New research by deomographer Bernard Salt reveals how fast broadband is set to overhaul the traditional work-rest-play lifestyle model

Have you stopped to wonder how those raised in the digital age will live and work in the future? The next generation of Aussies may never put in an uninterrupted eight-hour working day, watch a pre-programed TV show or aspire to live in a capital city, according to a new research report we launched today by respected Aussie demographer Bernard Salt.

Towards a super connected Australia* provides a unique insight into how cultural change and advancements in technology have helped transform the ‘Aussie way of life’.

The report identifies a new generation likely to emerge in the 2020s – GenNBN – the first generation of young Australians raised in a connected world powered by universal access to fast broadband.

Here’s some of the ways their lives may be different:

• Work will be completed in bursts of activity over a 24-hour timeframe rather than in the traditional nine-to-five ‘work day’.
• They could work for businesses or own new businesses, that connect globally-sourced products with local markets or that connect local products with international buyers.
• With access to more on-demand content they will watch the programs they want, when they want which may lead to the growth in micro and niche sports such as curling and hurling.
• They way they communicate with family and friends will be vastly different because of the universality of the internet and the scope to use technology like Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime, and other technology yet-to-be-invented.

The report delves into how access to fast broadband via the nbn™ network could overhaul the Aussie lifestyle across four themes; global connectivity, the world of work, home and household, and interests and leisure. We’ll be bringing you some more detail on each section over the coming month.

* Report commissioned by nbn.

For more information on the Towards a super connected Australia report visit nbn.com.au/gennbn