Keyton leads national conversation on the future of retirement living
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Housing, Health and Happiness Roundtable-..Nathan Cockerill — Chief Executive Officer, Keyton

Keyton leads national conversation on the future of retirement living

Monday, 13 October 2025

With Australia’s ageing population growing rapidly and pressure mounting on housing, health and aged care systems, Keyton brought together some of the country’s brightest minds to explore a bold question: What does the future of retirement living look like, and how can we shape it for the better?

Held on 16 September at The Grove Ngunnawal in Canberra, the 2025 Future of Retirement Living Roundtable was hosted by Keyton CEO Nathan Cockerill and moderated by journalist Mark Eggleton. The event welcomed leaders from government, academia, economics and industry to share insights, challenge assumptions and co-create ideas for a more connected, sustainable and inclusive future for older Australians.

“This roundtable was about more than just ideas,” said Nathan Cockerill. “We know retirement living can play a powerful role in addressing some of the biggest challenges facing our nation. But it will take collaboration, courage and a shared commitment to reimagining what’s possible.”

The roundtable was recorded for editorial purposes, with outcomes to be featured in a special content series in The Australian on 15 October 2025. A short video compilation capturing the energy and insights from the day is now available to view below.

“At Keyton we are not only prepared, but ready to lead the sector in embracing the changes ahead,” said Cockerill. “It will require some bold and innovative thinking from governments to recognise the sector’s role in supporting our elderly to live longer, healthier lives. And surely that’s what we all want for Australia’s retirees.

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Key themes explored included:

  • The economic and social value of independent seniors living well
  • Retirement living’s role in easing housing supply pressures
  • The importance of ageing in place and co-located care models
  • Policy reform to unlock land and planning pathways
  • Innovations in intergenerational and wellness-focused communities

Panellists included:

  • Daniel Gannon, Executive Director, Retirement Living Council
  • Jeremy McKinnon, Principal, Think Economics
  • Dr Andy Ward, Senior Lecturer, University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Ashlee Berry, ACT & Capital Region Director, Property Council of Australia
  • Ben Green, Executive Group Manager, ACT Government
  • Kara Pisani, Head of Safety, Sustainability and Wellbeing, Keyton

A confident voice for the sector

This is the second year Keyton has hosted a national roundtable, reinforcing its role as a sector leader and convener of cross-sector dialogue. The event builds on Keyton’s broader commitment to lead with heart, create places for the future, and advocate for policy settings that empower independent seniors to thrive.

What’s next?

Keyton will continue to share insights and outcomes from the roundtable across its channels and with key stakeholders to inspire further conversation, collaboration and change — and to ensure retirement living is recognised as a vital part of Australia’s social and economic future.

Media Contacts

Tim Mahony