Bernard Salt AM in Ballarat

Bernard Salt AM is one of Australia’s leading social commentators and business analysists. He recently spoke at a Ballarat Clarendon College event, Australia at 2030 and Beyond: The Skills our Kids Will Need.

Salt draws on vast datasets to interpret the overall trajectory of social change in the past and into the future, in this presentation focusing on Ballarat as a city and people.

Even though Melbourne is extending its reach into the lifestyle zone beyond the metro edge, he argues Ballarat must remain independent.

Salt discussed how Ballarat is a city well placed to deal with societal shifts including the popularity of a ‘tree change’ and ‘work from home’ which have seen more people leave urban areas. It has critical mass, a university, a TV station, a newspaper, radio stations, a manufacturing base and access to a global city.

Ballarat is also well placed to cater for the businesses that are expanding the most - including care, logistics, tech and skills.

Data shows Australians spend their wealth on housing, super and lifestyle and Ballarat can capitalise on this trend. As a city, Ballarat must also be prepared for the Millennials in their 40s who will soon be seeking “lifestyle housing.” Salt suggested they want inner, low-maintenance housing with easy access to shopping, hospitality and entertainment – something many regional cities, including Ballarat, are lacking.

Bernard Salt AM presenting at Ballarat Clarendon College.