A groundbreaking survey by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has uncovered alarming levels of age discrimination in Australian workplaces, with employers showing significant bias against older job seekers.
The Harsh Reality of Age Bias
The comprehensive study reveals that 58% of employers admit to considering age when making hiring decisions, despite anti-discrimination laws. Shockingly, 30% of surveyed businesses openly acknowledged preferring younger candidates for certain roles.
Key Findings:
- Over half of employers (53%) believe younger workers adapt better to technological changes
- 42% of businesses associate older employees with higher absenteeism (despite evidence to the contrary)
- Only 18% of companies have specific strategies to recruit workers over 50
Economic Impact and Missed Opportunities
The report highlights how this discrimination creates a dangerous paradox in Australia's tight labour market. While businesses complain about skills shortages, they simultaneously exclude experienced professionals based solely on age.
"We're seeing employers shoot themselves in the foot," said AHRC Commissioner Lorraine Finlay. "They're overlooking highly qualified candidates who could immediately add value, all because of outdated stereotypes."
Government Response and Industry Reactions
The federal government has pledged to address these findings through a new awareness campaign and potential policy reforms. Meanwhile, industry groups are calling for better education about the benefits of age-diverse workforces.
The bottom line: Australia's workforce crisis won't be solved until businesses confront their unconscious biases and recognise experience as an asset rather than a liability.
