Leslie Massey
Australia is the sixth-largest nation in the world by area, but its population density is low, with around 3 to 4 people per square kilometre. This is due to the country's vast interior desert regions, also known as the outback, which are largely uninhabited. However, when considering population density in Australia's major cities, such as Sydney and Melbourne, the numbers increase significantly, with Melbourne's inner city having the nation's highest population density at 22,400 people per square kilometre. Living in densely populated urban areas in Australia offers various benefits, including increased job opportunities, easier social connections, and greater access to amenities and lifestyle perks. On the other hand, drawbacks of high population density include increased pollution and challenges with parking and storage spaces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population Density (people per sq. mile) | 9 people per sq. mile |
| Population Density (people per sq. km) | 3.3-4 people per sq. km |
| Total Land Area (sq. miles) | 2,966,151 sq. miles |
| Total Land Area (sq. km) | 7,682,300 sq. km |
| Urban Population | 86.51% |
| Median Age | 38.3 years |
| Total Population | 25.5 million |
| Population Growth Rate | 1.5% |
| World Rank in Population | 55th |
| World Rank in Land Area | 6th |
| Population Density Compared to Other Countries | Lower than Canada, the US, the UK, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh |
| Most Populous City | Sydney |
| City with Highest Population Density | Melbourne |
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What You'll Learn
Population density compared to other countries
Australia is the third least densely populated country in the world, after Namibia and Mongolia. The population density in Australia is 4 per square kilometre (9 people per square mile). To put this into context, the world population density is approximately 58 people per square kilometre. This low population density is despite Australia having the world's eighth-largest immigrant population, with immigrants accounting for 30% of the population.
The low population density in Australia can be attributed to various factors, including the country's large land area and the distribution of its population. Australia has a total land area of 7,682,300 square kilometres, with 86.51% of its population living in urban areas. This urban concentration leaves vast rural and uninhabited areas that contribute to the country's low population density.
Most of Australia's population lives close to coastlines, and there are five cities, including their suburbs, with over one million people each. The median age in Australia is 38.3 years, and the life expectancy is among the highest in the world, at 83.2 years.
In contrast to Australia's low population density, some countries have extremely high population densities. For example, Monaco, Singapore, and Bahrain have population densities of 26,429, 8,358, and 2,113 people per square kilometre, respectively. These countries have limited land areas and a high concentration of people, resulting in a much higher population density than Australia.
Additionally, some large countries with significant land areas have higher population densities than Australia due to their substantial populations. For instance, India and Japan have population densities of 464 and 335 people per square kilometre, respectively. These countries face challenges such as managing resources and infrastructure to accommodate their dense populations.
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Population density in Australian cities
Australia's population density as of June 2024 was 3.5 people per square kilometre (sq km) or 9 people per square mile. 70% of the Australian population lives in the top eight most populous cities.
Sydney
Sydney had the largest combined area in the high and very high-density classes (194 km²). Greater Sydney increased by 107,500 people (2.0%), while the rest of the state increased by 30,600 (1.1%). The areas with the largest growth were in Sydney's outer northwest and outer southwest.
Melbourne
Melbourne was second after Sydney, with 69 km² in the high and very high-density classes.
Brisbane
Brisbane City had the largest net overseas migration gain of 1,300. Brisbane had 24 km² in the high and very high-density classes. The suburb of Highgate Hill, to the south of Brisbane's central business district, had strong population growth in 2023-24. The areas with the highest density in June 2024 were inner Brisbane suburbs: Kangaroo Point and West End (both 8,900).
Adelaide
Adelaide had 1 km² in the high or very high-density classes. Greater Adelaide increased by 22,100 people (1.5%), while the rest of the state increased by 2,900 (0.7%). The city centre of Adelaide had the largest net overseas migration gain of 1,400. The areas with the highest density in June 2024 were near Adelaide's central business district: Unley-Parkside to the south, Norwood to the east, and Prospect to the north (all 3,100 people per sq km).
Perth
Perth had 3 km² in the high or very high-density classes. Greater Perth increased by 72,700 people (3.1%), while the rest of the state increased by 8,600 (1.5%). Net overseas migration was the largest contributor to Greater Perth's population increase.
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Pros and cons of high population density
Australia has a population density of 3.37 people per square kilometer, which is considered very low compared to other countries. While high population density has its advantages, it also comes with certain challenges and trade-offs. Here are some pros and cons of high population density:
Pros of High Population Density:
- Access to Resources: Densely populated areas often provide better access to various resources, including transportation, healthcare services, and job opportunities. People living in close proximity can benefit from efficient public transport systems, improved healthcare facilities, and a wider range of employment options.
- Cultural Diversity: High population density contributes to cultural diversity as people from different backgrounds and cultures live together. This can lead to more vibrant communities, fostering social cohesion and stability while celebrating and appreciating different cultures.
- Economic Growth: Densely populated regions often experience economic growth due to increased market demand. Businesses can thrive by serving larger populations, and higher tax revenues can be generated from a larger tax base. Additionally, companies may be incentivized to innovate, leading to new technologies, improved efficiency, and reduced costs.
- Efficiency: Higher population density can lead to increased efficiency in various aspects. Urban areas tend to be more energy efficient, with residents utilizing public transportation, living in apartments that are more cost-effective to heat, and having shops and facilities within walking distance. Higher density can also encourage the development of space-efficient transportation systems, such as underground railways.
Cons of High Population Density:
- Limited Resources: One of the significant challenges of high population density is the strain on resources. There may be competition for limited housing, infrastructure, and natural resources such as water and energy. This competition can lead to higher costs, congestion, and environmental degradation.
- Pollution and Environmental Impact: Higher population density often results in increased pollution levels, including air, water, and land pollution. The concentration of people and activities can contribute to soil degradation, water shortages, and increased waste generation. These issues can have negative consequences for both human health and the natural environment.
- Social Issues: High population density can exacerbate social problems, including congestion and pressure on infrastructure. Road congestion is a common issue, leading to increased travel time, higher pollution levels, and reduced productivity. Additionally, there may be challenges related to social cohesion, crime, and the overall quality of life.
- Pressure on Natural Environment: The natural environment can bear the brunt of high population density. Depletion of natural resources, loss of habitats, and increased pressure on ecosystems are some of the consequences. This can lead to conflicts, displacement, and a negative impact on biodiversity.
It is important to note that the impact of high population density can vary depending on various factors, such as resource management, infrastructure development, and technological advancements. While high population density offers certain advantages, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed to ensure sustainable living conditions and an improved quality of life for residents.
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Why is the population density so low?
Australia's population density is low because most of the country's interior is desert, also known as the outback, and presents extremely difficult living conditions. While Australia's major cities have population densities comparable to the rest of the Western world, when taking into account all the uninhabited land in the country, the overall population density is low.
As of June 2020, Australia's population density was 3.3 people per square kilometre, which is incredibly low compared to other countries. For example, India has a population density of 464 people per square kilometre, and the United States has 36 people per square kilometre. Even countries like Canada, with 4 people per square kilometre, and New Zealand, with 18 people per square kilometre, have higher population densities than Australia.
When considering the population density of Australia, it is important to look at the biggest cities in the country, not just the nation at large. Melbourne, for example, has Australia's highest population density, with 22,400 people per square kilometre in the inner city. Potts Point and Pyrmont, in Sydney's inner city, have the second-highest population densities in Australia, with 16,700 and 16,500 people per square kilometre, respectively. However, for big cities, these numbers are still relatively low.
There are various benefits and drawbacks to living in densely populated areas. One advantage is the increased job opportunities, as many companies have their headquarters in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. Additionally, people living in densely populated areas have instant access to a community of people, making it easier to form connections and pursue career, romantic, or friendship opportunities. However, some argue that while it is easier to meet people in denser cities, these connections are not always the deepest. Another downside of living in densely populated areas is the increased pollution of air, water, and land.
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Population growth rate
Australia's population growth rate has been similar to that of New Zealand and Canada, with net overseas migration being the main driver of population growth. In 2023-24, net overseas migration to Australia was 435,000 people, up from 47,000 in 1993-94. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in Australia's population growth rate as international travel restrictions limited global migration. In 2020-21, Australia experienced its first net outflow of migrants since World War II, with a net loss of 85,000 people. However, as Australia reopened its borders in 2021-22, it recorded its highest population growth rate in decades. Since then, growth has slowed, and from 2024-25, net overseas migration is expected to continue to slow, leading to a slower population growth rate.
The current population growth rate of Australia is projected to decline. The ten-year average annual growth rate of 1.4% is predicted to decrease to between 0.2% and 0.9%. This decrease in the growth rate is attributed to various factors, including declining fertility rates and an ageing population. Fertility rates have dropped from 3.1 births per woman in 1921 to 1.7 in 2021, and more recently, to 1.49 in 2023-24. The number of deaths has increased from 124,000 in 1993-94 to 183,000 in 2023-24, outpacing the number of births, which increased from 259,000 in 1993-94 to 289,000 in 2023-24.
Interstate migration within Australia has also influenced population distribution. While Australia has high rates of interstate migration compared to other countries, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a reduction in interstate moves due to temporary movement restrictions. There was a 23% drop in interstate moves from 2018-19 to 2020-21, and interstate moves have remained below pre-pandemic levels.
The population growth rate also varies across different regions within Australia. For example, in 2023-24, capital cities grew by 427,800 people (2.4%), with Melbourne experiencing the largest increase of 142,600 people, while Perth had the highest growth rate of 3.1%. In contrast, regional Australia grew by 113,800 people (1.3%). These differences in growth rates between capital cities and regional areas contribute to the overall population distribution and growth rate within Australia.
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Frequently asked questions
Australia's population density is 9 people per square mile.
Australia has one of the lowest population densities in the world. For example, the US has a population density of 35.71 people per square kilometre, while India has 464 people per square kilometre.
Australia's population density is low because most of the country's interior is desert, making living conditions difficult.
