The sun-worshipping, beach-dwelling, slow-living Australian stereotype has never been less accurate. Tech-based solutions and on-demand services are creating an expectation of convenience. But while brands cater to the speed with which Australians consume, are they at risk of sacrificing an emotional connection?

Half of Aussies say buying local is the most important thing to do to strengthen the economy. And it's not just older generations shopping with their local grocer – 20% of Gen Y support local businesses by promoting them online. Why are Aussies turning down the big boys in favour of smaller brands?

Eating out is a way of life for most Aussies – the nation spends $130 billion on food annually, with a quarter spent on dining out – and when they do, they expect good, quick service. In fact, waiting for a table annoys them more so than waiting for public transport or delayed shopping deliveries.

From UberEATS to Deliveroo, on-demand food delivery services are part of an increasingly competitive market. In Australia, the pizza restaurant and takeaway market reached $4 billion in 2015, and the country's biggest chain, Domino’s, is now set to deliver pizza by robot.