UniSuper recently released a report, Retire with Purpose, on retirees’ extensive contributions to the Australian economy and society (UniSuper, 2026).
Collectively, retirees’ volunteering, community leadership, mentoring, and unpaid care amount to one day a week, every week, valued at $16.5 billion annually. The report stresses:
“As 2.5 million Australians move into retirement during the next decade, how we support that transition and how we harness the extraordinary potential of retirees to contribute will define the quality of life for millions of Australians and the strength of our society itself. For UniSuper, this report reinforces our commitment to supporting members beyond their retirement income, to help them build and continue\a meaningful life in their retirement. It’s a call to our sector, employers,and policymakers to rethink how we support this vital life stage.”
As a participant in the UniSuper study, WIN News interviewed me about volunteering with the Fairy Meadow Surf Life Saving Club since my retirement in 2022. I am the Club Registrar, a patrol member, and help nippers on Sunday mornings with water safety. Last season, 13-year-old Maddie and I (pictured below) rescued a swimmer caught in a rip.
Click here to listen to the video recording.
Volunteering in retirement is so rewarding; it helps you stay young and fit, build lasting friendships, and foster belonging and well-being.
If you are retired or retiring, explore volunteering options in your community.
