The Challenges of Employment for Older Australians: A Closer Look at Kerry Forrest’s Journey
The Struggle to Find Work at 65
Kerry Forrest, a 65-year-old trained library technician from Burnie, Tasmania, faces the daunting task of securing stable employment. Despite her extensive experience, she has been met with persistent rejection during her three-year job search. “Every phone call or email of this type is another kick in the guts, and my confidence drops that little bit more,” she expressed.
Ms. Forrest believes that age plays a significant role in her difficulties. “I’ve never had problems in the past; what’s different? I’m 65. That’s what’s different,” she candidly stated. While she works occasionally as a casual security guard, these positions lack regularity, and she craves something more stable.
Navigating Options Before Retirement
Many individuals find themselves looking for work well into their later years. Although some rely on superannuation or home ownership, others face financial hardships without these safety nets. As for Ms. Forrest, the past few years have put immense strain on her finances, leading her to redraw her superannuation savings to cover her mortgage.
Additionally, she often depends on JobSeeker payments when her work hours fall short. The government mandates her to apply for a certain number of positions each month, a task that’s particularly challenging in her small town. “In June, I only applied for two positions—the only suitable ones available,” she shared.
The Rising Unemployment Rate Among Older Australians
Statistics reveal a pressing concern: the unemployment rate for Australians aged 55-64 has increased from 2.7% in June 2022 to 3.1% in July 2023, highlighting a troubling trend for older job seekers. Ben Farr-Wharton, professor of workforce strategy at Edith Cowan University, acknowledged this rising figure, noting that older workers often face a longer duration of unemployment—averaging 86 weeks compared to just 37 weeks for workers aged 15-54.
In the current job market, with growing cost-of-living pressures and an increased pension age, older Australians are increasingly compelled to remain in the workforce. Age Discrimination Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald pointed out that many individuals who might have considered early retirement now need to stay engaged in paid employment.
Discrimination and the Perception of Older Workers
Despite their potential, older workers often contend with stereotypes that label them as less adaptable or technologically savvy. A survey conducted by the Australian Human Rights Commission revealed that almost 25% of HR professionals now classify workers aged 51 to 55 as “older,” a significant increase from just two years ago.
Professor Farr-Wharton emphasized the need to shift these perceptions, stating, “This sense that if you’re an older worker you’re more disposable is inaccurate. Older workers can indeed adapt to new technologies and remain productive.”
The Plight of Older Women
The challenge is even more acute for older women, who often face additional barriers in the labor market. According to Associate Professor Foula Kopanidis from RMIT University, many women have interrupted career paths due to caregiving responsibilities, which results in lower superannuation savings and heightened urgency to re-enter the workforce.
Bridging the Gap: Opportunities for Older Workers
Creating more age-inclusive workplaces is vital for addressing labor shortages. Mr. Fitzgerald highlighted that 33% of jobs in Australia are currently in short supply, particularly in sectors such as aged care, childcare, and skilled trades.
He emphasized the importance of changing employer attitudes toward older workers. “We need to cultivate an environment where older workers are valued,” he remarked.
Possible Solutions and Future Directions
The increasing use of Artificial Intelligence in workplaces can further exacerbate age-related biases. However, the solution may lie in adopting policies similar to those in New Zealand, where pensioners can work without facing penalty cuts to their pensions.
Australia’s approach to employment for older individuals is evolving. As more businesses recognize the value of workplace diversity, the government is concurrently enhancing frameworks to ensure that mature-aged Australians can pursue fulfilling careers.
The Road Ahead for Kerry and Others Like Her
For individuals like Ms. Forrest, the journey to secure a stable job continues. With her recent involvement in casual work within a government department providing a boost to her confidence, she is hopeful to find the stability she seeks. She advocates for a shift in employer perspectives, urging them to consider the advantages of employing older workers, citing their reliability and wealth of experience.
As the workforce landscape evolves, it’s essential to continue the conversation about the value older Australians bring to the employment table, ensuring they are afforded the same opportunities as their younger counterparts.
For more insights and personal stories, feel free to reach out to Fiona Blackwood at blackwood.fiona@abc.net.au.
This article highlights Kerry Forrest’s ongoing challenges and the broader implications for older Australians in the workforce, emphasizing the need for change in perceptions and policies surrounding older workers.
