Housing Decisions of Older Australians

This research paper and data was released on 1 December 2015, it continues the Commission's investigation of issues relating to the ageing of Australia's population, this time focusing on the housing choices made by older Australians. It considers available statistical evidence on the financial and accommodation aspects of housing decisions and draws out some of the policy issues affecting the wellbeing of older Australians and the broader community. The report examines the policies affecting the supply and cost of residential aged care and other age-specific housing, the influence of the tax and transfer system on housing decisions, and the issues in using home equity release to support living standards in retirement. In reaching its conclusions, the Commission drew on evidence from a survey of older Australians conducted on its behalf. The Commission engaged RFi Group to conduct a national survey of older Australians on the reasons for housing decisions relevant to this study. The survey was conducted online in September 2015, and involved 1500 Australians aged over 60 years. Key results from the survey are presented throughout the report. A more detailed description of survey methodology is given in appendix C.