Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is a country with a federal division that comprises six states and ten federal territories. As of 28 June 2025, the population of Australia is estimated to be 27,900,600 people. The population is concentrated mainly in urban areas, particularly on the Eastern, South Eastern, and Southern seaboards. The current population estimate is a significant increase from the population of 26 million in 2022, and the population is projected to exceed 30 million by 2029. The state of New South Wales, where Sydney, the country's most populated city, is located, has the highest population. Queensland is the third-most populous state, followed by Western Australia, which is the fourth-most populous state. South Australia is the fifth-most populous state, accounting for about 7% of the country's population.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population of Australia | 25,745,395 (as of 2023) |
| Most Populous State | New South Wales (8,237,060) |
| Least Populous State | Australian Capital Territory (467,949) |
| Fastest Growing State (by % change) | Victoria (11.6% growth from 2018-2023) |
| Slowest Growing State (by % change) | Australian Capital Territory (4.9% growth from 2018-2023) |
| Most Dense State (by persons per sq. km) | Australian Capital Territory (161.4 persons/sq. km) |
| Least Dense State (by persons per sq. km) | Western Australia (1.0 person/sq. km) |
| State with Largest Land Area | Western Australia (2.5 million sq. km) |
| State with Smallest Land Area | Australian Capital Territory (2,358 sq. km) |
| Average Population Growth Rate (2018-2023) | 7.9% |
| Total Land Area of Australia | 7,692,024 sq. km |
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What You'll Learn
New South Wales—the most populated state
New South Wales, or NSW, is a state on the east coast of Australia. It is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Its coast borders the Coral and Tasman Seas to the east, and it includes Lord Howe Island, which is located 360 miles (580 km) east of the continent. The state capital of New South Wales is Sydney, which is also the country's largest city and the site of the first British settlement in Australia in 1788.
New South Wales was founded as a British penal colony in 1788 and originally comprised more than half of the Australian mainland. The colony also included the island territories of Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania), Lord Howe Island, and Norfolk Island. In 1825, Van Diemen's Land became a separate colony, and the western border of New South Wales was extended to the 129th meridian east, now the Western Australian border.
In December 2024, the population of New South Wales was over 8.5 million, making it Australia's most populous state. Almost two-thirds of the state's population, 5.3 million, live in the Greater Sydney area. The population of Australia as a whole is estimated to be between 26,974,026 and 27,900,600 as of mid-2025. While most of New South Wales's population lives in cities, there is a pattern of new settlements emerging in regional centres, most often on the coast.
New South Wales has the largest economy of all the Australian states and is known for its sparkling capital, Sydney, its endless beaches and bushland, and its sophisticated dining scene. The state boasts stunning coastlines, rugged outback, hazy mountain ranges, and lush, subtropical forests. It is a popular destination for road trips, with its beautiful winding coastlines and endless rugged bushland.
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Queensland—the third-most populated state
Queensland, located in northeastern Australia, is the third-most populated state in the country. It is also the second-largest state in Australia, occupying nearly one-fourth of the continent. Queensland has a population of over 5.5 million, with the majority of its residents living in South East Queensland. The state's capital and largest city is Brisbane, which is Australia's third-largest city and makes up half of Queensland's population.
Queensland is bordered by the Northern Territory, South Australia, and New South Wales to the west, southwest, and south, respectively. To the east, the state is bordered by the Coral Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and to the north lies the Torres Strait, separating the Australian mainland from Papua New Guinea. The state covers an area of 1,723,030 square kilometres (665,270 square miles), making it larger than all but 16 countries. Due to its size, Queensland has diverse geographical features and climates, including tropical rainforests, rivers, coral reefs, mountain ranges, and white sandy beaches in its tropical and subtropical coastal regions.
The state has experienced rapid population growth through "sunbelt" migration to its attractive coastal regions. Ten of Australia's thirty largest cities are located in Queensland, including popular tourist destinations such as the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Queensland's economy is the third-largest among Australian states, with key sectors including mining, agriculture, transportation, international education, insurance, and banking.
Queensland has a decentralised population distribution, with most of its people scattered along the eastern coastline over a distance of 1,400 miles (2,250 km). The rest of the population is thinly dispersed across the vast interior, posing challenges in terms of access and communication. Despite its large area and relatively small population, Queensland has the highest inter-state net migration in Australia, with 24.2% of its residents born overseas.
As of 2025, the population of Australia is estimated to be between 26,974,026 and 27,900,600, with Queensland accounting for a significant portion of the country's total population.
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Western Australia—the fourth-most populated state
As of 2023, Western Australia is the fourth-most populated state in Australia, with approximately 2.7 million people residing there. It is a vast state, covering almost one-third of the Australian continent, yet it has a relatively small population in comparison to its size. The majority of its residents live in the state's capital, Perth, which is located on the southwestern coast. With a population of over 2 million, Perth is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed outdoor lifestyle. The city is surrounded by natural attractions, including wine regions and scenic coastal towns, which draw both tourists and new residents.
Western Australia has a diverse cultural heritage, with a significant Indigenous population and a long history of immigration from a variety of countries. The state has a strong economy, largely driven by its natural resources sector, including mining, petroleum, and agriculture. This has made it an attractive destination for migrants from across Australia and the world, seeking employment opportunities. The state has also invested in infrastructure and services to support its growing population, with new transport links, schools, and healthcare facilities.
The population of Western Australia is expected to continue growing, with projections estimating it will reach 3 million by 2026. This growth is anticipated to come from both a natural increase in births and continued migration to the state. The state government has implemented strategies to manage this growth sustainably, including urban planning initiatives and regional development programs to encourage population distribution across the state.
One of the unique features of Western Australia is its isolation from the other Australian states and territories. It is the most western state, with the Indian Ocean as its western border, and it is separated from the eastern states by vast distances. This has fostered a strong sense of identity and community among Western Australians, who often refer to their state as 'the wild west' or 'the waiting period', reflecting both its remoteness and the sense of adventure and opportunity it offers.
The state also boasts a diverse range of natural landscapes, from the ancient Kimberley region in the north, known for its rugged mountains and breathtaking gorges, to the pristine beaches and unique wildlife of the south. Western Australia is also home to some of the country's most significant historical sites, including the ancient Aboriginal rock art of the Pilbara region and the historic Fremantle Prison, a former convict-built jail. These natural and cultural attractions further enhance the appeal of Western Australia as a place to live and visit.
In conclusion, Western Australia is a state of contrasts, offering both a high quality of life and a sense of adventure to its residents and visitors. Its growing population reflects the state's appeal as a destination, supported by its strong economy and natural attractions. With continued sustainable development and a focus on managing its growth, Western Australia is set to continue thriving as one of Australia's most dynamic and captivating states.
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South Australia—the fifth-most populated state
As of 2023, South Australia is the fifth-most populated state in Australia, with approximately 1.78 million people residing within its borders. Spreading over a total land area of 983,482 square kilometres, South Australia is noted for its diverse landscapes, from its expansive Outback regions to its picturesque coastal areas.
The majority of South Australia's population is concentrated in the state's capital and largest city, Adelaide, which is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and surrounding wine regions. Adelaide is home to approximately 1.36 million people, making it the fifth-largest city in the country and one of the most liveable cities in the world due to its thriving arts scene, renowned food and wine culture, and abundant natural attractions.
Beyond Adelaide, South Australia is also known for its diverse regional areas, each with its unique characteristics and attractions. The Barossa Valley, located northeast of Adelaide, is famous for its world-class wineries and picturesque countryside. The Fleurieu Peninsula, known for its stunning coastal scenery and charming towns, is a popular tourist destination, as is the Limestone Coast, renowned for its unique limestone formations and pristine beaches.
Additionally, South Australia is a state rich in natural resources and is a significant contributor to Australia's agricultural and mining sectors. The state's economy is strongly linked to these industries, with wheat, barley, and grape production forming the backbone of its agricultural strength, and mining focusing on uranium, gold, and copper. The state also has a growing renewable energy sector, with wind and solar energy projects contributing to its economic diversification.
South Australia's population is expected to continue growing, with projections estimating it to reach nearly two million by 2036. This growth is anticipated to be driven by a combination of natural increase and net interstate and overseas migration, with the state's high liveability and lifestyle factors attracting new residents.
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Victoria—a colony in 1851
In 1851, Victoria became a separate colony from New South Wales, marking a pivotal moment in the history of what is now the state of Victoria, Australia. This change came about due to the rapid growth of the region, fueled largely by the discovery of gold and the subsequent gold rush that began in the early 1850s. The separation of Victoria was officially established with the passage of the Australian Colonies Government Act by the British Parliament, which granted separate colonial status to Victoria and also made it a self-governing colony with its own legislative council.
Prior to this, the region had been a part of New South Wales since the establishment of the colony in 1788. The push for separation had been building for some time, with the residents of the region feeling that their interests, particularly those related to the management of the burgeoning gold fields, were not being adequately represented by the distant government in Sydney. The discovery of gold transformed the region, with Melbourne, the future capital of Victoria, experiencing rapid growth and development. The population of the new colony swelled with an influx of immigrants from various parts of the world, all drawn by the promise of striking it rich.
The gold rush had a profound impact on the development of Victoria, shaping its economy, society, and culture. It led to the establishment of new towns and the development of infrastructure to support the growing population and industry. The colonial government invested in roads, railways, schools, and other public institutions, laying the foundation for the future prosperity of the state. The gold rush also attracted a diverse range of people to Victoria, contributing to its cultural richness and the development of a distinct Victorian identity.
By the time Victoria became a colony in its own right, it had already established itself as a thriving and prosperous region. The separation allowed for greater local control and the ability to shape policies and laws that specifically addressed the needs and aspirations of its citizens. This included the development of education, healthcare, and cultural institutions, as well as the management of the gold fields and the encouragement of other industries to ensure a diverse and robust economy.
The legacy of this period can still be felt today, with Victoria known for its vibrant culture, strong economy, and diverse population. The separation of Victoria in 1851 was a pivotal moment in the history of the state, shaping its future and contributing to the unique character and success of this Australian state. It marked a new chapter in the story of Victoria, providing the foundation for it to become one of the most populous and influential states in Australia.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 30 June 2024, Australia's population was approximately 25.77 million people, with 18.6 million born in Australia and 31.5% born overseas.
The majority of Australians (79%) live in the eastern coastal mainland states of New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory.
The state with the smallest population is Tasmania, which had a population of less than 16.3% in 2021.
