Demographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your future

Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney
  • 5.0 (24)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and wealth and property investment expert Michael Yardney as they share Australian demographic shifts, trend analysis and social change insights to help business decision makers, entrepreneurs, and investors make informed decisions. Each week, we bring you in-depth discussions about how demographics affects our future and actionable advice on demographic factors that influence property investment, business and industry and how to prepare for demographic and social changes in the next decade. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or investor, our podcast equips you with knowledge to stay ahead of the curve. In a rapidly changing world, empower your business and investment decisions with data-driven insights. By subscribing to Demographics Decoded, you gain access to: • Expert analysis from leading authorities in demography, economics and the future. • Insights into the trends that will impact your business and investments. • Strategies for leveraging demographic shifts to your advantage. https://DemographicsDecoded.com.au

  1. Australia’s Migration Surge: The Truth About Who’s Coming to Australia

    4 DAYS AGO

    Australia’s Migration Surge: The Truth About Who’s Coming to Australia

    Migration is shaping Australia’s future more than almost any other force. In 2024, about 580,000 new residents arrived, while 240,000 left permanently – giving us a net migration gain of 340,000 people. That’s far above our long-term average, and it raises big questions about how our nation can handle such rapid growth . But who exactly are these new arrivals? In this episode of Demographics Decoded, we will discuss the significant surge in migration to Australia, particularly focusing on the role of international students and the implications for the economy, workforce, and housing market.   We explore the challenges and future trends in migration, emphasizing the need for a more strategic approach to immigration policy to address skill shortages and housing pressures.     Takeaways    ·         Australia's net migration reached over 340,000 in 2024. ·         International students make up a significant portion of new migrants. ·         The economic impact of international students is substantial, contributing around $65,000 each. ·         Migration trends are influenced by global events like the pandemic. ·         The current migration system needs to be more strategic and focused on future skills needs. ·         Housing pressures are exacerbated by high migration numbers. ·         The aging population in Australia necessitates continued migration for workforce sustainability. ·         Political discussions around cutting migration often lack substance and are populist in nature. ·         The housing market is influenced by policy decisions, not just migration numbers. ·         A more targeted approach to skilled migration could benefit Australia's economy.   Chapters    01:17 - Migration Surge or Post-Pandemic Catch-Up?  05:17 - International Students: 1.1 Million Enrolled and Their Real Impact  10:52 - Student Pathways to Permanent Residency and Skills Gaps  16:25 - Why Australia Is Hooked on Migration for Taxes and Workforce  22:57 - Redesigning the Skilled Migration Pipeline for the Future     About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. https://www.tdgp.com.au/enquire     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders     While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    27 min
  2. Australia vs. The World: Are We Still the Lucky Country?

    7 OCT

    Australia vs. The World: Are We Still the Lucky Country?

    Is Australia still the lucky country? That phrase has been part of our national identity for decades, but in a world of rising costs, global competition, and shifting demographics, does it still hold true? In today’s show, we explore Australia's current standing compared to other nations and how its position has evolved since the 1990s. Whether you’re a property investor, a business owner, or just curious about how Australia stacks up, stay tuned – this should be a fascinating conversation about prosperity, perception, and our future.   Takeaways    ·         Australia's GDP per capita ranks above Canada and the Netherlands. ·         Australia's economy relies heavily on mining, agriculture, tourism, and education. ·         Demographics and immigration have significantly driven Australia's economic growth. ·         There is a need for Australia to diversify its economy to reduce reliance on mining. ·         Wealth distribution in Australia shows significant inequality despite overall wealth. ·         The property market has absorbed much of Australia's newfound wealth. ·         Australia's energy prices need to be addressed for future economic growth. ·         Comparative analysis with countries like Brazil and Germany reveals strengths and weaknesses. ·         The perception of being 'lucky' can mask underlying economic challenges. ·         Future prosperity will depend on strategic policy decisions regarding energy and housing.   Chapters    01:38 - Dumb Luck or Smart Strategy: Australia’s Resource-Driven Wealth  06:43 - Mining, Juicy GDP and Why Canada Can’t Keep Up  10:18 - Migration as the Hidden Engine of GDP Growth  15:42 - Inequality, Generations and the Risk of a Victim Mentality  22:04 - Can Australia Stay Lucky? Diversification, Energy Costs and the Next 30 Years     About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. https://www.tdgp.com.au/enquire     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders     While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    27 min
  3. Why Fewer Australians Own Their Homes—and What That Means for Our Future

    30 SEPT

    Why Fewer Australians Own Their Homes—and What That Means for Our Future

    For generations, owning a home has been at the heart of the Australian dream. In 1966, nearly three-quarters of Australian households owned their home, either outright or with a mortgage. Fast-forward to the 2021 Census, and that figure had slipped to just 63 per cent. For younger Australians, the drop has been even steeper. And while renting is far more common today, the cost of entry into home ownership has never been higher. So what’s driving this change? Is it just the market doing what markets do, or have we set ourselves on a path where home ownership becomes an exclusive club? That's what Simon Kuestenmacher and I discussed in today's episode of the Demographics Decoded Podcast.     Takeaways    ·         Homeownership is integral to a sense of belonging and financial security. ·         The peak homeownership rate in Australia was 75% in 1996, now it is 63%. ·         Younger Australians are facing steeper declines in homeownership rates. ·         Homeownership rates reflect both affordability and life cycle stages. ·         Government policies historically encouraged homeownership, but this has changed. ·         The wealth gap between homeowners and renters is increasing. ·         Political priorities are shifting as younger voters feel locked out of homeownership. ·         First home buyer incentives may lead to short-term price increases. ·         A balanced housing market supports economic stability and growth. ·         Gradual policy shifts are necessary to improve homeownership rates.   Chapters    00:00 The Great Australian Dream: Homeownership Trends 02:05 Historical Context: Peak House in Australia 05:19 Demographic Shifts and Homeownership Rates 09:37 Economic Factors Influencing Homeownership 12:13 Wealth Gap: Owners vs. Renters 14:55 Political Implications of Homeownership Decline 17:46 The Role of Property Investors 20:42 Policy Recommendations for Housing 26:07 Future of Homeownership in Australia   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders     While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram   Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    28 min
  4. Why Australia’s Middle Class is Shrinking – and What It Means for You

    23 SEPT

    Why Australia’s Middle Class is Shrinking – and What It Means for You

    Australia's middle class is shrinking, so today Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the implications for society and the housing market.   We examine the historical context of the middle class, the factors contributing to its decline, and the significance of housing in wealth accumulation.   Our conversation also delves into the forces shaping the future of the middle class, including intergenerational wealth transfer, migration, and political change.   Finally, we discuss potential strategies for rebuilding the middle class, emphasising the need for education reform, affordable housing, and tax reform.   Takeaways    ·         The middle class in Australia is shrinking due to various economic factors. ·         Housing affordability has significantly decreased over the decades. ·         Intergenerational wealth transfer is creating a divide between rich and poor. ·         Migration is increasing pressure on housing and infrastructure. ·         Political changes are influencing the perception of the middle class. ·         TAFE degrees should be universally free to support the middle class. ·         Affordable housing is crucial for wealth creation. ·         Tax reforms are necessary to address wealth inequality. ·         A healthy middle class contributes to social cohesion and stability. ·         Understanding demographics is key to navigating future economic trends.   Chapters    00:00 Introduction to the Middle Class Discussion 01:29 Understanding the Middle Class 04:29 The U-Shaped Society 08:08 The Role of Housing in the Middle Class 09:53 The Impact of Employment Changes 12:20 Forces Shaping the Future of the Middle Class 17:46 Political Changes and Their Implications 19:22 Strategies to Rebuild the Middle Class 26:58 The Importance of a Healthy Middle Class   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders     While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram     Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    33 min
  5. You’ll Probably Change Careers Twice in the Next 20 Years – Here’s How to Survive It

    16 SEPT

    You’ll Probably Change Careers Twice in the Next 20 Years – Here’s How to Survive It

    Believe it or not, the average Australian will change occupations not once, but more than twice over the next 20 years.   And that's not just changing jobs—it's likely to be a complete shift into a different occupation.   Today, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the evolving landscape of work in Australia, and explore the factors driving this change, including technology, demographics, and the need for flexible education and training systems.   The conversation also explores the role of migration in the workforce and highlights the importance of developing soft skills in preparation for future job markets.   Ultimately, we highlight the potential for positive outcomes from embracing career shifts and the necessity of adapting to a rapidly changing world.   Takeaways    ·         The average Australian is expected to change occupations more than twice in the next 20 years. ·         Job mobility has decreased since the mid-90s due to housing affordability. ·         Change is often seen as scary, but it can lead to new opportunities. ·         Education systems need to adapt to prepare workers for changing job markets. ·         Migration can fill skills gaps but should be managed strategically. ·         Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in the workforce. ·         Individuals must be proactive in upskilling and adapting to change. ·         The pandemic has shaped a generation that is more resilient to change. ·         Career zigzagging is becoming more accepted in the job market. ·         Employers should invest in training to retain talent.   Chapters    00:00 The Future of Work: Changing Occupations 04:33 Drivers of Job Change: Technology and Demographics 09:12 Education and Training for Career Transitions 13:37 The Impact of AI on Job Markets 17:59 Migration and Its Effects on Local Employment 22:36 Skills for the Future: Adapting to Change   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders     While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram   Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    27 min
  6. Why More Aussies Are Living Alone — And What It Means for the Future

    9 SEPT

    Why More Aussies Are Living Alone — And What It Means for the Future

    What if I told you that one of the most significant demographic shifts shaping our cities, our housing markets, and even our social lives over the next few decades… isn’t migration, isn’t birth rates, and isn’t ageing? It’s something far more personal. In today’s show, we’re talking about a silent revolution - the rise of the single-person household. More Australians than ever are living alone, and it’s not just retirees or Gen Zs in tiny apartments. From the newly single at 54 to the solo 29-year-old navigating life on their terms, this trend is redrawing the blueprint of modern life and reshaping the housing market in a way most people aren't even noticing. Our conversation highlights how modern living is evolving, with more individuals choosing to live alone and the need for appropriate housing solutions to accommodate these changes.   Takeaways    ·         The rise of single-person households is a significant demographic shift. ·         Single living is reshaping housing markets and consumer products. ·         Demographic changes are leading to increased loneliness among some individuals. ·         International students primarily occupy single-person housing markets. ·         Older generations are increasingly living alone due to the loss of partners. ·         Housing policies need to adapt to the growing number of single households. ·         The trend of marrying later in life contributes to more single-person households. ·         Communal living arrangements are becoming more desirable but challenging to manage. ·         The housing market is affected by the influx of single migrants. ·         Understanding demographics is crucial for future planning and investment.     Chapters    00:00 The Rise of Single-Person Households 05:12 Demographic Shifts and Their Implications 10:36 International Students and Housing Market Dynamics 13:28 Loneliness and Mental Health in Solo Living 16:25 Modern Life and Individualism   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders.   While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    19 min
  7. How Does Your Wealth Stack Up Against Your Generation?

    2 SEPT

    How Does Your Wealth Stack Up Against Your Generation?

    Whether you’re just starting out, deep in your wealth-building years, or nearing retirement, it’s only natural to wonder: “How do I stack up compared to others?” In today's show, Simon Kuestenmacher and I look into the fascinating – and sometimes uncomfortable – world of generational wealth. We discuss the current financial landscape, highlighting the wealth distribution among baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z.   The conversation delves into the challenges faced by each generation, the impact of intergenerational wealth transfer, and the importance of strategic financial planning. So if you’re interested in whether you’re on the right track financially – whether you’re ahead of the average, or still catching up – stay tuned. This conversation might be the benchmark you’ve been looking for.   Takeaways    ·         Wealth comparison is a common concern among Australians. ·         Most people perceive themselves as middle class, regardless of actual wealth. ·         The distribution of wealth is increasingly polarized, with fewer middle-class households. ·         Baby boomers hold a significant portion of Australia's wealth due to longer accumulation periods. ·         Gen X faces unique challenges balancing mortgages, children, and aging parents. ·         Millennials struggle with wealth accumulation compared to previous generations. ·         Gen Z is just starting their financial journey with limited wealth. ·         Property remains a key asset for wealth building in Australia. ·         Wealth building requires time and strategic planning. ·         It's important to focus on personal financial goals rather than comparisons.   Chapters    00:00 Introduction to Wealth Comparison 02:42 Generational Wealth Dynamics 05:34 Baby Boomers: The Wealth Accumulators 08:24 Gen X: The Sandwich Generation 11:00 Millennials: The Struggling Generation 13:39 Gen Z: The New Entrants 16:13 Wealth Building Strategies 18:58 Conclusion and Advice   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. https://www.tdgp.com.au/enquire     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders.   While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

    24 min
  8. Love or Leverage? How Soaring House Prices Are Trapping Couples Together

    26 AUG

    Love or Leverage? How Soaring House Prices Are Trapping Couples Together

    Have you ever wondered how the housing market is shaping our most personal life choices? In today’s show Simon Küstenmacher and I explore fascinating new Australian research that reveals how rising property costs are affecting relationship dynamics, marriage stability, and even divorce rates. We discuss how soaring house prices may be locking individuals into unhappy marriages due to financial constraints, the trends in divorce rates, and the economic factors influencing marriage decisions.   The conversation also touches on mental health implications, gender dynamics in marriage and divorce, and the broader societal impacts of housing economics on family structures.   The episode concludes with reflections on the future trends in demographics and the ongoing influence of housing on personal relationships.   Takeaways    ·         Soaring house prices might be locking people into marriages. ·         Housing markets are reshaping family dynamics, not the other way around. ·         Divorce costs are just too high, influencing marital decisions. ·         The rate of divorce in Australia is at its lowest level since 1976. ·         High house prices can keep couples together, even if unhappy. ·         People marry if they expect benefits from marriage to exceed costs. ·         The lower income partner is often disadvantaged in divorce situations. ·         Women are increasingly outperforming men in education and income. ·         Housing economics plays a significant role in family dynamics. ·         Housing is shaping our relationships and families in profound ways.   Chapters    00:00 The Impact of Housing Prices on Relationships 02:52 Divorce Rates and Economic Pressures 05:05 Marriage Trends and Demographic Changes 07:29 Cultural Narratives and Relationship Dynamics 10:15 Financial Implications of Divorce 13:01 Renting vs. Homeownership in Relationship Breakdowns 15:44 Mental Health and Relationship Satisfaction 18:26 Gender Dynamics in Marriage and Divorce 20:53 The Broader Implications of Housing Economics Links: The article mentioned in our show: Soaring house prices locking people into marriages  https://theconversation.com/soaring-house-prices-may-be-locking-people-into-marriages-new-research-shows-260086   About Simon Kuestenmacher   Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group   Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.     He ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can’t get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.   Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. https://www.tdgp.com.au/enquire     About Michael Yardney   Michael Yardney- founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders.   While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia’s leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.   Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.   Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth-producing results.

    23 min
See All (62)

Trailer

5
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Join leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and wealth and property investment expert Michael Yardney as they share Australian demographic shifts, trend analysis and social change insights to help business decision makers, entrepreneurs, and investors make informed decisions. Each week, we bring you in-depth discussions about how demographics affects our future and actionable advice on demographic factors that influence property investment, business and industry and how to prepare for demographic and social changes in the next decade. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or investor, our podcast equips you with knowledge to stay ahead of the curve. In a rapidly changing world, empower your business and investment decisions with data-driven insights. By subscribing to Demographics Decoded, you gain access to: • Expert analysis from leading authorities in demography, economics and the future. • Insights into the trends that will impact your business and investments. • Strategies for leveraging demographic shifts to your advantage. https://DemographicsDecoded.com.au

Information

You Might Also Like