As generations come and go, each one faces its unique set of challenges, and it's clear that the old saying 'the grass is always greener on the other side' still rings true.

But when it comes to the battle of who had it harder - the 'baby boomers' or today's younger generations - the debate rages on.

Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, grew up against a background of the Vietnam War, space exploration and a man walking on the moon, and the introduction of the decimal currency.

On the other hand, younger generations today are grappling with climate change, political polarisation, and a pandemic that has disrupted every aspect of life.

​

When the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the tenth consecutive month, many older Australians reminisced about the economic hardships they endured during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Interest rates skyrocketed to an unprecedented 18% in 1989, causing widespread financial distress and pushing many individuals and families to the brink of bankruptcy.

To gauge the opinions of the Baby Boomer generation, the Daily Mail Australia surveyed residents of Cronulla, a suburb located in the Sutherland Shire area of Sydney. Here's what some of them had to say:

Each generation faces its own unique set of obstacles, whether it be social, economic, or environmental. Credit: Unsplash/Matt Bennett.

Chris, a retired firefighter who swims several kilometres every day and shares a large two-story home in Cronulla with nine family members, has a unique perspective on the struggles of different generations.

Despite buying his first home at the age of 28, Chris recalls the challenges he faced and believes that younger generations can learn from the past.

Chris worked two jobs for thirty years, starting as a beach lifeguard before transitioning to four days of shift work as a firefighter, followed by another four days at a factory. He admits that life was not easy, and his generation had to scratch and struggle for money.

When asked for his advice to younger generations, Chris emphasises the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that working two or three jobs, if necessary, can help individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

'Life isn't easy: it wasn't easy for us then, and it isn't easy for them now,' he said.

Chris's advice to younger generations is to work hard and even to work two or three jobs if necessary. Credit: Unsplash/Rodeo Project Management Software.

He does, however, acknowledge that younger generations have different challenges to overcome.

In his opinion, the younger generations have more distractions, such as smartphones and other gadgets, which can sometimes make it harder to focus on work and achieve their goals.

'They have got it harder in ways because there are more toys to play with. It's just a fact of life,' he went on to say. 'In our days, you didn't have bugger all. You didn't carry around a phone with you or have a big flashy bloody watch.'

He believes that younger generations should seek inspiration from the past and learn from the experiences of previous generations to help them navigate the challenges of the present and the future.

In the end, Chris believes that hard work and dedication are the keys to success, no matter what generation you come from. While each generation faces its own unique set of challenges, there is always something to be learned from those who came before us.

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. Credit: Unsplash/Sven Mieke.

Marlene Vale, a 73-year-old retired advertising worker, believes that buying off the plan was an excellent way for her to get into the property market. She bought a two-bedroom apartment in Sutherland, south Sydney, in 1994, and she still calls it home.

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. She advises millennials and Gen Zs to work hard within their means and not be afraid to take on debt to buy a property off the plan and rent it out until they can eventually own it outright.

Ms Vale rejects the notion that the younger generation have odds stacked against them, and she argues that there are many younger people who are positive about owning their own homes. In fact, her two children, who are in their fifties, have already bought properties.

But she also acknowledges that younger generations face several challenges, including the cost of living, childcare, and technology.

'Years ago, things didn't go up every year - you've got your water, electricity, gas. And also, in today's world, you've got all the technology too,' she went on to say.

She understands that younger people's priorities, such as taking holiday trips, may sometimes take precedence, but she advises them to save up for their future. She said: 'I think in today's world, young people want it all at once. That's not how life is. You've got to save. A lot of younger people prioritise holidays.'

In the end, Ms Vale believes that younger generations can overcome these challenges by working hard within their means and taking advantage of opportunities such as buying property.

While the struggles faced by younger generations today are different from those of the past, with determination and hard work, they too can achieve their goals and build a better future for themselves.

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos believe that it was easier to buy a house in their generation than it is for younger generations now. Credit: Unsplash/Nikoline Arns.

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos, who are self-described Baby Boomers, believe that it was easier to buy a house back in their day than it is now. They feel sympathetic towards the younger generation, who are struggling with exorbitant housing prices.

Michael said that houses back then cost ten times less than they do now. He also pointed out that interest rates were high, around 11-12 per cent, but the properties were only a fraction of the price.

The couple first bought a house in their early twenties and managed to pay it off, even with interest rates at 17 per cent, with a wage of $200. They said that they feel lucky to have their own home and think that young people should also have the opportunity to own a property and live a modest lifestyle without having to rely on landlords.

Caroline, who is retired and makes embroidered logos for companies, said that their nieces and nephews are struggling to buy a house. They believe that young people need to work hard and save money, as they did back in their day, to achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways

• The debate on who had it harder — the 'Baby Boomers' or the younger generation — remains ongoing.
• Baby Boomers remember their struggles, including high-interest rates, while Millennials and Gen Z face climate change and a pandemic.
• Despite the differences, both generations acknowledge the challenges of their time and offer advice to work hard and within one's means.

Members, what do you think about the debate between the baby boomers and younger generations? Do you agree that younger generations have it harder, or do you believe that each generation has its unique set of challenges?

What advice do you have for younger generations who are struggling to navigate the challenges of today's world, such as the high cost of housing? Please share your stories and experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

 

[Mary1955]

I worked 2 jobs all the while I helped my 4 boys become great men. We never had a government pay us to stay at home.

 

[Danvers]

As generations come and go, each one faces its unique set of challenges, and it's clear that the old saying 'the grass is always greener on the other side' still rings true.

But when it comes to the battle of who had it harder - the 'baby boomers' or today's younger generations - the debate rages on.

Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, grew up against a background of the Vietnam War, space exploration and a man walking on the moon, and the introduction of the decimal currency.

On the other hand, younger generations today are grappling with climate change, political polarisation, and a pandemic that has disrupted every aspect of life.

View attachment 16842​

When the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the tenth consecutive month, many older Australians reminisced about the economic hardships they endured during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Interest rates skyrocketed to an unprecedented 18% in 1989, causing widespread financial distress and pushing many individuals and families to the brink of bankruptcy.

To gauge the opinions of the Baby Boomer generation, the Daily Mail Australia surveyed residents of Cronulla, a suburb located in the Sutherland Shire area of Sydney. Here's what some of them had to say:

View attachment 16838

Each generation faces its own unique set of obstacles, whether it be social, economic, or environmental. Credit: Unsplash/Matt Bennett.

Chris, a retired firefighter who swims several kilometres every day and shares a large two-story home in Cronulla with nine family members, has a unique perspective on the struggles of different generations.

Despite buying his first home at the age of 28, Chris recalls the challenges he faced and believes that younger generations can learn from the past.

Chris worked two jobs for thirty years, starting as a beach lifeguard before transitioning to four days of shift work as a firefighter, followed by another four days at a factory. He admits that life was not easy, and his generation had to scratch and struggle for money.

When asked for his advice to younger generations, Chris emphasises the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that working two or three jobs, if necessary, can help individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

'Life isn't easy: it wasn't easy for us then, and it isn't easy for them now,' he said.

View attachment 16839

Chris's advice to younger generations is to work hard and even to work two or three jobs if necessary. Credit: Unsplash/Rodeo Project Management Software.

He does, however, acknowledge that younger generations have different challenges to overcome.

In his opinion, the younger generations have more distractions, such as smartphones and other gadgets, which can sometimes make it harder to focus on work and achieve their goals.

'They have got it harder in ways because there are more toys to play with. It's just a fact of life,' he went on to say. 'In our days, you didn't have bugger all. You didn't carry around a phone with you or have a big flashy bloody watch.'

He believes that younger generations should seek inspiration from the past and learn from the experiences of previous generations to help them navigate the challenges of the present and the future.

In the end, Chris believes that hard work and dedication are the keys to success, no matter what generation you come from. While each generation faces its own unique set of challenges, there is always something to be learned from those who came before us.

View attachment 16840

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. Credit: Unsplash/Sven Mieke.

Marlene Vale, a 73-year-old retired advertising worker, believes that buying off the plan was an excellent way for her to get into the property market. She bought a two-bedroom apartment in Sutherland, south Sydney, in 1994, and she still calls it home.

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. She advises millennials and Gen Zs to work hard within their means and not be afraid to take on debt to buy a property off the plan and rent it out until they can eventually own it outright.

Ms Vale rejects the notion that the younger generation have odds stacked against them, and she argues that there are many younger people who are positive about owning their own homes. In fact, her two children, who are in their fifties, have already bought properties.

But she also acknowledges that younger generations face several challenges, including the cost of living, childcare, and technology.

'Years ago, things didn't go up every year - you've got your water, electricity, gas. And also, in today's world, you've got all the technology too,' she went on to say.

She understands that younger people's priorities, such as taking holiday trips, may sometimes take precedence, but she advises them to save up for their future. She said: 'I think in today's world, young people want it all at once. That's not how life is. You've got to save. A lot of younger people prioritise holidays.'

In the end, Ms Vale believes that younger generations can overcome these challenges by working hard within their means and taking advantage of opportunities such as buying property.

While the struggles faced by younger generations today are different from those of the past, with determination and hard work, they too can achieve their goals and build a better future for themselves.

View attachment 16841

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos believe that it was easier to buy a house in their generation than it is for younger generations now. Credit: Unsplash/Nikoline Arns.

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos, who are self-described Baby Boomers, believe that it was easier to buy a house back in their day than it is now. They feel sympathetic towards the younger generation, who are struggling with exorbitant housing prices.

Michael said that houses back then cost ten times less than they do now. He also pointed out that interest rates were high, around 11-12 per cent, but the properties were only a fraction of the price.

The couple first bought a house in their early twenties and managed to pay it off, even with interest rates at 17 per cent, with a wage of $200. They said that they feel lucky to have their own home and think that young people should also have the opportunity to own a property and live a modest lifestyle without having to rely on landlords.

Caroline, who is retired and makes embroidered logos for companies, said that their nieces and nephews are struggling to buy a house. They believe that young people need to work hard and save money, as they did back in their day, to achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways

• The debate on who had it harder — the 'Baby Boomers' or the younger generation — remains ongoing.
• Baby Boomers remember their struggles, including high-interest rates, while Millennials and Gen Z face climate change and a pandemic.
• Despite the differences, both generations acknowledge the challenges of their time and offer advice to work hard and within one's means.

Members, what do you think about the debate between the baby boomers and younger generations? Do you agree that younger generations have it harder, or do you believe that each generation has its unique set of challenges?

What advice do you have for younger generations who are struggling to navigate the challenges of today's world, such as the high cost of housing? Please share your stories and experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

 

[mylittletibbies]

It doesn't matter what generation it is, the answer is work hard and save.
When you're young you think old age is a long way off, you'd be surprised how quick it creeps up on you.
If you don't take advantage of your younger years to start, and continuing saving and don't have your own home by retirement then life will be very hard.
I worked 3 or sometimes 4 jobs when I was young. Try to find jobs that are also enjoyment. For example I owned a horse which was agisted at a riding school. On the weekends I would take the rides out for the owner,. Enabling Me to enjoy my hobby and at the same time make some extra cash.
My husband and I also spent ,3 months on a property picking tomatoes. Back breaking work and we were the only ones that stuck out the season but by then we had a substantial deposit and trotted off and put a deposit on our first home.
Yes homes were much cheaper then and when I worked at my normal job (secretarial work) my salary was $48 a week and that was considered top dollar in those days.

I worked 2 jobs all the while I helped my 4 boys become great men. We never had a government pay us to stay at home.

 

[Isis]

As generations come and go, each one faces its unique set of challenges, and it's clear that the old saying 'the grass is always greener on the other side' still rings true.

But when it comes to the battle of who had it harder - the 'baby boomers' or today's younger generations - the debate rages on.

Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, grew up against a background of the Vietnam War, space exploration and a man walking on the moon, and the introduction of the decimal currency.

On the other hand, younger generations today are grappling with climate change, political polarisation, and a pandemic that has disrupted every aspect of life.

View attachment 16842​

When the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the tenth consecutive month, many older Australians reminisced about the economic hardships they endured during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Interest rates skyrocketed to an unprecedented 18% in 1989, causing widespread financial distress and pushing many individuals and families to the brink of bankruptcy.

To gauge the opinions of the Baby Boomer generation, the Daily Mail Australia surveyed residents of Cronulla, a suburb located in the Sutherland Shire area of Sydney. Here's what some of them had to say:

View attachment 16838

Each generation faces its own unique set of obstacles, whether it be social, economic, or environmental. Credit: Unsplash/Matt Bennett.

Chris, a retired firefighter who swims several kilometres every day and shares a large two-story home in Cronulla with nine family members, has a unique perspective on the struggles of different generations.

Despite buying his first home at the age of 28, Chris recalls the challenges he faced and believes that younger generations can learn from the past.

Chris worked two jobs for thirty years, starting as a beach lifeguard before transitioning to four days of shift work as a firefighter, followed by another four days at a factory. He admits that life was not easy, and his generation had to scratch and struggle for money.

When asked for his advice to younger generations, Chris emphasises the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that working two or three jobs, if necessary, can help individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

'Life isn't easy: it wasn't easy for us then, and it isn't easy for them now,' he said.

View attachment 16839

Chris's advice to younger generations is to work hard and even to work two or three jobs if necessary. Credit: Unsplash/Rodeo Project Management Software.

He does, however, acknowledge that younger generations have different challenges to overcome.

In his opinion, the younger generations have more distractions, such as smartphones and other gadgets, which can sometimes make it harder to focus on work and achieve their goals.

'They have got it harder in ways because there are more toys to play with. It's just a fact of life,' he went on to say. 'In our days, you didn't have bugger all. You didn't carry around a phone with you or have a big flashy bloody watch.'

He believes that younger generations should seek inspiration from the past and learn from the experiences of previous generations to help them navigate the challenges of the present and the future.

In the end, Chris believes that hard work and dedication are the keys to success, no matter what generation you come from. While each generation faces its own unique set of challenges, there is always something to be learned from those who came before us.

View attachment 16840

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. Credit: Unsplash/Sven Mieke.

Marlene Vale, a 73-year-old retired advertising worker, believes that buying off the plan was an excellent way for her to get into the property market. She bought a two-bedroom apartment in Sutherland, south Sydney, in 1994, and she still calls it home.

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. She advises millennials and Gen Zs to work hard within their means and not be afraid to take on debt to buy a property off the plan and rent it out until they can eventually own it outright.

Ms Vale rejects the notion that the younger generation have odds stacked against them, and she argues that there are many younger people who are positive about owning their own homes. In fact, her two children, who are in their fifties, have already bought properties.

But she also acknowledges that younger generations face several challenges, including the cost of living, childcare, and technology.

'Years ago, things didn't go up every year - you've got your water, electricity, gas. And also, in today's world, you've got all the technology too,' she went on to say.

She understands that younger people's priorities, such as taking holiday trips, may sometimes take precedence, but she advises them to save up for their future. She said: 'I think in today's world, young people want it all at once. That's not how life is. You've got to save. A lot of younger people prioritise holidays.'

In the end, Ms Vale believes that younger generations can overcome these challenges by working hard within their means and taking advantage of opportunities such as buying property.

While the struggles faced by younger generations today are different from those of the past, with determination and hard work, they too can achieve their goals and build a better future for themselves.

View attachment 16841

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos believe that it was easier to buy a house in their generation than it is for younger generations now. Credit: Unsplash/Nikoline Arns.

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos, who are self-described Baby Boomers, believe that it was easier to buy a house back in their day than it is now. They feel sympathetic towards the younger generation, who are struggling with exorbitant housing prices.

Michael said that houses back then cost ten times less than they do now. He also pointed out that interest rates were high, around 11-12 per cent, but the properties were only a fraction of the price.

The couple first bought a house in their early twenties and managed to pay it off, even with interest rates at 17 per cent, with a wage of $200. They said that they feel lucky to have their own home and think that young people should also have the opportunity to own a property and live a modest lifestyle without having to rely on landlords.

Caroline, who is retired and makes embroidered logos for companies, said that their nieces and nephews are struggling to buy a house. They believe that young people need to work hard and save money, as they did back in their day, to achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways

• The debate on who had it harder — the 'Baby Boomers' or the younger generation — remains ongoing.
• Baby Boomers remember their struggles, including high-interest rates, while Millennials and Gen Z face climate change and a pandemic.
• Despite the differences, both generations acknowledge the challenges of their time and offer advice to work hard and within one's means.

Members, what do you think about the debate between the baby boomers and younger generations? Do you agree that younger generations have it harder, or do you believe that each generation has its unique set of challenges?

What advice do you have for younger generations who are struggling to navigate the challenges of today's world, such as the high cost of housing? Please share your stories and experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

Every generation has its problems, remember 18% interest. But I remember being told once that your broken legs hurts more than someone with two broken legs, simply because the pain is yours. My grandchildren work very hard but have support from family to help with their children.
We no longer have neighbours that are like family, I knew if I was away and it rained my washing would be brought in. If they were sick I would do their shopping.
Given a few more years and todays generation will be asking the same question, ‘Twas ever thus,

 

[Macarj]

I think all generations have issues and things they have to deal with, I don't feel I had a hard life ( born in 1956)

 

[DLN]

Well, this is one of my favourite expressions: "I'm glad I was born when I was born". I would not like to be born today into the way the world is going. I liked the simple way of life of my youth. Life today is so complicated; it is almost impossible to live a life of simplicity. There is so much technology that we are now forced to use and so many distractions from real life that most people now participate in: social media, online gaming, etc. that blind us to what is happening in the world. Even education standards in our schools are not what they were in our generations - this is quite apparent when younger people enter the job market: poor writing and grammar in emails and the inability to focus on the job without looking at Facebook on their phones every 10 minutes. Consumerism is so important to them - they want everything today instead of saving up for things like we did. I do feel sorry for these new generations. There are now more mental health issues, confusion, fear, worry about the future of the world and deteriorating health due to glyposates and additives in our food and chemicals in our drinking water and in the air. You know what? I'm so glad I was born when I was born!

 

[Chul]

I worked very hard and struggled to earn the money and to survive daily after immigrated in Australia in 1986, however current my life is so much relaxing and easy financially, emotionally and psychologically. I am still enjoying the work as a casual.

 

[Colette 3799]

I dont think life was any easier when I was growing up but it was definitely much simpler lol

 

[Mina vriesekolk]

I worked hard all my life , saved up as much as I could , never bought anything I could not afford . That’s why I am today a self funded retiree.
My parents were always good savers and passed that on to me. Now my son is the same and living quite comfortably , I can not say the same of my daughter unfortunately .
I think some of the younger generation do not have any value for what people have saved up for. The youth crime is out of control and they get hardly punished .

 

[Nana Zorak]

Well, this is one of my favourite expressions: "I'm glad I was born when I was born". I would not like to be born today into the way the world is going. I liked the simple way of life of my youth. Life today is so complicated; it is almost impossible to live a life of simplicity. There is so much technology that we are now forced to use and so many distractions from real life that most people now participate in: social media, online gaming, etc. that blind us to what is happening in the world. Even education standards in our schools are not what they were in our generations - this is quite apparent when younger people enter the job market: poor writing and grammar in emails and the inability to focus on the job without looking at Facebook on their phones every 10 minutes. Consumerism is so important to them - they want everything today instead of saving up for things like we did. I do feel sorry for these new generations. There are now more mental health issues, confusion, fear, worry about the future of the world and deteriorating health due to glyposates and additives in our food and chemicals in our drinking water and in the air. You know what? I'm so glad I was born when I was born!

DLN> Me too as a pre-war baby I had a 2nd war to go through from which I developed PTSD. or Shell shock as it was known after the 1st World War. I luckily recovered but not until I was 38. I am glad that I had the chance to come to this wonderful country when I was 27 with my then-husband & 4-year-old son. We bought our first house in Cairns 2 years after getting here. Although I lost the house & the money that had paid the deposit when left my husband some 12 years later. In those days there was no siding from the court for a run-away wife who had left because of mental strain & mental abuse. My son even asked why I hadn't left him sooner as he knew what I went through. I am now single & in my middle 80s & have outlived all my family & friends but I am still so glad that I was born when I was born.

 

[starrysnan]

Life is hard no matter when you were born. In 1965 when I was 12 my parents decided to move to Australia from UK and both worked hard to raise three children. We were ordinary working people and they both had a positive work ethic which they passed down to us. When they retired they had saved enough to buy a house on the Central Coast and it was their pride and joy. Mum said they would never have been able to buy a home in England. So no matter where you live or when you were born there are good and bad things and it takes hard work and determination to get through. My 4 year old granddaughter thinks it 's very funny that I didn't have a mobile phone or computer when I was young but we managed didn't we?

 

[Kelpie]

As generations come and go, each one faces its unique set of challenges, and it's clear that the old saying 'the grass is always greener on the other side' still rings true.

But when it comes to the battle of who had it harder - the 'baby boomers' or today's younger generations - the debate rages on.

Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, grew up against a background of the Vietnam War, space exploration and a man walking on the moon, and the introduction of the decimal currency.

On the other hand, younger generations today are grappling with climate change, political polarisation, and a pandemic that has disrupted every aspect of life.

View attachment 16842​

When the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the tenth consecutive month, many older Australians reminisced about the economic hardships they endured during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Interest rates skyrocketed to an unprecedented 18% in 1989, causing widespread financial distress and pushing many individuals and families to the brink of bankruptcy.

To gauge the opinions of the Baby Boomer generation, the Daily Mail Australia surveyed residents of Cronulla, a suburb located in the Sutherland Shire area of Sydney. Here's what some of them had to say:

View attachment 16838

Each generation faces its own unique set of obstacles, whether it be social, economic, or environmental. Credit: Unsplash/Matt Bennett.

Chris, a retired firefighter who swims several kilometres every day and shares a large two-story home in Cronulla with nine family members, has a unique perspective on the struggles of different generations.

Despite buying his first home at the age of 28, Chris recalls the challenges he faced and believes that younger generations can learn from the past.

Chris worked two jobs for thirty years, starting as a beach lifeguard before transitioning to four days of shift work as a firefighter, followed by another four days at a factory. He admits that life was not easy, and his generation had to scratch and struggle for money.

When asked for his advice to younger generations, Chris emphasises the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that working two or three jobs, if necessary, can help individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

'Life isn't easy: it wasn't easy for us then, and it isn't easy for them now,' he said.

View attachment 16839

Chris's advice to younger generations is to work hard and even to work two or three jobs if necessary. Credit: Unsplash/Rodeo Project Management Software.

He does, however, acknowledge that younger generations have different challenges to overcome.

In his opinion, the younger generations have more distractions, such as smartphones and other gadgets, which can sometimes make it harder to focus on work and achieve their goals.

'They have got it harder in ways because there are more toys to play with. It's just a fact of life,' he went on to say. 'In our days, you didn't have bugger all. You didn't carry around a phone with you or have a big flashy bloody watch.'

He believes that younger generations should seek inspiration from the past and learn from the experiences of previous generations to help them navigate the challenges of the present and the future.

In the end, Chris believes that hard work and dedication are the keys to success, no matter what generation you come from. While each generation faces its own unique set of challenges, there is always something to be learned from those who came before us.

View attachment 16840

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. Credit: Unsplash/Sven Mieke.

Marlene Vale, a 73-year-old retired advertising worker, believes that buying off the plan was an excellent way for her to get into the property market. She bought a two-bedroom apartment in Sutherland, south Sydney, in 1994, and she still calls it home.

According to Ms Vale, while people faced struggles in the past, buying off the plan was a way for many to enter the property market. She advises millennials and Gen Zs to work hard within their means and not be afraid to take on debt to buy a property off the plan and rent it out until they can eventually own it outright.

Ms Vale rejects the notion that the younger generation have odds stacked against them, and she argues that there are many younger people who are positive about owning their own homes. In fact, her two children, who are in their fifties, have already bought properties.

But she also acknowledges that younger generations face several challenges, including the cost of living, childcare, and technology.

'Years ago, things didn't go up every year - you've got your water, electricity, gas. And also, in today's world, you've got all the technology too,' she went on to say.

She understands that younger people's priorities, such as taking holiday trips, may sometimes take precedence, but she advises them to save up for their future. She said: 'I think in today's world, young people want it all at once. That's not how life is. You've got to save. A lot of younger people prioritise holidays.'

In the end, Ms Vale believes that younger generations can overcome these challenges by working hard within their means and taking advantage of opportunities such as buying property.

While the struggles faced by younger generations today are different from those of the past, with determination and hard work, they too can achieve their goals and build a better future for themselves.

View attachment 16841

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos believe that it was easier to buy a house in their generation than it is for younger generations now. Credit: Unsplash/Nikoline Arns.

Michael and Caroline Kalokerinos, who are self-described Baby Boomers, believe that it was easier to buy a house back in their day than it is now. They feel sympathetic towards the younger generation, who are struggling with exorbitant housing prices.

Michael said that houses back then cost ten times less than they do now. He also pointed out that interest rates were high, around 11-12 per cent, but the properties were only a fraction of the price.

The couple first bought a house in their early twenties and managed to pay it off, even with interest rates at 17 per cent, with a wage of $200. They said that they feel lucky to have their own home and think that young people should also have the opportunity to own a property and live a modest lifestyle without having to rely on landlords.

Caroline, who is retired and makes embroidered logos for companies, said that their nieces and nephews are struggling to buy a house. They believe that young people need to work hard and save money, as they did back in their day, to achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways

• The debate on who had it harder — the 'Baby Boomers' or the younger generation — remains ongoing.
• Baby Boomers remember their struggles, including high-interest rates, while Millennials and Gen Z face climate change and a pandemic.
• Despite the differences, both generations acknowledge the challenges of their time and offer advice to work hard and within one's means.

Members, what do you think about the debate between the baby boomers and younger generations? Do you agree that younger generations have it harder, or do you believe that each generation has its unique set of challenges?

What advice do you have for younger generations who are struggling to navigate the challenges of today's world, such as the high cost of housing? Please share your stories and experiences in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

""(When asked for his advice to younger generations, Chris emphasises the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that working two or three jobs, if necessary, can help individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.)""

Could not agree wth him more. Been there done that and now I can enjoy the rewards of all my previosuly hard work. Life is hard yes, bjut not as hard as many are forced to go through now.
You can also rip the benefits from what you sowed.?
Manna doesn't always fall from heaven. Think about it.

 

[Toyo]

I was born in the 1950's and worked hard all my life to own a home, it was very hard, the bills and house payment were always paid before we ate that's the way it was, meals were homemade we never bought takeaway, didn't even had a landline let alone a mobile phone. Meals were make from the cheapest cuts and vegetables in season, cakes and biscuits were baked at home. My grandkids laughed at me when I said one day I had never driven around a MacDonald's takeaway. Somehow we managed to buy a home, yes even at 18% interest. Yes young people can still buy a home today even at these prices, I just wish I'd had access to the money they have access to today, I'd be very wealthy. You can live the life you choose but some sacrifices are necessary if you want to live comfortably.

 

[Nana Zorak]

I worked hard all my life , saved up as much as I could , never bought anything I could not afford . That’s why I am today a self funded retiree.
My parents were always good savers and passed that on to me. Now my son is the same and living quite comfortably , I can not say the same of my daughter unfortunately .
I think some of the younger generation do not have any value for what people have saved up for. The youth crime is out of control and they get hardly punished .

I feel the same as you Mina even down to the children of the family. Although I am on a government pension I feel that I have earned it with all the business tax I paid when I had my Bridal business. Then I would take advantage of sales & end of line fabric sales so I could make something completely unique for my brides. I certainly agree about youth crime, which is why I have 3 large watchdogs roaming my yard. They have already seen off 2 carloads of youths with their eager barks. you certainly can't miss the fact they are huge from the ferocity of their barking.

 

[Cheezil]

Life is hard for them as it was for us, just in differing ways. We went without lots & they (my kid think we are weird for the things i do to save money even more so than ever before now!