DiscoverDemographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your futureWhy Australia’s Middle Class is Shrinking – and What It Means for You
Why Australia’s Middle Class is Shrinking – and What It Means for You

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

Update: 2025-09-23
Share

Description

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

<p class="MsoNormal" s
Comments 
loading
In Channel
loading
00:00
00:00
1.0x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

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

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

Michael Yardney