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Twenty-seven percent of Australians aged 50 years and older have experienced age discrimination in their workplace, according to recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Council on the Ageing Australia is an organisation that represents older Australians and defines age discrimination as ‘the inability or refusal to recognise the rights, needs, dignity continuing contributions and value of people in an older age group.’
COTA Australia Chief Executive Officer Patricia Sparrow explained the expected benefits of the recent reshuffle in the ministry cabinet.
“The introduction of an Assistant Minister for Ageing — while not a cabinet position — shows [that] the Federal Government understands the complexity and importance of focusing on the issues impacting older
Ms Sparrow also commented on concerning rates of age discrimination and how these new government changes — including the appointment of a new assistant minister — could help protect older Australians.
“Ageism is rife in Australia. It is hurting older people and stopping them from giving back, which hurts us all,” she said.
“A keen focus on addressing the systemic ageism impacting all walks of life — from government policy to workplace relations and health — is crucial as our population ages.”