Square 2025 Neighbourhood Nation Report

Square released research showing a major shift in how Australians dine, spend and socialise. The findings point to the rise of a “Neighbourhood Nation” where Australians are increasingly choosing their local communities over city centres.

Drawing on millions of transactions across Square’s platform and a nationally representative consumer survey, the report shows the CBD is no longer the main economic drawcard. Transactional insights focused on Sydney and Melbourne, Australia’s two largest metropolitan centres, providing a clear lens into broader national trends.