Housing market not fulfilling long-term needs for older Australians
Research has found current housing meets the short-term needs for over 90 per cent of older Australians, but only 70 per cent for longer-term needs.
The study ‘Older Australians and the housing aspirations gap’, explored the housing aspirations of Australians over the age of 55 to support government policy making.
It was undertaken by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) with researchers form Curtin University and Swinburne University of Technology, studying 2,400 older Australians across the country.
Other key findings included an “aspiration gap” between renters in the private and social housing sectors, where there is demand for greater diversity in housing options, particularly in regional towns.
Owning a three-bedroom separate dwelling in the middle/outer suburbs of a capital city had the highest demand.
The report showed a preference for 55-74 year-olds to live in a regional town, then move to the inner suburbs of a capital city at 75.
Dr Amity James, lead author of the study from Curtin University, said aspirations were underpinned by a desire for long-term stable housing.
“Around 80 per cent of older Australians surveyed reported a preference for home ownership, this is a cause for concern given homes ownership rates are falling fast within younger generations,” James said.
AUTHOR
Chris Dastoor
Recommended for you
While returns and fees are the top priority for older Australians when it comes to their superannuation, more than one in 10 are calling for access to tailored financial advice.
Determinations by the FSCP since the start of 2025 are almost double the number in the same period of 2024, with non-concessional contribution cap errors and incorrect advice among the issues.
Whether received via human or digital means, financial advice is reportedly leading to lower stress and more confidence, according to Vanguard.
The new financial year has got off to a strong start in adviser gains, helped by new entrants, after heavy losses sustained in June.
