Author Identifier

Pauline Phiri: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2259-6189  

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Edith Cowan University

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)

School

School of Arts and Humanities

First Supervisor

Kwadwo Adusei-Asante

Second Supervisor

Eyal Gringat

Abstract

The question of where to retire is a significant consideration for immigrants as they approach retirement. With global migration on the rise, the decision to retire in the host country or return to the country of origin becomes increasingly important. As a successful multicultural society, Australia has experienced a significant influx of immigrants from diverse regions across the globe. Immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) constitute approximately 1.6% of the total population. However, understanding how these individuals are planning for their post retirement years and their intended place of settlement is essential. Despite the growing presence of SSA immigrants in Western countries, research on their post-retirement decisions remains limited. This study addresses this gap by exploring the post-retirement location intentions of SSA immigrants in Western Australia.

This study employed a qualitative Grounded Theory (GT) methodology to explore participants’ perceptions of post-retirement preparation. Given the limited existing research in this area, GT was selected for its strength in generating theory directly from participant data. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 20 participants aged between 50 and 65 years. In line with GT principles, data collection and analysis were conducted concurrently, allowing emerging insights from the data to inform subsequent data collection. To analyse the data, the study integrated thematic analysis within the GT framework, providing a comprehensive and nuanced approach to understanding the phenomenon.

Contrary to common assumptions and previous research suggesting that immigrants from SSA predominantly intend to return to their countries of origin post-retirement, this study found that such intentions were not the dominant preference among participants. Instead, four distinct perspectives regarding post-retirement location choices emerged. The first group expressed an intention to remain in the host country, Australia. The second group intended to return to their country of origin. The third group preferred a transnational lifestyle – alternating between Australia and the country of origin. The fourth group was ambivalent and had not yet decided whether to stay or return.

While a range of factors influenced these diverse perspectives, family dynamics consistently played a central role. For participants intending to remain in Australia, decisions were anchored in commitments to their nuclear family in Australia. Similarly, those opting to return were influenced by connections to extended family in their countries of origin. For those pursuing a transnational approach, family remained a driving force – balancing relationships with both their nuclear family in Australia and extended relatives overseas.

This study sheds light on critical concerns facing SSA immigrants as they prepare for their post-retirement years. These include social isolation, loneliness, economic vulnerability and concerns regarding residential aged care. By highlighting these concerns, the study emphasises the necessity for culturally sensitive, community-based initiatives aimed at enhancing social support and inclusion for ageing SSA immigrants. Furthermore, this research contributes to existing literature by incorporating the perspectives of SSA individuals and exploring the complex processes underlying their post-retirement decision-making. By doing so, it contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the unique experiences and needs of this demographic, informing policy makers and service providers in the development of targeted interventions that promote well-being and social integration.

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Access to this thesis is embargoed until 17th January 2028

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