This book examines the concept of retirement, how it has changed, and what the future holds for the next generation of retirees.

The book analyses government data and university surveys of more than 1,000 retirees in Australia and 4,000 retirees in Sweden, as well as in-depth interviews with retirees in each country. It demonstrates that while both countries have differences in their retirement policies and practices, as well as the outcomes for retirees, the process of retirement is undergoing change in both countries as people retire at a range of ages, but often then re-enter the workforce for various reasons. The book proposes four distinctive post-retirement orientations: Stayers, Leavers, Blenders and Disengaged retirees. It then discusses how individuals, employers and governments are responding to the challenges of ‘retiring in a new age’, suggesting policies and a new social contract for retirees that addresses their needs for economic security, physical and mental health, as well as engagement with the wider community.

A book of keen interest to scholars of employment and work relations, human resource management, as well as labour economics. Policymakers and students interested in employment issues which affect economic and social equality will also find the book’s framework fit for use. A full set of interview transcripts and discussion questions are available on the Routledge webpage for download: www.routledge.com/9781041118329

Russell D. Lansbury AO FASSA is Emeritus Professor of Industrial Relations at the University of Sydney where he also served as Associate Dean of Research. Russell holds a PhD from the London School of Economics. He has been a Senior Fulbright Scholar at MIT and Harvard University. His publications include Crossing Boundaries: Work and Industrial Relations in Perspective, Routledge, 2023.

Marian Baird AO FASSA is Professor of Gender and Employment Relations at the University of Sydney where she served as Head of Department from 2016-2022. Marian holds a PhD from The University of Sydney. Her publications include: The Multigenerational Workforce: Managing Age and Gender at Work, Palgrave Macmillan, 2024 and At a Turning Point: Work, care and family policies in Australia, Sydney University Press, 2024.