The programme featured an interview with one of the Living in Australia interviewers, Peter George, and excerpts from the speech he gave as the Guest Speaker at the Conference Dinner. Here are some of the things he had to say:

"One of the hidden pleasures of being a [Living in Australia] interviewer is to reacquaint with the same people every year. It often reminds me of that film 'Same Time Next Year'. Some people are horrified when they see us because they are gobsmacked that a year has already gone by. Others welcome us with open arms because the finance section of the survey motivates them to get their tax returns in order."

Peter, who has been an interviewer on the Living in Australia study since 2002, reflected on some of his experiences. He particularly enjoys visiting the wide variety of people who take part in the study as they all have a different story to tell. The feature on our study ended with the presenter, Mark Horstman, saying "If any of the 13,000 participants are listening – we thank you on behalf of the nation."

In the Living In Australia study there are over 150 interviewers conducting interviews in each state across Australia. Below are brief profiles of two Living In Australia interviewers.

Gabriela Strunk

"I have been an interviewer on the Living in Australia study for six years and have built many relationships with respondents during that time. The nature of the study means I am constantly meeting new and wonderful people from all walks of life.

I start to become part of the family as respondents share their family’s lives with me – I in turn tend to do the same. The majority of respondents know me by first name, my interests, right down to how I drink my tea. I know I am doing a good job when that happens!

The best reward is knowing that respondents have a sense of trust in me as an interviewer - they’re happy to deal with me. Overall, it’s a joyous experience! I love my job and enjoy the interaction and freedom it provides. Working with families and learning their views can be very rewarding.”

David Hinds

David is one of our dedicated Living in Australia interviewers. He is based in Victoria.