Are Cities Without Grandchildren Becoming a Reality?
The concept of cities without grandchildren is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in Sydney. Recent trends indicate that certain suburbs are experiencing significant demographic shifts. These changes could lead to a future with fewer young families and, consequently, fewer grandchildren.
Declining Birth Rates and School Closures
In Davidson, a suburb on Sydney’s northern beaches, Kambora Public School is set to close due to decreasing student enrolments. The decision by the Education Department reflects a broader trend of declining young families in the area. The stagnation of housing development further exacerbates this issue.
The local Catholic diocese has also responded to changing demographics. The Catholic Schools Broken Bay has chosen to merge St Cecilia’s Primary at Balgowlah with St Kieran’s Manly Vale. This decision aims to address rising demand for schools in the Central Coast, where many Sydney residents priced out of the city have relocated in recent years.
Childcare Centers at Risk
Declining birth rates are not limited to schools. In the inner-city suburb of Millers Point, a long-standing childcare center, KU Lance, will close this year. The center reported low attendance, sometimes having only six children despite a capacity of 39. Changes in local demographics due to public housing clearances have made the area less viable for families, as financial pressures mount.
Falling Birth Rates Across Sydney
Birth rates have significantly decreased in several Sydney areas. In the eastern suburbs, north shore, northern beaches, and inner west, births have fallen by 20% or more. In stark contrast, some western Sydney regions, including Blacktown, Cumberland, and Macarthur, continue to see higher birth rates.
- Overall fertility rate decline in inner suburbs.
- Averaging more than two births per woman in some western suburbs.
- Parents are actively seeking childcare placements, often joining waitlists during pregnancy.
The Affordable Housing Crisis
Affordability is a significant driver behind these trends. Research from Anglicare Sydney highlights that only 1% of Sydney’s properties are affordable for essential workers, including teachers and healthcare professionals. An affordable rental is defined as costing no more than 30% of a worker’s income.
This housing crisis compels families to move further away from the city center than past generations. The struggle for adequate accommodation pushes families to the outskirts of Sydney, leading to a demographic shift that could result in cities devoid of grandchildren.
Conclusion
The juxtaposition of declining birth rates in central Sydney and the growing populations in outer suburbs indicates a concerning trend. If these patterns continue, cities like Sydney may indeed face a future without grandchildren, reshaping the urban landscape for generations to come.
