This is Why Australia needs a Demographic Strategy
We all know that Australia’s population is growing fast—faster than we’re building homes, roads, schools, or even planning for the future. Migration is up, infrastructure is lagging, and housing is stretched to breaking point. Yet instead of managing all these moving parts together, our governments still treat them like isolated problems. In today’s episode of Demographics Decoded, we answer the question: “What if Australia had a national strategy to plan for our demographic future—one that actually aligned migration, housing, infrastructure, and workforce policy?” I think you’ll be fascinated by the answer… Takeaways Australia's population is growing faster than infrastructure can keep up. A national demographic strategy is essential for future planning. Migration impacts housing prices and availability. The dependency ratio is crucial for economic stability. Public housing stock needs to increase to address affordability. Long-term policies are necessary to support younger generations. Political cycles hinder the implementation of effective demographic strategies. Millennials play a significant role in future workforce planning. International students contribute significantly to the economy. A transparent approach to migration and housing is needed Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Demographic Challenges in Australia 02:44 The Need for a National Demographic Strategy 05:26 Understanding Migration and Its Economic Impact 07:59 Housing Affordability and Public Housing Solutions 10:53 The Interconnectedness of Policy Areas 13:25 Targeting Dependency Ratios and Migration 16:10 Public Housing and Its Role in Affordability 18:41 Long-term Strategies vs. Short-term Politics 23:04 The Future of Australia's Demographic Policies 31:14 The Importance of Demographic Awareness 31:34 Understanding Market Trends Links and Resources: 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.
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31:42
What 60 Years of Aussie Growth Tells Us About the Next 20
Have you ever stopped to think about how far Australia has come since 1966?That was the year we ditched pounds and pence for dollars and cents… but that’s just the start.Back then, we were a country of just over 11 million people, mostly of Anglo-Celtic heritage, with an economy built on factories, farming, and following Britain’s lead. Fast forward almost 60 years, and we’ve become one of the most diverse, service-based, urbanised economies in the world — and one of the wealthiest too.But how did we get here? Was it luck? Policy? Population? Or just being in the right place at the right time? In this episode of the Demographics Decoded Podcast we explore the evolution of Australia's demographics over the past six decades, focusing on unemployment trends, the impact of global events, and the role of technology and immigration in shaping the workforce. We discuss the resilience of the Australian economy, particularly during crises like the Global Financial Crisis and COVID-19, and make predictions about future employment trends and economic stability. Takeaways Australia has undergone significant demographic changes since 1966. Unemployment rates have fluctuated due to various global events. The mining sector has been crucial for Australia's economic resilience. Technological advancements have reshaped the job market. Women entering the workforce has boosted household spending. The 1990s saw a recovery from recession and rising optimism. COVID-19 led to innovative economic safeguards to prevent mass unemployment. Demographic shifts will continue to influence the workforce. Immigration plays a vital role in addressing labor shortages. Future unemployment rates are expected to remain low. Chapters 00:00 Australia's Transformation Since 1966 02:51 Unemployment Trends and Economic Shifts 05:16 The Impact of Global Events on Employment 08:05 Demographic Changes and Workforce Dynamics 10:39 The Role of Mining and Agriculture in Australia's Economy 13:05 The 1990s Recession and Recovery 15:54 The Global Financial Crisis and Its Aftermath 18:36 COVID-19's Impact on Employment 21:06 Future Employment Trends and Demographics 24:01 The Role of Immigration and Gender in Workforce Changes 28:07 Looking Ahead: Australia's Economic Future 33:32 The Importance of Demographic Awareness 33:51 Understanding Market Trends Links and Resources: 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.
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34:00
This One Thing Could Divide Us on Climate Change—And It’s Not What You Think!
In this episode we’re tackling a hot topic that affects us all - climate change. But we’re not just discussing the weather; we explore how different generations perceive and react to climate issues and what that means to us. We also discuss the psychological impact of climate anxiety on younger generations, the implications for family planning and career choices, and the stark differences in climate change impacts between urban and rural areas. Takeaways Different generations perceive climate change differently. Younger generations experience significant climate anxiety. Family planning decisions are influenced by climate concerns. Urban areas face less direct impact from climate change. Rural communities are more vulnerable to climate effects. Property values may decline in climate-affected areas. Australia may see uninsurable regions due to climate risks. Norway serves as a model for effective climate action. Investment in green technologies is crucial for the future. Pragmatism is essential in climate policy discussions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Climate Change Perspectives 02:52 Generational Views on Climate Change 05:23 The Impact of Climate Anxiety on Younger Generations 07:56 Family Planning and Climate Change Concerns 10:39 The Role of Engineering in Climate Solutions 13:16 Urban vs. Rural Climate Change Impacts 15:45 Property Investment and Climate Risks 17:51 Political Discourse on Climate Change 20:45 Learning from Global Examples 25:09 Pragmatic Approaches to Climate Policy 29:41 Understanding Market Trends Links and Resources: 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.
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29:50
How Time Travel and Bikes are Shaping Our Cities – Find Out What You’re Missing!
In today’s chat, Simon Kuestenmacher and I explore various themes related to two interesting article articles he recently wrote. One about "Time Travel" and the other about "Bicycles as a Time Saver." Reading them made me rethink the rhythms of our daily routines and the spaces we inhabit, because Simon proposed innovative ideas on how our cities can adapt to our evolving needs for efficiency and quality of life. We discuss the concept of 15-minute cities, the implications of demographic shifts, the benefits of bicycles as a mode of transport as well as urban planning, demographics, and the future of transportation. Takeaways 15-minute cities aim to improve accessibility and livability. Walkability is an important factor in urban living and how to assess an areas “walk score” Demographic shifts influence consumer behavior and urban planning. Commuting by car negatively impacts mental health. Bicycles can save time and improve health. Active transport offers more control and satisfaction. Understanding generational values is crucial for businesses. Listening to Podcasts can enhance the commuting experience. Bicycles are an energy-efficient mode of transport. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Urban Planning and Time Travel 02:21 The 15-Minute City Concept 07:51 Demographics and Their Impact on Urban Living 12:22 Bicycles as Time Machines 20:26 The Psychological Impact of Commuting 21:40 Future Trends in Commuting and Demographics 23:41 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.
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24:12
The Four Retirement Phases You Never Knew Existed – Are You Prepared?
In today’s episode of Demographics Decoded, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the various phases of retirement, the demographic changes affecting retirees, and the importance of financial planning and community support. Now, for those listening or watching who are not reaching retirement age any time soon, please keep listening because even though this may not affect you for years to come, it probably will affect your parents or grandparents, and they definitely will affect you sometime in the future While much has been written and spoken about the financial side of retirement, if you’re not preparing emotionally and socially, and many baby boomers aren’t –retirement will be a bumpy ride. Takeaways Retirement consists of several phases that individuals must navigate. The 'feeling lost' phase can lead to mental health issues. Reinventing oneself in retirement is crucial for fulfillment. Demographic changes are reshaping retirement trends. Early retirement can lead to identity crises for athletes. Financial planning is more challenging for today's retirees. Community support is vital for mental health in retirement. Technology can enhance independent living for seniors. The retirement living market is rapidly growing in Australia. Chapters 01:12 Understanding the Phases of Retirement 02:50 The Holiday Phase of Retirement 04:33 Navigating the Feeling Lost Phase 06:09 Trial and Error: Rediscovering Purpose 07:05 Finding Fulfillment in Retirement 08:22 Changing Trends in Retirement Age 09:50 The Unique Challenges for Early Retirees 11:24 The Impact of Retirement on Relationships 13:00 Financial Concerns in Retirement 15:01 Public Policy and Retirement Support 17:12 Community and Social Interaction in Retirement 21:29 Technology's Role in Aging 23:40 The Future of Retirement Living 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.
About 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.
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