Longevity and Social Change in Australia

Australia, like other industrialised countries, confronts the prospect of a steadily ageing population. The expectation of life has increased spectacularly during the past century, putting Australia second only to Japan. International evidence, as well as Australian statistics, indicates that this trend will continue, with further improvements in health but with increasing levels of disability. Increased longevity will be a key determining factor in the shape of Australian society in the 21st century. It also poses a series of challenges, opportunities and policy issues for society in general and for government in particular. ""Longevity and Social Change in Australia"" covers a wide range of issues, including health, retirement incomes, aged care, family relations, employment, housing and town planning. Special attention is given to the particular structural disadvantages affecting women, Aboriginal Australians and ethnic minorities. This comprehensive new volume will be an essential reference for policy makers and for students in social policy, sociology, gerontology and public health. It constitutes a distinctive Australian contribution to international debates on the implications of an ageing world.