Not OK, Boomers? The repercussions of a generation on its way out

October 3, 2026 — 5:00am

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Australia’s latest annual death numbers confirm the “silver tsunami” that’s been building on our horizon for years has finally arrived. Baby Boomers, who entered the world in an optimistic postwar birth rate explosion, are heading into their 80s and starting to exit the world. Their youngest members have reached the traditional retirement age of 65.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the nation recorded 188,421 deaths last year, the highest since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to economics writer Matt Wade. This figure is expected to keep rising and close in on the number of births, led by our population of ageing Boomers.

This marks a major tipping point for our nation. One of the most significant demographic shifts in modern history, it will trigger a cascade of serious economic, health and workforce challenges for Australia to navigate in the years ahead.

But while Boomers are often stereotyped as wealthy and selfish old villains who have ruined the lives of younger generations, their true impact on the world should not be........

© Brisbane Times