Ageing and Social Policy in Australia

Industrialised countries worldwide are confronting the prospect of a steadily ageing population. This up-to-date book reflects the breadth of research into gerontology and analyses the major themes and issues in the area of ageing and social policy in both an Australian context and from an international comparative perspective. Topics discussed include unemployment, education, and housing for the aged. Added to this is the contemporary influence of multiculturalism and the challenge it poses to policies and programs that must cater for a growing diversity in the ageing population. A special focus is given to the situation of women and Aboriginal Australians and the specific structural disadvantages they face. This book is essential reading for students and policy-makers in sociology, social and public policy, gerontology, and public health.

"This book gives an excellent overview of the changing situation in Australia where the number of older people is proportionately higher than it was in the postwar years and the work scene is becoming different with technological developments and earlier retirements. The overview is not only relevant for Australian policy makers but can contribute ideas to all those countries which have been undergoing similar changes, such as the U.S.A., Canada and New Zealand." Pacific Affairs