Big shifts, bold ideas: highlights from the National Retirement Living Summit

At this year’s National Retirement Living Summit in Brisbane, Hello Leaders hit the floor to speak with those at the coalface of change.

With demand rising, expectations shifting, and the lines between housing, care and lifestyle continuing to blur, the conversations at this year’s summit were both urgent and optimistic. From demographic disruption to the design of future-ready communities, this moment marks a critical turning point in how we think about ageing well.

Daniel Gannon – Executive Director, Retirement Living Council

Daniel Gannon outlines the scale of demographic change and its implications for retirement living, and urges the sector to act now. From the “silver tsunami” to the rising expectations of baby boomers, Gannon discusses tech adoption, wellbeing, planning bottlenecks, and the importance of the sector’s healthcare contribution.

Dr Brett Robinson – CEO, RetireAustralia

Dr Brett Robinson reflects on the shift away from institutional aged care and the growing consumer demand for independence, flexibility, and integrated care. He speaks candidly about the tightrope between lifestyle and support, why investment in retirement living makes sense, and how RetireAustralia is leveraging technology to keep people, not paperwork, at the centre of care.

Rachel Lane – Principal, Aged Care Gurus

Rachel Lane breaks down the biggest financial misconceptions around retirement villages — starting with exit fees — and explores the policy levers that could make downsizing more viable for older Australians. She also offers practical advice on superannuation, pensions, and the power of payment model flexibility.

Kara Jones – Village Manager, Keyton

Finalist for National Village Manager of the Year, Kara Jones brought a frontline perspective to the summit floor. With a background in hospitality and events, she shares how person-centred service, community spirit, and a whole lot of happy hours are redefining what it means to live well in retirement. Her passion, and her residents’, shines through.