Untapped older workers could add $29 billion to Australian economy

Increasing labour force participation amongst experienced older workers could boost GDP by $29 billion, writes KPMG Urban Economist Terry Rawnsley.

At a time when the economy is experiencing labour shortages, increasing labour force participation amongst experienced older workers could boost GDP by $29 billion. The opportunity to better utilise experienced older workers comes as Australia slips from 17th to 24th globally in workforce participation among 55–64-year-olds. According to OECD data, Australia's labour force participation rate was 69 percent in 2025. This is well below leading countries including Sweden (84 percent), J...

Sign in below or register now to read the full article

Authors: Terry Rawnsley

Published Date: 06 July 2026