As we approach the golden years of retirement, the question of where to settle down becomes increasingly significant. For many Australians, the ideal retirement spot is one that offers a blend of comfort, security, and opportunities for an active social life. According to new research, Victoria ticks all these boxes and more, earning the title of the ultimate retirement paradise in Australia.
The ‘Ageing Well Index’, a comprehensive study conducted by ShiftCare, a leading care organisation software, has given Victoria a perfect score of 100 on the ‘Quality of Life‘ index. This impressive accolade is based on an analysis of 22 key factors that contribute to the well-being of retirees. These factors include the accessibility and quality of aged, residential, and home care services, health and safety measures, community engagement, social opportunities, and the walkability of the environment.
Mat Cagney, CEO of ShiftCare.com, praised Victoria for its commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors. ‘Victoria has earned its place as the best state to grow old in Australia,’ he said. ‘With high home care accessibility, robust healthcare infrastructure, and a strong sense of community, Victoria stands as a beacon for ageing well.’ He highlighted the state’s walkable environment and thriving social networks as key components that allow seniors to enjoy their later years with comfort and connection.
In contrast, the study pointed out that other regions, such as Queensland, Southern Australia, and the Northern Territory, have significant room for improvement in their care systems for seniors. On the other end of the spectrum, the Northern Territory ranked as the least favourable place to retire, scoring just 50—only half of Victoria’s impressive rating.
One of the pillars of Victoria’s success in the realm of aged care is the substantial government-backed funding it receives. With over $4 billion allocated for residential aged care and more than $2 million in funding per provider for home care, Victoria is second to none in financial support for its ageing population. This funding is crucial for care providers to offer comprehensive services, improve facilities, and ensure that aged care recipients receive the high-quality attention and services they deserve.
Moreover, Victoria boasts the highest number of residential aged care providers in the country, with 294 providers and 768 aged care homes. This abundance of options means that seniors have the flexibility to choose a care facility that best suits their needs and preferences.
Healthcare is another area where Victoria excels. The state has the joint-highest general practitioner (GP) distribution, with 116 GPs per 100,000 people aged 65 and over, and the third-highest number of full-time equivalent (FTE) workers per 100 aged population (41). This ensures that retirees have access to medical care and support whenever they need it.
Safety is a paramount concern for many retirees, and Victoria offers peace of mind with the lowest crime rate of all localities at 59.19 crimes per 1,000 people. This sense of security allows seniors to live without the constant worry of harm, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a safe haven in their retirement years.
However, no place is without its challenges. Despite its many strengths, Victoria received the lowest average community rating (3.29/5) in the study, indicating that there is still room for improvement in fostering social engagement among retirees. Loneliness can be a significant issue for those in their later years, and enhancing social opportunities is an area where Victoria can continue to grow.
Victoria’s combination of quality aged care services, strong healthcare infrastructure, low crime rates, and a supportive community make it an appealing choice for retirees. While there is always room for growth, particularly in the realm of social engagement, Victoria’s overall package is hard to beat, solidifying its status as the ultimate retirement paradise in Australia.
What factors do you consider most important when choosing a place to retire? Have you considered retiring in Victoria, or do you have another dream retirement destination in mind? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Also read: Superannuation and retirement dreams: Are Australians financially ready?
