National Australia Bank boss Cameron Clyne is retiring at the age of 46, but most Australians expect they’ll be in their jobs for years longer than they’d like to be.

The well respected Mr Clyne surprised many by announcing his retirement this week, putting his family life ahead of his career.

No doubt his many years in well paid positions allowed his decision, making him much different to many Australians, according to a new survey.

Most think 57 is the best age to retire, and just 28 per cent of respondents will be happy to work past 62.

But the majority of Australians believe they’ll have to remain in the workforce until they are 63, the research from recruitment firm Randstad shows.

Even that would seem optimistic, with the pension age currently at 65, and set to gradually increase to 67.

The challenge for employers is keeping their staff motivated.

Randstad’s survey found 44 per cent of employees believe a more relaxed working schedule would be one of the key motivators to keep them working later in life.

Adaptable working hours would also be a key for 38 per cent of employees, and a third of those surveyed believe a more friendly working atmosphere could entice them to stay in their jobs.

“With five generations in the workforce at the same time, HR strategies need to appeal to both older and younger workers,” Ranstad’s Steve Shepherd said.