Will You Have to Work Into Your 70s? What Property Professionals in South Australia Need to Know

It’s a question that’s starting to weigh heavily on the minds of many Australian workers, particularly the younger generations: Will I need to work until I'm 70—or even later? 

According to a new survey released by our partners people2people recruitment, for many, the answer is a likely “yes.”

This research paints a sobering picture of the expectations younger Australians have about their working futures. In particular, 50% of Gen Z respondents said they expect to work until they are at least 70. A staggering 38% said they anticipate working into their mid-70s or beyond. 

Among Millennials, nearly as many share the same sentiment. The belief that retirement is simply out of reach is becoming mainstream, driven by economic pressures, changing retirement expectations, and job market uncertainty.

So what does this mean for South Australians pursuing or building a career in the property industry?

Let’s take a closer look at the data, the driving forces behind these expectations, and what it means for jobseekers, especially in one of South Australia's most essential and evolving sectors.

Why Are Australians Expecting to Work Longer?

There are several key factors contributing to these shifting retirement expectations:

1. Cost of Living and Financial Pressures: As the cost of living continues to rise, particularly in housing, energy, and healthcare, more Australians are finding it difficult to save enough to retire comfortably. Superannuation balances, especially for those under 40, are often not sufficient to support the traditional retirement age of 65.
   
   
2. Changes to Pension and Superannuation Access: Access to the Age Pension in Australia is gradually increasing, and future changes to the superannuation system could delay when people can retire. Many fear they will not have enough saved and therefore plan to keep working.
   
   
3. Longer Life Expectancy: Australians are living longer, which is good news—but it also means their retirement savings need to last longer. This reality is prompting many to consider how they can remain employable and financially secure for decades after 65.
   
   
4. Changing Attitudes to Work: Interestingly, many people also want to remain in the workforce—either for social engagement, purpose, or flexibility that wasn’t available in the past. Remote work and more adaptable work arrangements may allow for longer careers on one's own terms.

What the Survey Tells Us About the Property Industry's Workforce

The people2people survey highlights broader workforce trends that can be directly applied to the property and real estate sector in South Australia.

The survey, conducted in April 2025, included over 1,000 workers and jobseekers across the country. Only 7% of Gen Z and 8% of Millennials said they believe they will ever retire completely. This contrasts sharply with older generations: 21% of Gen X and Baby Boomers said they see retirement as achievable.

This generational divide is important for employers and candidates in the South Australian property industry to understand. As an industry that values long-term relationships, local knowledge, and client trust, property often provides excellent opportunities for longevity. However, it’s also an industry that is seeing significant transformation: from technology disruption in real estate, to regulatory changes, to shifting demand in regional versus metropolitan areas.

The South Australian Context

South Australia's economy has remained relatively stable, and the property industry is no exception. While housing affordability challenges persist, there is ongoing activity in both residential and commercial markets. Large-scale development projects, regional growth, and infrastructure investment are creating opportunities for professionals at all stages of their careers.

According to recent ABS data, the national unemployment rate in April 2025 sat at 4.1%. But despite the addition of nearly 89,000 new jobs, the participation rate rose even faster—to 67.1%—indicating that more people are entering or re-entering the workforce. This is a critical sign that, even as jobs are added, competition remains strong, especially for older professionals who may not have the same digital or technical fluency as younger workers.

Moreover, the same survey revealed a troubling belief about the prospects of older workers: 90% of respondents said employers rarely or never hire people near or past retirement age. A full third said people over 65 have no chance at all of finding new employment. For property professionals thinking about their future, this statistic is particularly concerning.

Opportunities and Challenges for Property Professionals

While these findings may feel disheartening, there are reasons for optimism—especially within South Australia’s property landscape.

Opportunities

• High Demand for Experience: Many agencies and developers in South Australia value experience, maturity, and long-term client relationships—assets more often found in older professionals.
  
  
• Lifelong Learning and Upskilling: With property tech, AI in listings and valuations, and data-driven marketing growing in prominence, there’s an opportunity to stand out by mastering new tools, no matter your age.
  
  
• Flexible Work Models: The rise of hybrid and remote work means more roles—such as property administration, leasing support, and conveyancing—can be done flexibly, even into later life stages.

Challenges

• Age Discrimination: Despite the value older professionals bring, unconscious bias and hiring practices may exclude them.
  
  
• Rapid Digital Change: Staying relevant requires continuous professional development, particularly in digital literacy, CRM tools, and marketing platforms.
  
  
• Physical Demands in Some Roles: For those in field-heavy roles like property management or on-site development, physical stamina may become a limiting factor over time.

What Can You Do Now to Future-Proof Your Career?

If you're working in—or entering—the property sector in South Australia, here are a few ways to prepare for a potentially longer working life:

1. Invest in Training: Stay ahead by upskilling in areas like property technology (PropTech), AI applications, and compliance. Consider courses in digital marketing, sales analytics, or sustainability in housing—skills that will be in demand well into the future.
   
   
2. Embrace Adaptability: Be open to new work arrangements. Whether it’s part-time consulting, mentoring younger staff, or moving into client relations or education, there are many ways to stay active in the industry.
   
   
3. Challenge Age Bias: Don’t accept ageist assumptions. Advocate for inclusive hiring and highlight your value in terms of experience, stability, and relationship management.
   
   
4. Plan Financially: Consult with a financial advisor about retirement goals, superannuation strategies, and property investments that can support you in the long term.
   
   
5. Use Recruitment Support: Engage with recruitment partners who understand the local market—like us. We work closely with agencies and employers who value talent of all ages and can help match you to roles where your skills and experience are appreciated.

The notion of working into your 70s may feel daunting—but in today’s economic and employment climate, it’s a reality many professionals, including those in property, need to prepare for.

The key takeaway? It’s less about how long you’ll work and more about how you’ll work smart. By staying current, embracing new tools and approaches, and advocating for yourself, you can not only extend your career but find greater fulfillment in the process.

If you're seeking your next role or planning your career future in the South Australian property industry, Edge Recruitment is here to help you navigate it—at every stage of your journey.