Cohort and Distributional Analysis of the Wealth of Australians

This paper gives an overview of the structure and distribution of wealth, focusing on differences between and within age cohorts. The pre- and post-retirement cohorts are of special concern; the issue being their capacity for self-funding during retirement. The paper also pays particular attention to the wealth and debt levels of vulnerable groups in society; especially income support recipients and lone parents. It concludes with a statistical analysis of the main determinants of differences in wealth.

Funded by: Australian Government Department of Family and Community Services.

The Melbourne Institute contact for this project is Associate Professor Bruce Headey.

The final report has been submitted to FaCS.