Episodes

  • The Real Reason Millions Are Moving to Australia – It’s Not What You Think

    The Real Reason Millions Are Moving to Australia – It’s Not What You Think
    Jun 17 2025
    What does migration really tell us? Not just about borders, jobs, or economic growth—but about freedom, human ambition, and the deep desire for a better life. In today’s show we explore the deeper meaning behind one of the most powerful global forces of our time - migration. So, if you're wondering why record numbers of people are choosing to call Australia home… or how migration patterns will shape our economy, housing markets, and workforce in the years ahead… or even what migration reveals about who we are as a society—this discussion will give you the big-picture insights you need. Takeaways Migration is driven by human ambition and the desire for a better life. Countries with high migration rates often reflect greater freedom. Freedom to leave a country is a significant indicator of personal freedom. Economic opportunities are a major factor influencing migration patterns. Most migrants prefer to stay close to their home countries. Australia is a multicultural nation with a high percentage of migrants. Integration of migrants into society is generally successful over generations. Concerns about migration often stem from infrastructure and housing issues. The US remains the top destination for global migrants. Migration trends are predictable and reflect global economic conditions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Migration and Human Ambition 02:58 Understanding Freedom Through Migration 04:53 The Dynamics of Global Migration Patterns 07:23 Economic Motivations Behind Migration 09:58 The Impact of Migration on Source Countries 12:35 Perceptions of Risk and Opportunity in Migration 15:30 Migration Trends in Europe and Beyond 18:02 Australia's Unique Migration Landscape 20:36 Challenges and Solutions in Migration Policy 23:11 Future Trends in Migration 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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    29 mins
  • Suburban Bliss is Back — How Millennials Are Reimagining the Great Aussie Dream

    Suburban Bliss is Back — How Millennials Are Reimagining the Great Aussie Dream
    Jun 10 2025
    In today’s show we discuss the significant shift of millennials from urban living to suburban areas. This is a generation that once embraced city skylines, inner-city cafes, and the hustle of urban living but are now packing up and heading for the burbs. But not for the white picket fence alone. We explore the reasons behind this migration, the changing dynamics of suburban life, and the challenges related to infrastructure and housing markets. The conversation also touches on the impact of remote work, the role of government in suburban development, and the economic landscape of new developments. Ultimately, we highlight how millennials are reshaping suburban culture while still valuing aspects of their urban lifestyles. Takeaways · Millennials are moving to the urban fringe for more space. · The traditional life stage cycle is still relevant for millennials. · Suburban living is being redefined with modern amenities. · Infrastructure in outer suburbs is lagging behind demand. · Remote work is changing commuting patterns for millennials. · Local governments play a crucial role in suburban development. · Migration continues to influence housing markets significantly. · Millennials desire walkable communities in the suburbs. · The economic landscape of new developments is complex. · Cultural consumption is evolving in suburban areas. Chapters 00:10 Millennials: From Urban Living to Suburban Life 02:48 The Changing Dynamics of Suburbia 05:23 Infrastructure Challenges in the Suburbs 10:50 Remote Work and Its Effects on Urban Planning 13:30 Government's Role in Suburban Development 18:32 A New Suburban Bliss: Millennial Reinvention 21:10 Demographic Insights for Future Planning 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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    26 mins
  • They’re Coming… But Where Will They Live? Australia’s Housing Time Bomb

    They’re Coming… But Where Will They Live? Australia’s Housing Time Bomb
    Jun 3 2025
    Imagine inviting thousands of people to a party… but forgetting to organise enough food, chairs, or bathrooms. That’s essentially what Australia is doing by ramping up migration while failing to plan for the housing and infrastructure to support it. The conversation around our housing crisis is often framed around interest rates, investors, or planning delays. But there’s a critical dimension we keep avoiding: Australia’s housing and migration policies are completely out of sync, and this is causing systemic damage. In today’s show we explain how the federal government controls migration and the states manage housing — and this is creating a perfect storm of housing unaffordability, rental stress, and infrastructure bottlenecks. Takeaways · Housing and immigration policies must be aligned for effective planning. · Australia's migration intake has surged, impacting housing demand. · Government policies contribute significantly to housing unaffordability. · Local governments often block new housing developments due to community pushback. · The current housing crisis is a result of decades of neglect in planning. · Reforming property taxes could alleviate housing affordability issues. · Infrastructure planning is crucial to support population growth. · Lessons from other countries can inform Australia's housing strategy. · The political landscape complicates major housing reforms. · A comprehensive approach is needed to address the housing crisis. Chapters 00:10 Introduction to Housing and Migration Policies 06:11 The Role of Property Developers 14:04 Housing Needs of New Migrants 18:50 Redesigning Housing and Migration Policies 23:20 Lessons from Other Countries 27:24 The Future of Housing and Migration in Australia 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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    37 mins
  • Sea Change, Suburbia, and Survival: Australia's New Demographic Divide

    Sea Change, Suburbia, and Survival: Australia's New Demographic Divide
    May 27 2025
    Australia is growing fast. And while we’re used to thinking about our population huddling around the edges of this vast continent, new data from the Demographics Group shows the blowtorch of growth is now concentrated in just a handful of places — and that’s raising some big questions about the future of our towns, cities, and the services we all rely on. Over the past decade, we’ve added 3.7 million extra people, but that growth hasn’t been evenly spread — some areas are booming while others are slowly hollowing out. In today’s show we discuss the significant demographic changes occurring in Australia, focusing on population growth, the challenges faced by regional towns, and the implications for property investors and businesses. We explore the concentration of growth in major cities, the decline of rural areas, and the potential for revitalization through targeted migration and government strategies. The conversation highlights the need for a national demographic strategy to address these issues and ensure a balanced future for all regions. Takeaways · Australia's population has grown by 3.7 million in the last decade. · 80% of population growth occurred in the five largest cities. · Infrastructure development is lagging behind population growth in our big cities. · Regional towns are losing population due to a lack of jobs. · Aging populations in rural areas are creating staffing shortages. · Migration policies need to be more targeted to support regional areas. · Social cohesion is at risk due to the divide between urban and rural populations. · Future planning is essential to manage demographic changes effectively. Chapters 00:10 Introduction to Australia's Demographic Trends 01:15 Population Growth Concentration in Major Cities 03:58 Challenges Facing Regional Towns 07:01 Potential for Revitalizing Rural Areas 10:15 The Role of Migration in Addressing Aging Population 13:05 Government Strategies for Regional Vitalization 15:13 Emerging Growth Hotspots in Australia 17:56 Two-Speed Economy: Urban vs. Rural 20:54 Future Planning for Population Growth 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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    25 mins
  • The truth about Australian manufacturing will surprise you!

    The truth about Australian manufacturing will surprise you!
    May 20 2025
    Most Australians believe that manufacturing in Australia is dead, but after today’s show you will realise manufacturing isn’t just surviving, it’s entering a new year of growth and innovation. In today’s show Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the evolving landscape of Australian manufacturing and debunk the myth that it is dead. We explore the current state of the industry, the impact of automation and technology, and the importance of government support and energy policy. The conversation also touches on regional development, housing solutions, and emerging trends that could shape the future of manufacturing in Australia. Takeaways · Manufacturing in Australia is not dead; it's evolving. · The workforce in manufacturing is still significant, despite a decline in percentage. · Automation and technology are reshaping manufacturing jobs. · Energy policy is crucial for the future of manufacturing. · There are opportunities for high-tech and value-added manufacturing. · Regional development can alleviate housing challenges. · Government support is needed to make energy cheaper. · The pandemic highlighted the need for local manufacturing of essential goods. · Emerging trends include pharmaceuticals and biotech manufacturing. · Consumer demands are driving changes in manufacturing practices. Chapters 00:10 The State of Australian Manufacturing 03:16 Shifts in Workforce Dynamics 05:55 Global Trade and Manufacturing Efficiency 09:09 The Future of Manufacturing Jobs 12:15 Value-Added Manufacturing Opportunities 15:01 High-Tech Manufacturing and Innovation 18:03 Sustainability in Manufacturing 21:17 Regional Manufacturing Potential 23:59 Government's Role in Manufacturing 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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    27 mins
  • Boomers Took All the Good Properties, How Can Gen Y & Z Can Fight Back and Win?

    Boomers Took All the Good Properties, How Can Gen Y & Z Can Fight Back and Win?
    May 13 2025
    Have you ever felt like you’re playing a game of property monopoly in Australia, but someone else got to pass “Go” decades before you and now owns half the board, you’re not imagining it. That “someone else”? It's the Baby Boomers. They’ve won the property game in Australia. In today’s show we discuss with the generational wealth disparities in the Australian property market, focusing on the advantages that Baby Boomers have had over younger generations. We explore the impact of cultural shifts, the role of the Bank of Mum and Dad, and the emerging trend of rent-vesting as a strategy for younger Australians. The conversation also touches on the need for policy changes to support future generations in achieving home ownership and financial stability. Takeaways · Baby boomers have a significant advantage in property ownership. · Younger generations face higher debt levels and housing costs. · Cultural shifts have changed expectations around home ownership. · The Bank of Mum and Dad plays a crucial role in helping younger buyers. · Rent-vesting is becoming a popular strategy for young Australians. · Demographic insights can guide better policy decisions. · Policies should focus on increasing housing stock and affordability. · Generational wealth transfer is a key factor in property dynamics. · Understanding demographic trends is essential for future planning. · Every generation faces unique challenges based on their time. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Property Wealth Disparity 01:13 The Baby Boomer Advantage 03:21 Wealth Distribution and Debt Dynamics 06:50 Changing Expectations in Home Ownership 12:39 Generational Challenges and Delayed Family Life 15:53 The Squeeze on Generation X 18:52 The Role of the Bank of Mum and Dad 22:06 Emerging Trends: Rent-Vesting 23:53 Advising Policymakers for Future Generations 25:44 Recommendations for Housing Policy Links and Resources:     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 mins
  • The Hidden Numbers: What Putin Fears Most About Russian Demographics!

    The Hidden Numbers: What Putin Fears Most About Russian Demographics!
    May 6 2025
    The war between Russia and Ukraine has dominated the news for quite some time a few years ago, and then it was slowly relegated to old news section until more recently with Donald Trump’s involvement. In today’s podcast, Simon Kuestenmacher shares some interesting demographic statistics that help us understand what's going on over there and Vladimir Putin’s game plan. Takeaways · Demographics play a crucial role in understanding geopolitical events. · Russia's military spending is significantly higher than many countries but much of it is wasted through corruption. · The economic output of Russia is comparable to Australia despite its population being around 6 times the size. · Young Russians are fleeing the country due to the war and economic conditions. · Putin's ambitions are driven by a desire to restore Russia's former power. · The aging population in Russia presents long-term economic challenges. · Migration is not a viable solution for Russia's demographic issues like in other countries. · The war in Ukraine has strengthened Ukrainian nationalism. · Understanding demographics is essential for strategic planning in any context. Chapters 00:10 Introduction to Demographics and War 02:58 Russia's Military Spending and Economic Context 06:30 Putin's Strategic Timing and Demographics 10:41 The Impact of Alcohol on Russian Society 15:29 Long-term Challenges for Russia's Demographics 19:34 The Future of Russia and Geopolitical Implications 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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    24 mins
  • This is Why Australia needs a Demographic Strategy

    This is Why Australia needs a Demographic Strategy
    Apr 29 2025
    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.
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    32 mins
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