A new survey has found almost half of Aussies now believe they will never own a home.
A shocking new survey has found almost half of Aussies have given up hope of ever owning their own home, as the nation’s housing crisis reaches a devastating tipping point.
A new survey by national insurance provider Youi, found 46 per cent of Aussies did not think they will never be able to buy a home, with 42 per cent saying their financial situation had worsened in the past two years.
Shockingly, the Youi survey found a further 11 per cent said home ownership won’t be possible for them within the next 10 years and only 5 per cent felt confident they could buy a property this year.
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The results when asked which of the following best describes your financial situation now.
According to PropTrack’s latest housing affordability report, a typical Australian household can now afford just 15 per cent of homes sold across the country – down from 43 per cent only four years ago, when mortgage rates were at historic lows.
Among the biggest financial concerns raised in the Youi survey were managing daily expenses (61 per cent), housing costs (39 per cent) and savings levels (36 per cent).
Insurance (16 per cent) and gym memberships (17 per cent) were among the areas least likely to be cut, while discretionary spending was main target for most households looking to wind back costs.
Economic futurist and behavioural economist, Evan Lucas said financial pressure was reshaping how Australians think about money and wellbeing.
“Households are under strain, but they’re becoming more deliberate and vigilant with their money to protect what matters most,” he said.
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Among the biggest financial concerns raised in the Youi survey were managing daily expenses (61 per cent) and housing costs (39 per cent).
“The key to staying on top of your money is to know where it’s going – turn your reviews of fixed costs like phone, energy and internet, into a regular habit. Exercising discipline here can help identify potential areas of savings.”
Mr Lucas said “oftentimes people sign up for a service, and neglect to check whether there are cheaper options out there, a mistake that could be costing you”.
“Moving away from ‘set and forget’ and regularly reviewing fixed costs is one of the simplest ways to build financial strength.”
Youi chief customer officer, Anthony Antonucci said “Aussies are under real pressure, but we’re seeing a shift from reacting to costs to protecting what matters most”.
He said the firm’s new financial fitness calculator was designed to help take the first step towards reclaiming financial confidence and working towards financial goals this year.
“Our research shows that almost 80 per cent of Australians review their insurance spending annually, which is a great start, but far fewer, less than 40 per cent, say they are likely to review or switch their insurance provider in the next 12 months.”
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The results when asked what are your top financial goals for 2026..
“Many could be missing savings simply by not shopping around or comparing their options. With budget pressures impacting most households, affordability without compromising on your cover should be a priority. Take a look closely at your policy and make sure your insurance still fits your needs and budget.”
Of the one third of respondents who said their finances had improved in the past two years, almost half (44 per cent) said they achieved it by cutting expenses and budgeting.
A further 40 per cent improved their situation by changing their spending habits, while 36 per cent said they became more organised.
The top financial goals for 2026 were building savings (24 per cent), reducing expenses (20 per cent) and increasing income (13 per cent).
Practical steps Aussies can take now:
1. Schedule regular reviews of bills, subscriptions, services and credit cards to avoid ‘set and forget’ spending.
2. Automate savings so a portion of every pay goes straight into a dedicated account.
3. Prioritise paying down debt to reduce interest costs and lower financial stress.
4. Use digital tools (like Youi’s financial fitness calculator) and other resources to calculate spending, identify savings and stay focused on goals.
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