The latest Consumer Driving Habits survey from the carsales research team takes a deep dive into how Australian drivers are adjusting in a post-pandemic world—a world where flexible work, rising fuel prices, and changing lifestyle choices influence every journey. Drawing from the data gathered in our previous pandemic-focused surveys, the latest study highlights both steadfast trends and new shifts in behaviour. With daily driving habits holding strong and remote work subtly reshaping transport choices, these findings reveal how the nation’s routines are evolving.
One of the most notable shifts involves working from home. While only a minority of respondents previously embraced remote work, this year has seen an increase, with many now working remotely between one to three days a week. This new arrangement has affected car usage patterns significantly. Those who work predominantly from home are less likely to rely on their cars for daily commuting. Instead, they are more inclined to use public transport, indicating that flexible work environments are fostering a greater reliance on shared transportation options.
For car owners who work primarily in-office, the car remains indispensable, with 85% of full-time office workers significantly more likely to drive with only 8% of these workers stating they regularly take public transport.
Beyond personal vehicles, the survey reveals that 67% of car owners frequently use alternative transportation methods, reflecting a more balanced approach to mobility in Australia. Public transport and rideshare services have become embedded in the daily routines of many, particularly among those who split their time between the office and home. For instance, nearly half of remote-first workers report using public transport frequently, contrasting with office-based workers who overwhelmingly rely on their cars. Interestingly, rideshare usage has also seen an increase, with 49% of respondents turning to these services —up from 42% in the last wave.
This uptake in rideshare usage among those who frequently use alternative modes hints at a diversification in transportation preferences, where Australians are embracing a more flexible mix of options that align with their work routines and lifestyle choices.
The survey highlights an emerging trend among first-time car buyers, many of whom were previously frequent public transport users. Nearly all respondents within this group intend to use their newly acquired vehicles frequently, suggesting a shift from public transport reliance to personal car ownership. This transition points to a growing appeal of car ownership among younger Australians, as they seek flexibility and independence in their daily travel.
As Australians continue adapting to the post-pandemic world, this year’s survey shows both stability and change within driving habits. While daily car use remains prevalent, flexible work arrangements and evolving transport options are shaping a more adaptable mobility landscape. Australians appear to be balancing personal vehicle use with alternative transportation methods, a trend that could persist as fuel costs rise and sustainable transport options become increasingly accessible.
For car owners, the return to familiar routines has reinforced the car’s role as a staple of daily life. Meanwhile, public transport and rideshare services are solidifying their place in Australia’s evolving transport ecosystem, providing adaptable solutions for a hybrid work lifestyle. However, with more Australian businesses recalling their workforces back to the offices, time will tell if these alternative transportation methods continue to gain consumers’ preference over driving.
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