Australia’s Age discrimination Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald has called for the establishment of Ageism Awareness Day, during his address to the National Press Club on Tuesday, alongside World Health Organisation campaign consultant Marlene Krasovitsky.
The issue of ageism remains under-recognised and remains an increasing issue, considering that it can contribute to elder abuse, exclude older people from the workforce and can reduce life expectancy by up to eight years.
As Australians get older, the nation faces growing challenges from the issue, with the number of people aged 65 and over expected to more than double in the next 40 years.
Experts highlight three types of ageism: internalised, benevolent, and systemic, the latter of which is particularly evident in employment and banking.
Advocates have also urged governments to address ageism and protect older Australians from issues like financial abuse.
Council of the Ageing CEO Patricia Sparrow emphasised the need to see older Australians as a valuable resource, rather than a problem.