For decades, Australians have imagined retirement as a time to slow down, put their feet up, and enjoy the rewards of years of hard work. But a growing number of men are rewriting the script.
They’re well past the traditional retirement age of 67, yet they’re still on the job—whether it’s running a business, doing skilled trade work, or staying active in professional roles. The Sydney Morning Herald recently described them as an “army of ageless workers”, many of them still “on the tools” well into their 70s.
Far from being forced to keep working, many of these men are choosing to stay active. For them, work isn’t just about money. It’s about purpose, identity, and the simple satisfaction of contributing.
Why Keep Working?
According to the Australian institute of Health and Welfare the workforce participation rate for men aged 65yrs+ nearly doubled from 10% in 2001, to 19% in 2021.
So why are so many older Australian men delaying retirement—or skipping it altogether?
- Passion for their craft. Many find deep meaning in what they do. A carpenter may love the smell of timber and the satisfaction of creating something lasting. A teacher may still light up when inspiring a new generation.
- The social connection. Workplaces often provide camaraderie and belonging. For men who fear isolation, continuing to work is a way to stay connected.
- A sense of purpose. After decades of building careers and raising families, work remains a vital anchor—a reason to get up each morning.
- Financial security. Rising living costs, inflation, and longer life expectancy mean retirement savings don’t always stretch as far as they once did. For some, work helps bridge the gap.
What’s important to understand is that many of these men are not clinging to work because they can’t let go. They’re choosing it because it makes life richer and more rewarding.
[ ALSO READ: Why are more Australian seniors working in retirement? ]
The Challenge: Balancing Passion with Security
But here’s the catch. Even when older men choose to keep working, the physical and financial pressures of age can’t be ignored. Tradesmen may find their bodies slowing down. Professionals may worry about declining health or energy. And in some industries, age discrimination makes it harder to stay employed, no matter how skilled you are.
That’s where financial tools like a Reverse Mortgage come in. For men who want to keep working beyond 67 but don’t want to struggle, a Reverse Mortgage Australia can provide a financial cushion—freeing them to keep pursuing their passions without the stress of relying entirely on earned income.
How a Reverse Mortgage Helps Older Workers
A Reverse Mortgage is a loan available to seniors aged 60 and over that allows you to unlock equity in your home while continuing to live in it. Unlike a traditional loan, you don’t make regular repayments. Instead, the loan (plus interest) is repaid when you sell the home, move into aged care, or pass away.
For older men who won’t stop working, here’s how it can help:
- Supplement income without giving up work. You may love what you do, but you don’t want to depend on it for every dollar. A Reverse Mortgage allows you to top up your income while still enjoying the routine of work.
- Fund hobbies and passions. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of buying better tools for your shed, restoring a vintage car, or even taking your partner on that long-promised trip. A Reverse Mortgage can provide the funds without dipping into super.
- Ease physical pressure. For tradesmen in particular, there comes a point when the body simply can’t keep up. A Reverse Mortgage can reduce the need to take on back-breaking jobs just to pay bills.
- Stay independent. Instead of relying on children or family for financial support, a Reverse Mortgage gives you control—helping you maintain dignity while you keep doing what you love.
- Bridge the gap. Not every older worker has superannuation savings that last. A Reverse Mortgage can bridge the gap between the pension, part-time work, and the lifestyle you actually want.
The Human Side: More Than Just Money
It’s worth remembering that for many older men, the decision to keep working isn’t about avoiding poverty—it’s about avoiding retirement without purpose. They want to stay useful, engaged, and productive.
But passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. A Reverse Mortgage doesn’t replace the satisfaction of work, but it does provide reassurance that if hours are cut, or health slows you down, you won’t be left struggling.
Think of it as a way to take pressure off work. Instead of pushing yourself beyond your limits for financial reasons, you can work because you enjoy it. That’s the real freedom.
[ ALSO READ: Over-50 and Struggling to Find Work? Why So Many Australians Are Being Left Behind ]
Looking Ahead: Rethinking Retirement in Australia
The rise of “ageless workers” challenges how we think about retirement. The old model—stop working at 65, live off savings and the pension—no longer fits everyone. People are living longer, healthier lives, and many want to remain active well past the official retirement age.
But with rising costs of living and unpredictable markets, relying solely on wages isn’t always wise—or possible. By combining work with smart financial tools like a Reverse Mortgage, today’s seniors can create a new model of retirement: one built on both purpose and security.
Want to learn more about Reverse Mortgage? Find out more about how to use a Reverse Mortgage or download your FREE REVERSE MORTGAGE GUIDE.
Ready to Apply? You can now check your eligibility online or call Seniors First on 1300 745 745.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before you make any decision.