Demographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your future

Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney
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Demographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your future

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. Why Governments Keep Failing Us: The Truth About Reactive Politics

    2D AGO

    Why Governments Keep Failing Us: The Truth About Reactive Politics

    It seems that politics is stuck in a reactive mode—always putting out fires instead of preventing them in the first place. It feels like we’re watching the same movie over and over again, so in this episode of the Demographics Decoded podcast, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the challenges and opportunities of preventive governance. We explain how the cycle is frustrating because we know prevention is not only more cost-effective but also better for society in the long run. Yet, time and time again, governments wait until things hit crisis point before stepping in. It’s like they’re addicted to the drama of a crisis. We explore the reasons why political systems often react to crises rather than prevent them, emphasising the importance of long-term thinking and public support for effective policy-making. Our conversation highlights successful preventive measures in various sectors and the potential for change as younger, more socially conscious generations take leadership roles. Ultimately, the discussion is optimistic about the future of preventive governance in Australia. Takeaways Politicians often prioritise short-term gains over long-term solutions. Preventive policies are often overlooked in favor of reactive measures. Long-term thinking is essential for effective governance. Public support is crucial for implementing preventive measures. Successful preventive policies can be hard to justify politically. Statistics and data are important for convincing policymakers. The younger generations are more community-minded and socially conscious. There are successful examples of preventive policies in Australia. Change in governance tends to happen gradually. Optimism for the future of preventive governance is warranted. Chapters 02:46 The Challenges of Preventative Governance 05:47 Understanding Preventative Models 08:33 The Political Landscape and Short-Term Thinking 10:00 The Self-Undermining Nature of Prevention 12:43 Learning from Successful Preventative Policies 15:29 The Role of Community Support in Policy 18:20 The Future of Preventative Policies in Australia 28:50 The Importance of Demographic Awareness Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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.

    29 min
  2. Why the Suburbs You Know Today Will Look Completely Different in 20 Years

    MAR 4

    Why the Suburbs You Know Today Will Look Completely Different in 20 Years

    In today’s conversation, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss why the suburbs you know today will look completely different in 20 years. First, we’ll explore how the urban fringes of today are poised to become the middle suburbs of tomorrow.   Then, we’ll turn our attention to the challenge of NIMBYism—the Not In My Backyard syndrome and discuss the implications of migration and the challenges population growth. Not surprisingly Simon Kuestenmacher emphasises the significance of demographic insights in planning for a sustainable future. Takeaways Today’s urban fringes will become our middle suburbs as the population grows. Migration is essential for Australia's economy and urban growth. Medium density housing is crucial for accommodating future residents. NIMBYism hinders necessary urban development and densification. Infrastructure must keep pace with population growth to avoid crises, but it’s not. State governments are beginning to take control of urban planning from local councils. Demographic trends can guide effective urban planning strategies. The cost of construction is rising, impacting housing affordability. Future urban planning must consider sustainable growth and infrastructure needs. Chapters 06:33 Urban Planning for a Growing Population 10:57 Challenges of Medium Density Housing 15:04 NIMBYism: The Barrier to Development 19:24 Centralizing Urban Planning Authority 25:11 Introduction to Wealth Retreat 26:38 The Value of Community in Wealth Building   Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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.

    29 min
  3. Some Things That Will Never Change—No Matter How Crazy the World Gets

    FEB 25

    Some Things That Will Never Change—No Matter How Crazy the World Gets

    In today’s podcast we discuss a few things that never change in a world that never stops changing. And that’s because the things that never change are the most important things to pay attention to. However, change gets the most attention because it’s exciting, it’s surprising, it’s something that the media can comment on. I have found that to be a successful investor and a successful businessperson, I’ve had to be prepared for change, but I’ve also to understand those things that stay the same. Now don’t be confused by all this – it’s not a play on words. You’ll understand what I’m on about by the time you finish listening to this podcast So, let’s look at some things that never change in a world that never stops changing. Takeaways Life is cyclical; both good and bad times will pass. Understanding change is crucial for success in business. Optimism influences our actions and results. History teaches us lessons, but it doesn't repeat exactly. Humans inherently strive for improvement and good. Human connection remains vital despite technological advances. Demographic trends significantly shape our future. The principle of compounding applies to wealth and relationships. Chapters 02:24 The Optimistic Human Spirit 07:53 Resilience in the Face of Change 13:24 The Cyclical Nature of Life 15:53 The Unchanging Human Condition 20:02 The Power of Compounding 21:51 Demographic Trends: Aging Population 23:56 Population Growth Through Immigration 25:24 Urbanization Trends in Australia 27:00 The Growing Asian Middle Class 29:28 Generational Wealth Transfer 31:31 The Rise of Single-Person Households 33:58 The Value of Community in Wealth Building   Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.      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.

    36 min
  4. The One Thing All Investors Miss: Watching Out for the X-Factor

    FEB 18

    The One Thing All Investors Miss: Watching Out for the X-Factor

    What if I told you the single biggest threat—or opportunity—for your wealth creation journey could be something you never saw coming? In today’s episode, Simon Kuestenmacher and I explore the concept of X-Factors—unexpected events that can significantly impact businesses, investments, and lives. Over the past two decades, we’ve seen plenty of them—from the devastating Global Financial Crisis (GFC) to the COVID-19 pandemic, from global wars to record-breaking migration levels. So today we explore how these X factors, big and small, have impacted the Australian property market and the economy at large. We reflect on historical events, the role of AI, interest rates, and demographic changes, emphasizing the importance of understanding these factors to navigate future uncertainties. Takeaways Historical events provide valuable lessons for future predictions X-Factors are unexpected events that can disrupt economies. Some X factors are local—like government policy changes, interest rate hikes, or a surge in foreign investment. Others are global in nature, stemming from geopolitical events, technological revolutions, or social upheavals. While it’s essential to take a long-term view, you must always prepare for the unexpected. AI is a significant modern X-Factor affecting all industries. Political decisions can create unexpected economic outcomes. Forecasting requires humility and an understanding of complexity. Demographics play a crucial role in economic forecasting. Embracing uncertainty can lead to better decision-making. Chapters 02:17 Historical Context of X-Factors 05:55 Impact of Interest Rates and Consumer Confidence 09:16 Global Events and Their Economic Implications 13:11 The Role of AI as an X-Factor 16:43 COVID-19: A Major X-Factor 20:22 Generational Impact of X-Factors 24:21 Political X-Factors and Their Economic Effects 27:49 Lessons from the Past: Preparing for Future X-Factors 31:39 Conclusion: Embracing Uncertainty in Forecasting 40:52 The Importance of Demographic Awareness Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.      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.

    41 min
  5. The Great Car Takeover: Is Australia Ready for What’s Next?

    FEB 11

    The Great Car Takeover: Is Australia Ready for What’s Next?

    In today’s podcast we're shifting gears to discuss something that impacts almost every aspect of our daily lives—our cars. As we look ahead, the next decade promises significant changes in how we drive, where we live, and what we drive." You’ll hear Simon Kuestenmacher explain how he sees a future dominated by cars in a way we haven't seen before. So why not put the pedal to the metal and listen to this week’s show Takeaways Demographic trends are crucial in understanding our future including how we’ll be using cars. Millennials are increasingly moving to suburban areas, necessitating more cars. The shift towards larger vehicles is evident as families grow. Electric vehicles are slowly gaining market share, but still represent a small percentage of all the cars. Infrastructure is under pressure to cope with our population growth and car dependency. Urban planning must adapt to changing demographics and transport needs. Cultural attitudes significantly influence car ownership and transport choices. Self-driving cars could revolutionise urban transport and reduce the need for personal vehicles. Public transport systems in Australia face challenges due to low population density. Chapters 01:01 Demographic Trends Influencing Car Ownership 05:27 The Shift to Larger Vehicles 05:42 New Chapter 25:20 Urban Planning Solutions for Traffic 29:58 The Role of Demographics in Understanding Trends 32:39 The Importance of Demographic Awareness   Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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
  6. The age-bomb about to detonate in Australia

    FEB 4

    The age-bomb about to detonate in Australia

    In this episode of Demographics Decoded, Simon Kuestenmacher and I explore the concept of the 'age bomb' that will hit Australia and the challenges that come with the escalating demand for aged care, services retirement funding, and we explain the essential role of superannuation. Takeaways Australia's population is aging, impacting various sectors differently. The 'age bomb' refers to the pressures of an aging population. Australia’s 85 plus population will double by 2038, straining resources. Retirement planning is crucial as life expectancy increases. Superannuation is a key tool for funding retirement. Allowing young people to access their superannuation for housing will disrupt long-term savings. Major changes to superannuation regulations are expected. Dementia care is becoming increasingly important and costly. Aged care services need significant expansion to meet demand. Societal attitudes towards aging and retirement are evolving. Chapters 01:27 Understanding the Age Bomb 04:08 Retirement and Financial Planning Changes 06:49 Superannuation and Housing Market Dynamics 09:44 Future Changes to Superannuation 17:51 The Growing 85+ Population 21:29 Dementia and Its Impact on Society 27:34 Conclusion and Future Trends   Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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.

    32 min
  7. Are there more winners than losers when house prices rise?

    JAN 28

    Are there more winners than losers when house prices rise?

    Are there more winners or losers in our current challenging house markets? In this episode of the Demographics Decoded Podcast, Simon Kuestenmacher and I explore who the winners and losers are, examine the impact of government policies on housing affordability, and analyse the political landscape affecting young voters. We also delve into the implications of immigration on housing and the widening wealth gap, emphasizing the necessity for a balanced approach to housing policies that considers both supply and demand. Takeaways The housing market is experiencing significant fluctuations. High property prices benefit more stakeholders than they harm. Government policies often exacerbate housing affordability issues. Young voters are increasingly disillusioned with major parties. Immigration impacts housing demand and affordability. There is a widening wealth gap affecting young Australians. Supply and demand dynamics are crucial in housing policy discussions. Political stability is essential for effective housing policies. First homebuyer grants can inadvertently drive up prices. A balanced approach is needed to address housing affordability. Chapters 02:43 Winners in the Property Market 05:25 The Role of Government and Policy 08:14 The Political Landscape and Housing Affordability 10:58 The Future of Housing Policy 13:42 The Effects of Migration on Housing 16:21 Balancing Winners and Losers in the Market   Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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.

    31 min
  8. Inside Australia’s Future: Trends That Will Impact Every Generation by 2025

    JAN 21

    Inside Australia’s Future: Trends That Will Impact Every Generation by 2025

    We’re only a few weeks into this new year and already the world is changing around us. No doubt 2025 will bring its own events that will dominate our lives and financial markets, and in this, the third of a three-part series, we discuss various demographic trends and their implications for the economy, interest rates, and consumer behaviour.  We explore the spending power of different generations and the impact of geopolitical factors on Australia and emerging industries.  Our conversation also touches on the gender pay gap, mental health trends, the rise of vaping, and the influence of corporate influencers on consumer perceptions.  If you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to make sense of the rapid changes around us, you’ll come away with a clearer understanding of not just where we’re heading, but how you can prepare and thrive in this evolving landscape. Takeaways 2025 is predicted to be a year of significant change. Interest rates are expected to drop slightly, but not to historic lows. Millennials are entering their highest spending phase, impacting the economy. Australia's economy is supported by strong demographic trends. Geopolitical factors will influence Australia's trade relationships. Emerging industries like indoor play centers are thriving due to changing family dynamics. The gender pay gap is narrowing, especially among non-parents. Mental health issues are becoming more openly discussed and reported. Vaping poses new health risks and is under-regulated. High consumption is expected as millennials and baby boomers spend more. Chapters 01:48 Economic Predictions for 2025 06:16 Australia's Economic Outlook 08:34 Geopolitical Influences on Australia 11:40 Emerging Industries for Growth 15:43 The Gender Pay Gap 18:13 Mental Health Trends in Australia 23:44 The Rise of Vaping 27:28 Corporate Influencers and Consumption Trends Join Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney at Wealth Retreat 2025 –Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People – learn more here.    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.

    34 min
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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

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