Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'

​

What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

 

[JayEeGeeP]

How about the poor tradies, can't see them working to that age. Maybe politicians and public servants making these rules could do a swap of careers so they understand.

 

[chrissy dame]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

View attachment 25561

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'



What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

Anyone that is not employed as in the administrative struggle with having to work till 67. My partner and I are commercial cleaners and are in are early 60 and are both struggling physically and mentally as both of us and not much finanan E behind us to leave .who is going to employ us??

 

[chrissy dame]

I agree! My partner and I work as commercial cleaners and both of us are struggling now physically and mentally we are both in our early sixties what else can we do for employment? Who would employ us

 

[chrissy dame]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

View attachment 25561

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'



What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

 

[chrissy dame]

In Gary's situation how much increase in road deaths/accidents suicides etc has there been say in the last 10 years ? No wonder we are losing these valuable workers

 

[ToniaKisliakov]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

View attachment 25561

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'



What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

 

[ToniaKisliakov]

Dementia sets in earlier if retired and doing nothing

 

[Iggydi]

I think that if you have worked in certain sectors like Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Nursing, Armed Forces, Prison and building industry and some of the associated trades you should be able to choose when you retire from that sector. A person that sits behind a desk can work until their retirement age and even longer. There needs to be help and training for people wanting to change their jobs after they can't do their current job any longer and it really doesn't matter the reason.

 

[Richard12]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

View attachment 25561

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'



What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

Hi there, I am one of those paramedics that was thrown on the scrap heap after a major car accident where a semi trailer cut us off at an intersection while we were on lights and sirens. I won't bore you with details but I have a metal hip left over from that. Yes, I have been assaulted or threatened with assault many times and of course seen it all in 30 years. After the accident and operations, when all was finally stable I got a letter from the service stating my medical discharge. No thanks or sorry. Goodbye.
I agree with the writer of the article, working like that until 67 is ridiculous.
Richard

 

[mylittletibbies]

It

I think that if you have worked in certain sectors like Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Nursing, Armed Forces, Prison and building industry and some of the associated trades you should be able to choose when you retire from that sector. A person that sits behind a desk can work until their retirement age and even longer. There needs to be help and training for people wanting to change their jobs after they can't do their current job any longer and it really doesn't matter the reason.

I doubt that it would make any difference, the bulk of employers don't want to employ 50 year olds, let alone those in their 60s

 

[Saintshockey]

I finished work 2 years ago,and I went a couple of years early!!! After 47 years of work I felt I deserved it!! But found very quickly how quiet and lonely life can be when retired.....so my wife and I started a small business from home,and life now is awesome!!!
Guys work at retirement!!!!!

 

[mylittletibbies]

Thank you for your years of service

Hi there, I am one of those paramedics that was thrown on the scrap heap after a major car accident where a semi trailer cut us off at an intersection while we were on lights and sirens. I won't bore you with details but I have a metal hip left over from that. Yes, I have been assaulted or threatened with assault many times and of course seen it all in 30 years. After the accident and operations, when all was finally stable I got a letter from the service stating my medical discharge. No thanks or sorry. Goodbye.
I agree with the writer of the article, working like that until 67 is ridiculous.
Richard

.

 

[bedandy2006]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

View attachment 25561

An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'

View attachment 25608​

What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

 

[bedandy2006]

In Gary's situation how much increase in road deaths/accidents suicides etc has there been say in the last 10 years ? No wonder we are losing these valuable workers

I'm a painter, 65, & struggle now to climb ladders, bend my knees to paint skirting boards, etc. I fear for us, plasterers, concreters, landscapers, etc. Trouble is, pollies don't care as 98% of themhave NEVER done any hard manual work, except mow their lawns once a fortnight!!

 

[Judy HB]

There’s a lot of us senior citizens! There must be some way we can band together and make a difference! I was just doing retail work at 63 but struggling to do 5 hours standing each day. Especially if it’s medical we should be able to retire when the body can’t do it.
My hubby and I are looking forward to doing some traveling but sadly a lot of couples are past being able to when they finally get to retire. Not fair when you pay taxes all your working life.

 

[Aussie all the Way]

Yes totally agree Ambo's, Paramedics, Police, Firemen/woman, these very physical and mentally challenging jobs definitely should retire earlier than most their bodies just can't cope, tradies I think should just retire when they want with the prices they charge. My friend is an ICP Paramedic, has had her knees, shoulder done because of wear and tear, and is now struggling with burn out and is 12 years away from retirement age. Service men/women retire at 60 so WHY can't these professions as well.

 

[Les Brett]

To ask older Australians to work longer than they physically or mentally can is an insult, not a reward, for the work they have done over the years. I feel, the reason they need older Australians to work longer is because a lot of the younger Australians (not all) don't want to work or don't have the work ethic as we did. Younger Australians want to live for the moment, travel overseas every year and work cash in hand. That doesn't contribute to their Superannuation or Taxation revenue which we need to supply all the benefit's our government hand out. Forcing older Australians to work longer will only force them to look for alternative revenue streams like unemployment benefit's (got to burn up your assets before you can apply) or going on workers compensation. Food for thought.

 

[Wendy]

It all depends on the job, I worked in an office and worked until I was 67, my husband was on the tools and was exhausted when he retired at 65.

 

[BridgewaterMike]

Here at the SDC team, we truly understand the importance of maintaining an active and fulfilling career throughout life. Not only does it bring personal satisfaction, but it also provides a sense of financial security.

Many retirees were left feeling disappointed when they found out that the pension eligibility age was raised to 67 starting July 1 this year. This decision sparked outrage among various trade industry groups.

While some may have the luxury of having a few years or decades ahead before retirement becomes a concern, certain professions heavily rely on physical stamina and a dedicated, hardworking attitude.

For individuals in these fields, increasing the retirement age can mean facing more back-breaking and labour-intensive years ahead.

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An Aussie paramedic does not think he will make it to the new, higher pension age before he “breaks”, and he says he is not alone. Credit: Shutterstock.

Paramedic Gary Wilson, 51, is an example of someone who’s already been in the job for nearly two decades yet is nowhere close to the latest retirement age of 67. And it’s safe to say that the physical and mental stress of being a first responder is taking a toll on him.

'It’s more and more unusual for paramedics to reach retirement because it’s getting harder and harder,' Wilson, a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association (APA), told a news outlet.

'Most paramedics are leaving the career well before retirement age, and increasing the retirement age is forcing more and more of us to make really tough choices.'

The risks associated with being a first responder are well-documented.

A study conducted in 2014 found that paramedics have the highest injury and fatality rate among all Australian workers, with the risk of serious injury being seven times higher than the national average.

Shockingly, they are more than twice as likely to be injured on the job compared to police officers and are at a significantly higher risk of facing assault during their duties.

To make matters worse, first responders also face considerable mental health risks.

Government studies reveal that those in the emergency services have twice the likelihood of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general public.

As much as we appreciate and rely on the dedication of these brave individuals, it's crucial to be aware of their challenges and provide them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their vital roles.

Sadly, these issues aren’t worked out in a few months; the physical and emotional stress associated with being a first responder can take a significant toll and render someone incapable of doing their job after years of service.

And that’s what Wilson fears might happen—that the stresses of the job could soon take a toll on him and force him to make a heartbreaking decision to leave before he can even retire.

'It’s a hard job, physically and mentally,' he said.

'In NSW, as a 60-something-year-old paramedic, you’re expected to do the same job as a 20-something-year-old paramedic with years of trauma and stress under your belt.'

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What's more, Wilson fears that the increase in retirement age isn't only bad for those currently on the job but could have serious repercussions on the paramedics that come after them, as it could lead to those in the profession leaving before they're eligible for a pension.

'It means I’ve got to leave a job I love to look for something else. And the problem with that is we all know how hard it is for people to find work when they’re in that pre-retirement phase,' he explained.

'So we (paramedics) spend decades serving the community and being broken by our employer, and then we’re virtually thrown to the scrap heap and replaced with someone else.'

Key Takeaways

• An Australian paramedic, Gary Wilson, voiced concerns that he and others may not reach the new pension eligibility age before being worn out by the physical and mental demands of the job.
• The rise in the pension eligibility age to 67 for Australians born after 1956 has triggered widespread concerns among many industry groups.
• According to data, paramedics are at a higher risk of serious injury and mental health conditions than many other professions.
• Mr Wilson fears the raised retirement age may result in the loss of experienced paramedics, who feel compelled to leave before reaching pension age due to the job’s demanding nature.

The work carried out by paramedics, police officers, and other emergency service personnel is vital and demanding. Unfortunately, it is often underappreciated and goes unnoticed.

At the SDC, we recognise the value of our first responders and their significant contributions to our society. We sincerely hope that all of these brave individuals can retire with the security and peace of mind they rightfully deserve.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this subject matter. Have you had any personal experiences with first responders or paramedics? Feel free to share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below!

The answer is simple, set the retiring age at two levels depending on the job you are in. Paramedics , building and manual workers leave retirement age at 65, others such as office personel and shop assistants, doctors plus many others in less physical professions raise it to 67.