Online dating trends in Australia has rapidly grown and has transformed into the primary method for young Australians to meet partners. A comprehensive new study reveals that over half of Australians aged 20-39 have connected with their most recent partner online, reflecting a significant shift in relationship-building.
Andrew and Josella’s story is one such example. The couple met on Tinder in 2021 during Sydney’s lockdowns. Andrew recalls messaging Josella after being captivated by her profile. Although their first date was slightly awkward, it sparked a lasting connection. Fast forward to today, and their relationship epitomises the growing trend of young Australians meeting online.
Online Dating Trends In Australia
This story is no longer unique. Dr. Denton Callander, an epidemiologist at the Kirby Institute at the University of New South Wales, unveiled preliminary findings from the latest Australian Study of Health and Relationships (ASHR) at the International Union Against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI) congress in Sydney. Conducted every decade, the ASHR explores sexual and reproductive health across Australia.
The study’s findings show that more than 50% of Australians aged 20-39 met their last partner online, compared to just 12% a decade ago. This shift aligns with the rise of dating apps like Tinder, which launched in 2012. In 2012-13, only one in ten Australians had sought a partner online. Today, that figure has tripled, with 33% of Australians now engaging in online dating.
Dr. Callander highlighted that this digital approach to dating is not just a youth trend; it spans all age groups. The ASHR revealed that 44% of those aged 16-29 and 37% of 30-49-year-olds have turned to online platforms to find partners. Even among 50-69-year-olds, 21% have sought online connections.
Beyond age, the survey also highlighted differences based on sexual orientation. LGBTQ+ individuals are significantly more likely to use online dating, with gay and trans men in particular finding casual partners through digital platforms. In fact, the study revealed that 38% of online matches resulted in sex on the first meeting, compared to 24% for those who met offline.
Another finding from the study is the increase in sexting. Over half of Australians have sent or received explicit messages, with one in ten sending their first sext before the age of 18. However, concerning data emerged about safety: nearly one in five participants reported experiencing sexual coercion or fear with someone they met online.
Dr. Callander emphasised that while the statistics around sexual coercion are worrying, they must be viewed in the broader context of sexual violence, which affects 22% of Australians overall. This underlines the need for better sexual education, particularly regarding online dating and consent.
Looking forward, the ASHR predicts that online dating will continue to grow. Dr. Lisa Portolan from the University of Technology Sydney noted that since Tinder’s launch, online partner-seeking has soared. She stressed that the increased reliance on digital tools for romantic and sexual connections calls for comprehensive education to ensure people can safely navigate the online dating world.
