You’re likely to live longer than you think and run out of money doing it

What if I told you that the average Australian born today will likely live well into the 22nd century?

That’s not science fiction. That’s where the demographic data is pointing right now, and it has enormous implications for how we work, how we invest, how we retire, and how we think about money.

Most Australians are still planning their finances around a life that ends at 80 or 85. But what happens when you live to 100 – or beyond?

Suddenly, a 20-year retirement becomes a 35-year one. The superannuation balance you thought was enough… probably isn’t. And the property and wealth strategy you built in your 40s may need a serious rethink.

In this episode, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the longevity revolution and what it means for Australians.

We explore how longer lives are reshaping retirement, superannuation, and the way people think about money.

We discuss why the old age sixty-five retirement model no longer fits modern life.

We look at how longer lifespans are changing housing demand, aged care, and downsizing timelines.

We also unpack why health, social connection, and lifelong learning matter more than ever for living well longer.

Takeaways   

• Australians may need thirty-five-year retirements, not twenty-year retirements.
• Superannuation balances must stretch further as lifespans keep increasing.
• Healthier ageing depends on prevention, not just treatment after illness.
• Retirement is becoming a gradual transition instead of a hard stop.
• Physically demanding workers face the greatest pressure from delayed retirement.
• Longer lives increase demand for accessible homes and aged care housing.
• Older property owners may delay downsizing, tightening housing supply.
• Renting in old age creates greater financial stress than owning outright.
• Strong friendships reduce loneliness, mental health strain, and retirement shock.
• Lifelong learning and soft skills become more valuable in longer careers.

About Simon Kuestenmacher 

Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group. 

Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.    

He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on LinkedIn or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels. 

Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. 

About Michael Yardney 

 Michael Yardney – founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders. 

While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation. 

Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation. 

Follow Michael on LinkedIn or Instagram 

Are you interested in property investment – let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth – producing results. 

Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Property Investment & Wealth Creation Australia | The Michael Yardney Podcast. Just look for it wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here.