PlanningxChange 136: Promoting great Retirement Living with Daniel Gannon

In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess and Peter speak with Daniel Gannon, Executive Director of the Retirement Living Council of Australia.
Daniel brings nearly two decades of experience across advocacy, public policy, and media, including eight years leading the Property Council in South Australia, where he played a key role in landmark tax reforms that strengthened the state’s investment landscape. Now at the helm of the Retirement Living Council, Daniel is championing policies to meet the needs of Australia’s rapidly ageing population and to promote age-friendly communities across the nation. He shares his insights into the future of retirement living—from debunking common misconceptions to exploring design, affordability, and the social and health benefits of village life. The conversation also tackles industry challenges: regulatory complexity, barriers to new supply, and how governments can better support this essential housing sector. Daniel discusses global and local innovations shaping the next decade of retirement living, the “silver tsunami” of demographic change, and why the right kind of housing can unlock new opportunities across Australia’s property market. In the Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Daniel recommends ‘Your exceptional life’ by Marcus Pearce https://marcuspearce.com.au. Jess recommends a podcast ‘Dr Emily - The Risk of Avoiding Risk’ by the Imperfects’ https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dr-emily-the-risk-of-avoiding-risk/id1476501557?i=1000656075537 Pete flags a forthcoming book he will publish ‘Kaizo at Dog Beach’ aimed at 3 - 7 year olds. Episode released 14 October 2025. (Japan National Train Day & Izzy’s birthday)