At the end of last year, Simon Kuestenmacher published a detailed set of demographic predictions about Australia's future – covering everything from migration and ageing, to housing affordability, consumer behaviour and where population growth would show up.

 

And instead of quietly moving on, he's come back twelve months later to mark his own homework.

 

Today, we discuss the accuracy of his forecasts related to migration, fertility rates, political trends, and the property market.

 

We also explore how societal changes, such as aging populations and consumer behavior, impact various sectors, including housing and car sales.

 

You'll learn the importance of understanding long-term demographic trends amidst short-term chaos, providing insights for business owners and investors.

 

Takeaways 

 

·         The world feels chaotic, but demographic trends are stable.

·         Demographic predictions can provide accountability and insights.

·         Third party voting is on the rise in Australia.

·         Understanding migration data is crucial for accurate forecasts.

·         Falling fertility rates are linked to economic optimism.

·         Greenfield areas are growing faster than infill developments.

·         First home buyers are delaying purchases due to various factors.

·         Australia's population is aging, impacting future planning.

·         Consumer behaviour is affecting car sales trends.

·         Mental health issues are becoming more prominent in society.

 

Join Michael and Simon at Wealth Retreat 2026, where Australia's most ambitious investors and businesspeople gather to think bigger, invest smarter, and build intergenerational wealth.

MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: www.WealthRetreat.com.au

 

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.

 

Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Property Investment, Success and Money |The Michael Yardney Podcast. Just look for it wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: https://propertyupdate.com.au/category/michael-yardney-podcast/

Episode ID: 1000746893076

GUID: 48846ccf-fedf-4530-83af-4d8671770871

Release Date: 27/01/2026, 23:00:00