What's age got to do with it? (2021)

Key findings

Ageism is a pervasive issue affecting Australians of all ages, with 90% of survey respondents acknowledging its existence.

The research reveals important insights about how age-based stereotypes impact our society:

• Over half of the respondents believe jokes about age are more socially acceptable than jokes about race or gender.
• Two-thirds recognised that ageism affects people throughout their entire lives.
• 70% disagreed that older generations are leaving the world in a worse state.
• Fewer than 20% viewed any age group as a burden on family or society.
• Media influence was identified as a key factor in perpetuating stereotypical portrayals.

Research Approach

The research project employed a mixed-methods approach to gather comprehensive data about ageism in Australia:

• A national online survey capturing attitudes across different age groups.
• Focus groups to explore personal experiences and perceptions in greater depth.
• Analysis of stereotypes across the lifespan from younger adults to older Australians.

The deliberate focus was on attitudes about age rather than the resulting behaviours that lead to age discrimination. This approach allowed researchers to build a clear picture of ageism across the Australian lifespan and examine how traditional expectations around life milestones (such as buying a home, finding a partner, or retirement) continue to influence perceptions despite changing realities.

The report title "What's Age Got To Do With It?" emphasizes the research's key finding that in most aspects of life, age is much less relevant than we often assume.

Related content:

• Understand age discrimination and how it can affect older Australians
• Explore our interview series exploring how Australians view and experience ageing