SBS News In Depth

The young Australians giving up on parenthood

SBS News In Depth

Show Notes

As cost-of-living bites, Australian sare delaying having children or reconsidering the traditional family unit altogether.

A new survey of two thousand Australians by AMP has found more than half of respondents in their 20s intend to have fewer children because of cost-of-living pressures. So as many reconsider parenthood, experts say it will have implications for the nation's future.

In this episode: AMP survey shows two-thirds of Australians in their 20s want a home before children Housing, inflation driving delay in procreation and half of survey respondents considering no children due to costs ABS: fertility hit low of 1.5 babies/ woman in 2024 Economists warn over declining fertility rate and broader socioeconomic impacts Advocates call for reforms to policy to make family life easier while maintaining careers SBS News in Depth is a news analysis podcast from SBS, going behind the headlines with reporting and interviews on the stories shaping Australia and the world.

Listen to more episodes of SBS News in Depth, and follow the show on the SBS Audio app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

For the latest news from Australia and around the world, visit SBS News and follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.

More from SBS News In Depth

Oct 22, 2026

Is the Liberal Party a sinking ship? Retiring senator Jonno Duniam faces questions on migration, visa delays and his party's future.

Oct 22, 2026

An alleged attack on well-loved regional MP Helen Haines leaves Australia grappling with the reality of political violence on its shores. We’re joined by SBS’ Canberra bureau to discuss the fallout for the community and the country’s political culture. Meanwhile, European cities are reeling from riots this week, especially across France. How will the unrest affect French presidential elections, and will it give Marine Le Pen’s right wing the edge it needs? We dive deep on what the US midterms mean for Trump’s presidency as campaigns ramp up. Plus, the unusual solution Chinese parents have found to deal with spoiled children.

Oct 22, 2026

In the Republican heartland of southwestern Arizona, growing disillusionment with Donald Trump is testing party loyalties ahead of the US midterm elections.

Oct 21, 2026

Authorities and security agencies are warning that online radicalisation is growing and becoming more accessible in the country.

Oct 21, 2026

Delays to power upgrades at NextDC's Melbourne site forced a sharp downgrade, raising questions for data centre investors.

See all episodes →