Lexi Webster
Australia is the sixth-largest nation in the world, with a population of around 25 million people. However, it is also one of the most sparsely populated countries, with a density of just 3.3 persons per square kilometre. Australia's population is concentrated in its cities, with 70% of the population living in the top eight most populous cities. Sydney is the most populated city, with 4,627,345 people as of 2025. In contrast, the least populated city is Darwin, with 140,000 people. Outside of the major cities, some towns in Australia have extremely low populations. For example, Cooladdi, a rural town in Queensland, had a population of just 3 people in 2015, which increased to 7 people in the 2021 census.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Least populated city | Darwin |
| Population of Darwin | 140,000 |
| Population density of Darwin | 44.98 people per square kilometre |
| City with the lowest population density | Brisbane |
| Population density of Brisbane | 45 people per square metre |
| Territory with the lowest population density | Northern Territory |
| Population density of Northern Territory | 0.2 people per square kilometre |
| Smallest town by population | Cooladdi |
| Population of Cooladdi in 2015 | 3 |
| Population of Cooladdi in 2013 | 4 |
| Population of Cooladdi in 2021 | 7 |
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What You'll Learn
Cooladdi, a rural town in Queensland, had a population of 3 in 2015
Cooladdi is a rural town and locality in the Shire of Murweh, Queensland, Australia. It is located 88.9 kilometres (55.2 miles) southwest of Charleville and is situated along the Diamantina Developmental Road and the Western railway line.
Cooladdi was once a thriving railway town with a population of about 270 people. However, as the railway line extended further west, the town's population declined. In 2015, the population of Cooladdi had dropped to just 3 people, down from 4 in 2013. All three residents lived in the general store, which also served as a restaurant, motel, pub, and post office called the Fox Trap.
The isolation of Cooladdi has created a unique sense of community among its residents. The Muller family, who own and operate the Fox Trap, socialize with tourists and Queenslanders passing through town. They also embrace the quiet and laid-back lifestyle that the town offers. However, they face challenges such as limited mobile reception and the need to travel long distances for specialized services or in case of emergencies.
In the 2016 census, the locality of Cooladdi saw a slight increase in population, with 16 people recorded. This number further grew to 7 people in the 2021 census, indicating a small but steady resurgence in the town's population.
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The population of Cooladdi was 7 in the 2021 census
Australia is a country with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas. Sydney in New South Wales is the fastest-growing and most populated city in Australia, with 5,230,330 people as of June 2018. On the other end of the spectrum, Darwin is the least populated city, with 140,000 people.
However, when considering towns, Cooladdi in Queensland stands out as remarkably sparse. In 2015, Cooladdi's population was just 3 people, down from 4 in 2013. All of these individuals resided in the general store. This decline resulted from the westward expansion of the railway line, which diminished the town's role and allure. By the 2016 census, the population had risen to 16 people, but it then decreased again, and the 2021 census recorded a mere 7 people in the locality of Cooladdi.
Cooladdi's history witnessed a time when it served as a railhead for the local pastoral community. The town once boasted a school, post office, and police station, with a population of about 270 people. The Cooladdi State School, which opened in 1926, closed its doors in 1974. Today, the Western railway line and the Diamantina Developmental Road pass through the town, which is situated 88.9 kilometres southwest of Charleville.
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The Northern Territory has the lowest population density in Australia
The Northern Territory (NT) is an Australian internal territory in the central and central-northern regions of Australia. It is sparsely populated, with a population of only 249,000 as of December 2021, which accounts for about 1% of the Australian population. The NT population density is 0.16 people per kilometre, making it the least populated state in Australia. The Territory's population is concentrated in coastal regions and along the Stuart Highway, with the majority residing in the greater Darwin area, and the remainder dispersed over remote and very remote areas. The Aboriginal population in the NT is significant, representing about 30.8% of the Territory's population, with a median age of 27 years in 2021.
Population growth in the NT is volatile, primarily driven by natural increase and net overseas migration. The NT's population growth strategy aims to attract more people to the Territory and encourage long-term residence. The Territory has a young age profile, with a large number of residents aged 25 to 34. Male-dominated industries such as mining, construction and defence contribute to a higher male population. The main occupations in the NT include professionals, technicians, trades workers, clerical and administrative workers, and community and personal service workers.
The Northern Territory has a diverse cultural and historical background. Humans have inhabited the area for at least 48,400 to 68,700 years, with extensive trade links established by traders from Sulawesi with the Indigenous peoples of the region. The Territory is also home to spectacular natural rock formations, including Uluru/Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta/The Olgas, which are sacred to the local Aboriginal people and major international tourist attractions.
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Darwin is the least populated city in Australia
Australia is a large country with a relatively small population. It is the sixth-largest country in the world but has an estimated population of just 25,499,884 people. This makes it one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, with a population density of just 3.3 persons per square kilometre.
The population of Australia is spread across six states: New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia, Victoria, and Queensland. The majority of Australians live in cities, with 70% of the population residing in the eight most populous cities. The largest city in Australia is Sydney, with a population of around 4,627,345 people.
However, not all Australian cities have such large populations. Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, is the least populated city in Australia. In 2018, it had a population of 140,000 people and a population density of only 44.98 people per square kilometre. This makes it much smaller than other Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne, which have populations of over 4 million people each.
Darwin's small population is due in part to its location. It is a tropical city located in the "Top End" of Australia, which is quite remote and isolated from the rest of the country. It is also a relatively new city, having been rebuilt after it was devastated by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Despite its small size, Darwin is an important city in Australia, serving as a gateway to the nearby islands and South East Asia.
While Darwin is the least populated city in Australia, there are even smaller towns in the country. For example, Cooladdi in Queensland had a population of just 3 people in 2015, although the population had increased to 7 people by the 2021 census. These small towns and cities are a unique part of Australia's diverse and spread-out population.
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Sydney is the most populated city in Australia
Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a population of 5,450,496 as of 2023. It is the capital of the state of New South Wales and is located on the country's east coast. Sydney is a multicultural metropolis known for its iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and the historic Harbour Bridge. Between 2011 and 2023, the city's population grew by 18%, making it a significant urban centre in Australia.
Sydney's cultural and architectural attractions make it a popular destination for international visitors. Its Greater Capital City Statistical Area (GCCSA) encompasses the broader concept of the capital city, including labour market areas and surrounding regions. This statistical area helps define the extent of Sydney's influence and impact on the region.
As a major metropolis, Sydney offers a vibrant arts scene and cultural diversity. It is known as the "cultural capital of Australia", with a reputation for being a must-see destination for first-time visitors to the country. The city's rich history and modern developments coexist, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Sydney's population growth and urban development have transformed it into a thriving hub. The city's multiculturalism and artistic significance further enhance its appeal, solidifying its position as Australia's most populous and influential city. Sydney's status as a sought-after destination contributes to its continued growth and cultural importance in the region.
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Frequently asked questions
Darwin is the least populated city in Australia, with a population of 140,000 people and a population density of 44.98 people per square kilometre.
Cooladdi in Queensland is claimed to be Australia's least populated town. In 2015, the population was 3, down from 4 in 2013. In the 2021 census, the population was 7.
Sydney is the most populated city in Australia, with 5,230,330 people as of June 2018.
New South Wales is the most populated state in Australia, with Sydney being the most populated city in the state.
