Brisbane is currently facing a severe "baby drought" as its fertility rate has plummeted to a record low of 1.44 births per woman, far below the replacement rate of 2.1.

Despite a population growth of over half a million people in the last decade, fewer babies were born last year than ten years ago due to intense financial and housing affordability pressures.

Brisbane is currently facing a severe "baby drought" as its fertility rate has plummeted to a record low of 1.44 births per woman, far below the replacement rate of 2.1.
Despite a population growth of over half a million people in the last decade, fewer babies were born last year than ten years ago due to intense financial and housing affordability pressures.

Tune in to 4BC Mornings, weekdays from 9am-12pm.

Tune in to 4BC Mornings, weekdays from 9am-12pm.

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The Brisbane baby recession: Why the city is having fewer babies than it did a decade ago

While suffering from "man flu," a Jason Matthews discovered a possible family link to legendary Queenslander Chappy Close, sparking a humorous investigation into his true state heritage.

After checking a list of classic Queensland traits - from a love of thongs to waking up at 4:30 AM - he is left wondering if he needs a DNA test or a chat with the Premier to confirm his new identity.

While suffering from "man flu," a Jason Matthews discovered a possible family link to legendary Queenslander Chappy Close, sparking a humorous investigation into his true state heritage.
After checking a list of classic Queensland traits - from a love of thongs to waking up at 4:30 AM - he is left wondering if he needs a DNA test or a chat with the Premier to confirm his new identity.

Is Jason a Queenslander? The top 5 signs he might have maroon blood

Join Jason Mathews each weekday from 9am-12pm on 4BC Mornings.  

 

Join Jason Mathews each weekday from 9am-12pm on 4BC Mornings. &nbsp;
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FULL SHOW: 4BC Mornings with Jason Matthews, June 24th, 2026

Logan homeowners are facing a 5.1% general rate increase after the council approved a $1.39 billion budget to cope with rising operational costs.

Logan Mayor Jon Raven joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to defend the decision and the concurrent councillor pay rises, arguing that efficient budget cuts will save residents more money in the long run than rejecting a minor pay increase.

Logan homeowners are facing a 5.1% general rate increase after the council approved a $1.39 billion budget to cope with rising operational costs.
Logan Mayor Jon Raven joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to defend the decision and the concurrent councillor pay rises, arguing that efficient budget cuts will save residents more money in the long run than rejecting a minor pay increase.

The Brisbane baby recession: Why the city is having fewer babies than it did a decade ago

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