Like with many countries around the globe, the amount of Australians expecting to be retired by a certain age is higher than the amount who actually are. Australians are generally staying in the workforce longer. In fact, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the amount of people employed over the age of 65 has increased by roughly 4% in a decade. There are many possible explanations for this, but a desire for financial security is the most common. It seems there is a trend of fewer people becoming self-sufficient by the age they estimated, causing something of a transition into retirement where they take on part-time work to save extra money.
When it does come, retirement should be a reward for all the work put in beforehand. It should be a time of leisure and fresh discovery. It’s now more important than ever to make the most out of retirement. Here are just a few potential havens and great vacation spots, in Australia.
Coolangatta
This is the southernmost suburb in the city of Gold Coast. It has a shared economy with a neighboring town, Twin Heads, supported largely by a thriving fishing fleet. The average age of residents in this area is 49, which is 12 years higher than Australia’s average. The region is quite beautiful and peaceful, making it a popular location for retirees. It is one of Australia’s greenest regions and has plenty of parks and reservations to explore. As it is also a popular tourist attraction, there are plenty of activities, from affordable shows to day trips and whale watching.
If one were interested in a retirement village, there are roughly 19 to choose from. Otherwise, buying or renting a house could be an enticing idea for a retiree looking for a permanent residence here. It is one of the most expensive areas, but opting for help from Brisbane conveyancers should be able to secure you a reasonable agreement.
Port Macquarie
While not quite as popular with retirees as the last area, the Port still has a median age of 10 years above the average. This is a good area for those seeking variety, as the port’s landscape is quite diverse, ranging from beaches, to wetlands, to mountainous regions. For those looking to be more active, there is a great variety of activities and attractions. There are plenty of options for relaxing sports like golf and interesting wildlife to observe in zoos and animal hospitals. The cost of living is cheaper than the Coolangatta area, and there are also approximately 13 retirement villages in the area for those interested.
Echuca
This is a great option for those looking for a quiet retirement while still wanting to be independent. As a small town located on the Murray River, Echuca lacks the glamor of a city retirement and is far from the coastlines of other destinations mentioned here. However, its affordability and strong communal ties make up for this in the eyes of many, and these qualities make it attractive for budget retirees. It is located close to the city of Melbourne, so a trip to the city is easy to make for those who want it, although activities like eating out can often be about half the price in Echuca.
Another great plus for Echuca are the popular yearly events. There is a great variety, suitable for all ages, and like most things here they are an affordable way to have fun. While there isn’t much to choose from in the way of retirement villages, there doesn’t need to be. Housing in Echuca is cheap enough that it shouldn’t put too big of a dent in one’s retirement budget. Australia has plenty of great retirement options for all tastes and financial standings. While it may take the average citizen longer to reach the point of retirement, it can be just as rewarding as ever when the time comes.