The Property Couch 572 | Can Everyone Still Own a Home? Bernard Salt on the New Divide
Nov 13, 2025
Bernard Salt, a leading Australian demographer and author of The Big Shift, dives into pressing topics reshaping Australia’s future. He discusses millennials' return to suburban living and the family's financial influence on property ownership. Bernard also explores how cultural shifts are changing home designs and the implications of AI on our economy. He raises critical questions about intergenerational wealth and calls for a national dialogue to discuss Australia’s trajectory by 2050. Expect insightful, data-driven takes sprinkled with humor!
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Millennials’ Post-Lego Housing Shift
- Millennials are shifting from inner-city apartmentia to seeking larger suburban "forever homes" as they enter their 40s and start families.
- Bernard calls this the "Lego factor": once kids arrive, priorities flip toward space and practicality.
From Teacher To Demographer
- Bernard describes his path from schoolteacher to demographer and consultant, driven by curiosity about cities and history.
- He credits speaking to shopping-centre owners for learning to tell demographic stories that matter to investors.
Test Demand Before Betting On Rail-Nodes
- Plan housing around realistic demand: rail-node medium density works only if it matches family preferences and lifecycle needs.
- Consider whether transport-node developments actually suit 40-something families seeking space before betting on them.
