Table 1 outlines the definitions of five popular contemporary theoretical frameworks, which represent recent efforts to more aptly describe, predict and accommodate the changing needs of a rapidly increasing cohort of older adults. Notably, although each framework was developed to present a more positive reflection of ageing, as opposed to negative attitudes and stereotypes about old age, each has its own weaknesses, strengths and particular focus on specific aspects of ageing. Whilst a detailed analysis of each framework is beyond the scope of this paper, the successful ageing framework has been criticised for applying the term “successful” to ageing and downplaying the role of broader societal influences and differential access to resources (Holstein & Minkler, 2003). Similarly, critics of productive ageing argue note that it excludes significant areas such as personal health and argue that the strict definition of productive activity means that some older people could be interpreted as “non-productive and therefore, of lesser value” (O'Reilly & Caro, 1994, p. 42). As the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) active ageing framework is currently the predominant global theoretical framework of ageing, this paper focuses on exploring how older Australians themselves perceive and define active ageing.