Age discrimination costing billions

A landmark report has found the challenges of coping with the nation’s ageing time bomb could start to be defused if age discrimination in the workplace was stamped out and mature age jobseekers given a chance.

Commissioned by National Seniors Australia (NSA), the report ‘Still Putting In’ was undertaken by independent think tank, the Eidos Institute and investigated the largely unknown but vital economic and social contribution the over 55’s make to the nation and what barriers stop them from continuing to do so.

“This report clearly outlines that each year the Australian economy loses $10.8 billion by not using the skills and experience of older Australians who want to work, that is staggering,” National Seniors chief executive, Michael O’Neill said.

“If we are to work longer, it is critical the opportunities for mature age employment are there,” he said.

“It is time for government, unions and business to stand up, show leadership and tackle age discrimination head-on so a person over 50 has the same chance of getting a job as someone much younger”.

The report can be downloaded in full from http://www.nationalseniors.com.au