5.2 Journalists, producers and editors (a) Ageing and ageism are ‘big issues’ There was broad consensus among the journalists, presenters, editors and producers interviewed that ageing and ageism are important public policy issues with profound, wide-reaching impacts. They observed some challenges to include sustained pressure on the health and aged care systems, pressures on social security and superannuation, as well as impacts on productivity and economic growth. They considered that Australia’s growing ageing population would exacerbate these challenges and place further pressure on existing resources. A number of interviewees recognised and connected with these issues at a personal level. ‘With Australia’s ageing population and what that means for future demands on the health system and aged care, there are some really big issues that need urgent work right now.’ ‘If people are going to live longer, they need to work longer otherwise it’s self-defeating. That raises a host of other issues like more aged care, more hospital beds, and the sustainability of the pension and superannuation systems and how they work together.’ ‘We are all going to get old, so if ever there was an issue where we all literally have a conflict of interest, this is it. Plus, most of us will have to deal with parents getting older and wanting to make sure they have a comfortable and dignified retirement.’ ‘A lot of Australians mistakenly believe their superannuation balances will fully fund their retirement and there is very little understanding and awareness about retirement security. With governments pushing back the age of qualification for the pension there are some really big challenges coming and if as a country we aren’t preparing for those challenges then we are going to have a massive social and economic problem.’ ‘You don’t need to look too hard to find examples of ageism. I’ve seen countless examples in my personal life, in my own broader family and social circle.’ ‘Warehousing the elderly is bad for productivity and it also really does put a strain on the system when they can’t earn an income. It really is important from an economic perspective to keep older Australians that want to work engaged.’ 20 Shaping Perceptions: How Australian Media Reports on Ageing