The Daily Aus The generation who can't afford kids
Sep 21, 2025
Dr. Inga Lass, a Senior Research Fellow with the HILDA Survey team, delves into the latest findings from the HILDA 20th report. She reveals how rising costs of living, such as housing and childcare, are leading to fewer young Australians considering parenthood. The pandemic's impact on friendships and social connections is profound, contributing to a mental health crisis. Despite these challenges, there are silver linings, like improved well-being from remote work, paving the way for future studies on social media and economic health.
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Fertility Intentions Have Fallen
- Desired fertility in Australia has declined over the past 20 years and mirrors falling birth rates.
- Fewer people now want three or more children while one-child or child-free preferences have grown to ~25%.
Costs Outweigh Emotion In Family Planning
- Financial concerns are increasingly shaping decisions about having children, outweighing emotional reasons.
- Rising housing costs and saving for down payments deter young people from starting families.
Childcare Costs Are A Major Barrier
- Childcare costs in Australia have risen substantially over the HILDA panel period and rank high internationally.
- These expenses pressure families because both parents often need paid work to afford living costs.