Research and insights
Evidence shaping the future of ageing in Australia
We deliver trusted, evidence-based research to inform policy, strengthen the aged care, retirement living and seniors housing sectors and support better outcomes for older Australians.
Our insights bring together the voices of providers, the workforce and the community – helping shape a more sustainable, responsive and future-ready approach for ageing.
By 2056, nearly 9 million Australians will be aged 65+
Table of contents
Ageing in Australia Community Expectations Report 2026
Australians want to age with dignity, independence and choice but far too often they don’t know where to start or who to trust. If we get this right, we can build a system that not only meets the needs of Australians now and into the future, but one they understand and trust.”
Tom Symondson, Chief Executive Officer
Community insight shaping the future of ageing well
Launched in April 2026, this landmark national community study captures how Australians view ageing, retirement and what it means to age well in this country.
The first report of its kind for Ageing Australia, it reflects the views of more than 1,000 Australians aged 18 and over, combining qualitative and quantitative insights conducted between July and August 2025.
For the community, the report tells a powerful story of expectations for ageing in Australia and the need for a future-ready system. These insights help inform system design that is fit-for-purpose and ready in advance of when care services are needed.
This report is also a vital resource for meaningful engagement across the sector, and forms part of our Continuum of Ageing 2050 vision and roadmap.
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What the report reveals
Australians want to age with dignity, independence and choice.
- We are a nation united in the desire for ageing well yet experiencing a perception gap in confidence
- Where people have direct experience or understanding of aged care services – satisfaction is much higher.
- A clear opportunity to build trust through better understanding, confidence and connection with the community.
Why these findings matter
This research plays an important role in shaping the future of ageing in Australia – one that brings together housing, care, health and community supports, and is trusted by older Australians today and in the years ahead.
As a biennial study, the report establishes a robust evidence base to:
- inform our policy and advocacy
- support providers to respond to community expectations
- track attitudes over time
- strengthen national dialogue on ageing well.
State of the Sector: Aged Care 2024 report
Sector performance, challenges and opportunities
Launched in October 2024, this report provided a comprehensive analysis of Australia’s aged care sector, based on direct provider feedback.
Designed for government, policymakers and sector stakeholders to inform decision-making.
What the report reveals
Key challenges and opportunities, such as:
- funding and sustainability pressures across the sector
- workforce shortages impacting delivery
- the ongoing impacts of reform and provider confidence
- growing demand from a rapidly ageing population.
Why these findings matter
- They provide a clear, evidence-based view of sector performance and sustainability.
- They inform government policy and funding decisions.
- They highlight the real-world impact of reform on providers and service delivery.
- They identify priorities to support workforce growth and sector capacity.
- The findings support a more sustainable, high-quality care and service delivery for older Australians.
*Please note this research was conducted prior to the transition to the Aged Care Act 2024.
Coming soon – State of the Sector: Aged Care 2026 Report
Get in touch
We welcome collaboration with government, industry and research partners. Please contact us or call 1300 222 721.
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