From skydiving at Mission beach to snorkeling The Great Barrier Reef, Australia is the tourist destination many dream of visting. Research suggests that while Aussies want to experience the same adventures abroad, the cost is prohibitive, so they're enjoying staycations instead.

With only one in ten homes in Sydney classified as affordable, getting on the property ladder Down Under is a mere dream for many Aussies. Research shows that people are now saving up for the present rather than the future – twice as many Australians are saving for a holiday over a property.

Tourists are travelling to Rottnest Island in Western Australia to get a #quokkaselfie – a picture with one of the region’s cute, local residents. Selfies by the likes of Margot Robbie have helped spread the word, but it is the promise of a distinctive local experience could attract young visitors.

The beach holds a privileged place in the Australian psyche. Synonymous with down time Down Under, it’s a particularly important part of the nation’s leisurely lifestyle. But is this really still true? What role does the beach play in contemporary Aussie living – and spending?