Realestate.com.au: Aussies Hate Their Neighbours’ Guts, Apparently

A new study by the News-owned realestate.com.au has found that when it comes to getting to know our neighbours we Aussies are a prickly bunch with more than one-third of us having no interest in getting to know people in our street.

The study surveyed Aussies’ regard, or lack of, for their neighbours. More than 15 per cent admitted they go out of their way to avoid speaking to a neighbour, while one in five revealed they’d previously had a dispute with someone living in their street. You can read the study in full here.

Key findings included:

More than a third of Australians don’t have any interest in getting to know their neighbours (37 per cent);
15 per cent of Australians go out of their way to avoid speaking to neighbours;
One in 10 admits to spying on a neighbour (10 per cent);
One in five Australians has had a dispute with a neighbour (20 per cent);
More than one in 10 uses their neighbour’s bin without asking them (11 per cent).

realestate.com.au executive general manager of residential, Andrew Rechtman, said the findings showed that for the most part Ramsay Street really is more fiction than fact.

“The results are somewhat surprising when you consider Australians are known for their relaxed and friendly nature, but it seems that doesn’t always extend to our neighbours. We need to take a leaf out of Ramsay Street,” Rechtman said.

“We know that when people are searching for a home one of the first questions they ask is – what are the neighbours like and what will my neighbourhood be like? Good neighbours can make or break a street, which is why understanding and getting insights on a potential neighbourhood on realestate.com.au can often give a buyer the confidence to make an offer on a house.

“Stronger neighbourhood relationships foster a deeper sense of community and a greater support network. We know that more connected neighbours can lead to safer communities, as residents are more inclined to look out for one another,” Rechtman said.

The findings did not show a significant difference in responses between those living within a capital city and those living in regional/rural areas. Surprisingly, responses were also similar between age groups.

“The common perception is that older Australians have stronger relationships with their neighbours than younger people, but it seems that isn’t the case. Baby Boomers are avoiding their neighbours just as much as Gen Y,” Rechtman said.

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