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This paper examines the longer-term implications of Australia's ageing workforce for the nation's social and economic opportunity. The aim of the discussion is to contribute to the emerging understanding of the key role that mature age workers (defined as those aged 45 years and older) can play in the workplace of the future through an examination of the economic and social contribution of this section of the workforce. The author considers: (1) the ageing of the Australian workforce; (2) the potential for further economic growth produced by a larger cohort of mature age workers; (3) the possibilities for workforce participation by mature age workers for periods beyond traditional retirement age in a changed working environment; (4) the attitudes of employers, employees and community to the ageing process and the implications for their employment decisions and later transition from the workforce to retirement; and (5) current initiatives for mature age workers. It is argued that mature age workers should be considered for positions in the context of their individual abilities and capacities. The challenge will be to promote a cultural change in the community perception of mature age workers and to encourage initiatives that will facilitate their longer participation in the workforce.