Retirement

The path to a happier retirement

BY   |  THURSDAY, 2 JUL 2026    5:00PM

In the first instalment of the 2026 Challenger Retirement Happiness Index report, we looked at the factors that contribute most to retirement happiness, including purpose, mental wellbeing, social connection and financial confidence. In this second instalment, we explore how education, homeownership and cost of living pressures influence retirement outcomes.

Financial education and knowledge

A clear knowledge gap persists, despite 30% of Australians aged 60+ saying they'd be much

happier if they had access to education on their financial options in retirement.

According to Mandy Mannix, "after decades of savings, we are asking retirees to do something that feels completely counter-intuitive-to start spending. That change requires financial guidance and support to nudge them to behaviours that will deliver long term positive outcomes. Older Australians want a guaranteed, regular income in retirement to

manage day to day expenses and provide long-term financial security for life, but access and awareness remain key barriers".