: https://www.scctas.org.au/location/sandown-apartments/

Barrington Lodge Aged Care Centre

Another accomplished nursing home provider in New Town is Barrington Lodge.

This community specialises in providing customised care for seniors in Hobart. Residents enjoy security, comfort, and a shared sense of belonging.

It offers them homely units thoughtfully designed to enable them to live as freely as possible. They are located within comely gardens and feature skylights fitted in all rooms to make them feel bright and airy.

Through its accommodation options, services, amenities, and programmes, Barrington Lodge has been designed to give its residents all the comforts of living at home but within a supportive environment.

They encourage your family and friends to be active within the community and provide you with a range of services, including respite (short-term) care, palliative care, memory support and 24-hour permanent care.

Additionally, they work hard to promote a welcoming culture and one that supports your freedom to choose what services you receive and how.

Phone: 1300 111 227

Address: 120 Swanston Street, New Town, TAS, 7008

Website: https://agedcare.salvos.org.au/residential-aged-care/barrington-lodge-aged-care-centre/

Maranatha Hostel Rosny

Run by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Maranatha Hostel in Rosny is an inclusive hostel that offers top-notch care and comfort for seniors wanting an affordable accommodation option.

Their contemporary facility is designed with a range of amenities to ensure an enjoyable stay.

Rooms are stylishly furnished and have ensuite bathrooms. There are also several communal living spaces where you can enjoy mingling with others and a wide range of social activities, including exercise classes, to keep you engaged and active.

Meal times here are also well anticipated, as the in-house chef prepares a delicious menu that caters to a range of tastes.

For those able to venture out and about, the Maranatha Hostel is within easy reach of several local

cafes and shops. There are also good public transport links if you want to go further afield.

Best of all, the hostel is run by experienced and polite staff who are available 24 hours a day to give residents the support and assistance they need to feel well-cared for, secure and safe at all times.

Phone: 0362 445980

Address: 4 Haven Court, Rosny, TAS, 7018

Queen Victoria Care

QVC is an impressive community-focused organisation that firmly puts the health and well-being of its residents at the heart of everything they do.

Another notable nursing home in the eastern shore suburb of Lindisfarne, the community offers picturesque views of the River Derwent. It also features vivid blooming gardens and an excellent selection of amenities, including a swimming pool and gym, on-site cafe, and hairdresser.

Backed by a legacy of 130 years of helping seniors live out their golden years in a dignified fashion, their service model is based on offering compassionate, respectful and individualised care that helps them maintain their independence.

Overall, the community incorporates independent living units, residential aged care, a wellness centre and several other related services.

They are also widely recognised within the industry for their use of innovative technologies that enable their staff to spend more time doing what residents need most. In other words, being looked after.

One such area where they do this is their clinical platform. It embraces new technological advances to enhance its processes for medication management.

Address: 13 Milford Street, Lindisfarne, TAS, 7015

Phone: 03 6243 3100

Website: https://qvcare.com.au/

Uniting AgeWell Queenborough Rise

Uniting AgeWell is an experienced and fully accredited aged care provider that is strongly committed to promoting the values of respect, kindness, innovation, integrity, and, perhaps more importantly, inclusion.

Set within a modern and buzzy residence in Sandy Bay, which overlooks Battery Point and the Derwent River, it is renowned for offering flexible and top-notch care in a warm and friendly environment.

One of Uniting AgeWell’s main USPs is that it recognises how different all its residents’ needs are. That is why it focuses on providing them with an outstanding level of support based on their independence, choice, and well-being.

Their staff work hard to ensure all residents feel like valued members of the community, no matter what level of support they require from them.

So, whether you require intensive support or just a little bit of extra help with everyday living, they will do all they can to help you get the most out of life.

Address: 1 Peel Street Sandy Bay, TAS, 7005

Phone: (03) 6283 4000

Website: https://www.unitingagewell.org/our-services/residential-care/queenborough-rise-community

According to the professional services firm KPMG, Australians are retiring at an average age not seen for over 50 years.

That’s due in part, apparently, to more 55+ year olds remaining in the workforce during the COVID pandemic. Indeed, one in every five members of the workforce is currently aged 55 and over and it doesn’t look like that figure is going to reduce any time soon.

Terry Rawnsley, who works as an urban economist for the company, recently revealed that the average retirement age in 2022/23 for women was 64.8 and men 66.2. Both are the highest levels recorded since 1971 and 1972 respectively.

During an appearance on ABC News Breakfast, Rawnsley even posited that many older people during the COVID-19 era were forced to put their retirement travel and lifestyle plans on hold. Subsequently, choosing to keep working in order to maintain a level of social interaction and human contact.

So what does this mean for senior Aussies?

In this article, we will take a look at this question in more detail.

Growing Labour Force

During the period of 2019 to 2021, the labour force in Australia increased to the tune of 185,000 workers. Of them, over 70% (127,000) were aged 55 or over.

However, as international migration returned and more Aussies under the age of 55 secured employment, the presence of over-55s in the labour force had dropped to 21.3% by 2023.

Back in 2003, the average age of Australian women who retired was 61.6, some 3.2 years before the women of today.

By contrast, men retired, on average, at 63.3, just under three years (2.9), earlier than at present. Interestingly the age gap between when men and women retired on average has stayed similar despite the passing of time.

One reason for this could be because the behaviours of both women and men in the labour market have become more in sync. Previously, women were able to retire early than men because they were able to access their pension at a slightly younger age.

Rawnsley went on record as saying that as men and women can access their pension when they reach their ‘preservation age’, the figures are likely to converge in the near future.

Reasons for Growth

So why is the labour force growing among the over 55s?

Here are some of the main factors driving this increase that the study found.

1. Geographic Location

KPMG’s study also revealed that where you live had a slight influence on your retirement age.

For women, Perth had the highest average age for retirement in the country at 65.5, while for men, Melbourne came out on top with 66.8.

This is compared to Brisbane, which came out lowest for both women and men, respectively, at 64.8 and 66.4 years old.

Rawnsley suggested this might be due to the labour market being tighter in Melbourne and Perth and a trend for people in Brisbane to seachange to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.

2. Semi-Retirement

The study also found a rise in semi-retirement which is seeing people reduce the number of days or hours they work.

According to Rawnsley, there was sizeable evidence that people were leaving the workforce to pursue hobbies such as playing golf or gardening, only to get bored with the excess amounts of free time they have and yearn to return to the workforce on a part-time basis.

3. Career Change

Another reason that older Australians remain in the workforce for longer is because many are consciously changing their careers later in life and, therefore, feel they have more still to achieve on a professional level.

The days of people staying in one industry, let alone a job for 30 to 40 years, are long gone. Instead, Gen X has grown up in a time where it is perfectly acceptable to have two or three completely different and unrelated careers in your working life.

As a result more older Aussies than ever want to test themselves in a professional sense, resulting in them seeking fulfilment and challenges, they might not otherwise have sought.

4. Income Generation

Remember that phrase ‘life begins at 60s’?

Well, while this was initially coined to encourage people to live frugally and focus solely on working, many Aussies are determined to live their best age now – however old they are.

People tend to go out to eat, treat themselves to new purchases and spend more money on entertainment than they arguably ever have.

Moreover, with the rising of technology fuelling the desire for ‘much have’ items like streaming services, digital devices and other lifestyle products, people having saved up as much in their super as Aussies did from even 20 years ago.

5. Rising cost of living

The cost of living is at levels never before experienced.

The average mortgage size for an owner-occupied home is $615,000 in Australia, while the median rent is $601 a week. Petrol is regularly around $2 per litre, and Tim Tams are often sold for over $4 a packet!

For many Australians, they simply feel like the cost of living is too high for them to retire just at the moment. Which is why they choose to remain in the workforce a little bit longer.

6. It is easier than ever to stay in the workforce

Depending on the job they do, many over 55s are staying in the workforce because it is easy to do so.

This is especially true for white-collar workers who use computers for their work, particularly as many companies allow you to work remotely in some capacity.

7. Later access to Superannuation

Another factor why Aussies are remaining in the workforce until a later age is that due to recent changes by the government, they can no longer access their Superannuation at the age of 55, but now have to wait until they are 60.

Official Retirement Age and Pension Access

Recently, the government made some changes to the official retirement age and pension access.

As a result, Aussies will have to wait until the age of 65 to access their superannuation if they are still working and 67 to access their pension from Centrelink.

Whilst this news was received much better than in France, when changes made by the government led to riots, there is some concern among advocates for seniors.

The trend over the last 20 years showed a 0.1 year increase in the retirement age for each year. This means that if the trend continues, many older Australians might be working until they are 70 years old.

However, while a few see this as a negative, Rawnsley points to some positives of working for a longer period of time. Principally this involves making more money for longer, which will push back the need for accessing your age pension.

It also might reduce some of the burden placed on the younger members of the work force whose taxes will otherwise have to cover the pension base of retirees.

Final Thought

Whether the retirement age actually pushes up to 70 by the year 2044 remains to be seen.

However, with the average age currently projected to be 85 years for men and 89.7 for women at that time, there is a good chance that you will have to fund between 15 and 20 years as a minimum of your retirement.

Therefore, maybe we shouldn’t be fixating on how old we will be when we retire, but rather how much money we will have at the age we finally decided to stop working.