How is the Australian population changing?
Living longer and healthier lives
Older Australians are accounting for an increasing proportion of the total population (Figure 6.2.1).
In 2014, 15% of the population (3.5 million people) were aged 65 and over, and by 2054 this is
projected to increase to 21% (8.4 million people) (ABS 2013a).
Life expectancy for older Australians has been steadily increasing—for example, in the mid-1960s a
man aged 65 years could expect to live for an additional 12 years, whereas in 2012 he could expect
to live another 19 years. For older women, in the mid-1960s they could expect to live an additional
15 years compared with 22 years in 2012 (AIHW 2014h). This extended duration in later life will have
widespread implications for individuals, governments, and virtually all sectors of Australian life.