The 2015 Inter-generational Report (IGR) has revealed that migration will be the key to tackling Australia’s ageing population.
In 2013-14, around 88 per cent of migrants were aged under 40 years.
In comparison, 2014 population statistics revealed that 54 per cent of the resident Australian population was aged under 40 and 54 per cent of the migrant Australian population was aged 15-29 years old.
While Australia’s population age shows the importance of a young skilled migration program, the IGR’s projection reveals Australian residents will be much older by the 2050’s.
The 2015 IGR has predicted that the number of Australians aged over 65 will double by the 2050s.
While the 2015 IGR also predicted that the average life expectancy will increase, that doesn’t necessarily mean Australians will work longer.
In 2013 the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that South Australia had one of the oldest populations in Australia.
South Australia had 279,600 people aged 65 years or over in June 2013.
SA’s youngsters under 15 years of age made up less than 18 per cent of Adelaide’s population, the lowest proportion of all capital cities.
While the ABS also revealed that the median age of South Australian residents was 39.8 years old.
This was the second highest median age of all states and territories, with Tasmania holding the ageing title with 41.2 years.
ABS statistics revealed that the Fleurieu Peninsula, one hour south of Adelaide, has become the retirement capital of South Australia.
The Fleurieu Peninsula, had the highest proportions of people aged 65 and over.
Victor Harbor had 37 per cent of people aged 65 and over, while Goolwa and Port Elliot had 35 per cent.
Without a targeted migrant program, which focuses on regional areas, Australia, and especially South Australia will continue to age.
This puts great pressure on Australia’s welfare system. Without a young, hard-working and skilled workforce, Australia’s economy will face an uphill battle.
To read the full 2015 IGR report click here.