Gen Z - they've never known a world without smartphones. They grew up through a pandemic.

And they're entering adulthood at a time when housing feels further out of reach than ever.

But here's what most people miss.

Generation Z is already reshaping how we work, how we spend, and how we think about money, and their influence is only just beginning.

If you're trying to understand the future of Australia's property market, workforce, and economy, this is a generation you need to get your head around now.

So in this episode, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss Generation Z's influence on society and the economy.

We explore how Gen Z's digital upbringing shapes their perspectives and behaviors in the workforce.

Simon and I discuss the challenges they face, including mental health and housing affordability and analyse their spending habits and how they prioritise experiences over material possessions.

Join us as we uncover insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape shaped by Gen Z.

Takeaways

· Gen Z's digital upbringing shapes their global perspectives.

· Social media impacts Gen Z's mental health significantly.

· Gen Z's career choices are driven by strategic leverage.

· Economic realities can overshadow Gen Z's environmental activism.

· Gen Z influences political and technological agendas.

· Their demand for algorithm control will drive digital governance changes.

· Gen Z's interconnected worldview requires global-local communication strategies.

· Meaningful work environments can improve Gen Z's mental health.

· Gen Z's job stability is more about housing affordability than disloyalty.

· Global issues are deeply personal to Gen Z.

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

MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: https://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 LinkedIn 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 LinkedIn 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 & Wealth Creation Australia | 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.

About Demographics Decoded

Demographics drive economic performance, workforce participation and long-term prosperity.

Demographics Decoded explores:

• Workforce participation trends Australia

• Labour shortages and skills gaps

• Productivity and economic growth

• Urbanisation and employment hubs

• Small business and demographic demand

• The future of work in Australia

• Education, skills and economic mobility

• Regional economic development

If you're a business owner, investor or decision maker who wants to anticipate structural change rather than react to headlines, this podcast gives you the demographic intelligence to stay ahead.

Explore more insights at:https://demographicsdecoded.com.au