THE federal government has released the Centre for Population’s 2023 population statement, underlining the ageing, housing and care-related challenges on the horizon.

There are currently two million people over the age of 75 around the country, but by 2040, this cohort will increase to 3.4 million, with an additional 1.4 million people over 75 within the next two decades.

According to the Property Council of Australia these changes will have many implications, including increased demand for healthcare, social services and aged care services and age-friendly infrastructure and appropriate housing options.

They said retirement villages across the country save the commonwealth government a billion dollars every year by delaying entry into aged care facilities through better designed homes that lead to fewer trips, falls and interactions with healthcare systems. And when Australians ‘rightsize’, their homes re-enter the market, benefiting singles, couples and growing families, helping to close the supply gap.

“Beyond just the housing benefits, residents of retirement communities are 41 per cent happier, 15 per cent more physically active, and experience reduced levels of loneliness and depression,” they said.

More information is available at www.propertycouncil.com.au