Denmark just raised the retirement age to 70. Should Australia take notes?

Denmark is set to have the highest retirement age among Western nations – 70 by 2040.  

It’s a clear-eyed response to rising life expectancy and budget pressures, linking pension eligibility to how long people are living. The move is gradual, starting with a rise to 68 by 2030, but the goal is long-term sustainability, not short-term popularity. 

Denmark’s model isn’t just about plugging budget holes. It’s a broader rethinking of what work, ageing, and retirement mean in the 21st century. Many Danes continue working past pension age voluntarily. The government’s argument: if people are living longer, healthier lives, why shouldn’t the retirement system reflect that? 

Of course, not everyone is on board. Critics, especially those in manual trades, argue they’re being forced to work longer while their bodies are wearing down. It’s a fair point—and one that any country would need to grapple with if making similar changes. 

But the policy’s intent is clear: a system based on 1950s life expectancies won’t support a 21st-century ageing population. Denmark is facing that reality head-on. 

More broadly, Denmark stands out for its integrated health and early intervention strategy that creates a home care program that averages just two hours per week and halves the percentage of people in residential care compared to Australia. 

Australia hasn’t had the same public debate, despite facing similar challenges. This is one of these moments when looking abroad can provide us with an opportunity to glimpse into the future of public conversation and debate. A conversation that will come our way, sooner rather than later.