More action on mature age employment needed
A new report predicts there will be a shortfall of 1.4 million workers by 2025 and further highlights the need for immediate action on the issue of mature age employment, according to National Seniors Australia (NSA).
NSA has welcomed the Workplace Futures report by the Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which provides yet more evidence that leadership is needed to plan for Australia’s future.
NSA chief executive, Michael O’Neill, said mature age employment was the key to addressing the rapidly ageing population and looming skills shortage.
“One of the smartest things we can do as a nation is create a level playing field for our mature age workers by improving employment opportunities and addressing age discrimination in the workforce,” Mr O’Neill said.
“While all Australians have the right to decide when they retire, an increasing number are choosing to continue working past traditional retirement age. Half of all people aged 55+ currently working part-time want more work.”
Mr O’Neill said with the economy now starting to turn a corner, government and businesses must focus on utilising the skills and experience of older Australians who want to work.
“The elimination of age limits, such as those applying to superannuation and workers’ compensation, should be central to any policy response- it is currently the case that the 9% employer superannuation contribution is no longer mandatory once a worker is over the age of 70.”
Over the last 12 months, NSA has driven the national debate on this issue through representations to government, business and union representatives.
