ABSTRACT

Australia is at a critical demographic turning point as its baby boom cohort (born 1946–1965) enters later life with experiences and expectations profoundly different from previous generations. Governments and employers are aware the boomers’ retirement from paid work will have a major bearing on Australia’s economic and social wellbeing and future younger generations. Drawing on government publications and empirical evidence from current research, this chapter reviews demographic change and explores the diversity within the baby boomer cohort. We further consider the social and policy adaptations required for the labour force and intergenerational relations to adjust to a ‘new normal’ in ageing.