Lexi Webster
Australia has one of the highest foreign-born resident populations in the world, with immigrants accounting for 30% of the population, the highest proportion among major Western nations. In 2021, 27.7% of people in Australia were born overseas, compared with 34.4% in Greater Capital Cities. Australia's population has quadrupled since the end of World War I, much of this increase stemming from immigration. The country has the world's eighth-largest immigrant population, with Asia being the largest source of immigrants in the 21st century. In 2024, the proportion of Australia's population born overseas increased to 31.5%.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Australia's population born overseas
Australia has one of the highest foreign-born populations in the world, both in total numbers and per capita. In 2020, 29.1% of the population, or 7.5 million people, were born overseas. This figure rose to 30% in 2021, or 7.52 million people, before declining due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. In 2024, the percentage of the population born overseas rose again to 31.5%.
Since the late 1970s, following the end of the White Australia policy in 1973, Australia has experienced a large and continuous wave of immigration from around the world. Since 1788, Australian culture has primarily been a Western culture strongly influenced by early Anglo-Celtic settlers. However, Asia is now the largest source of immigrants. In 2020, the largest group of overseas-born residents were from England, accounting for 980,000 people. Other large groups include those from Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands.
The age structures of the population born in Australia and those born overseas are different, with the population born overseas tending to be older. This is influenced by the fact that most people migrate to Australia as adults, and that when migrants have their children in Australia, those children are included in the proportion born in Australia. As of June 2024, the age groups with the largest populations for people born in Australia were 5-9 and 10-14-year-olds (both at 5.4% of the total population), while for people born overseas, they were 35-39 and 30-34-year-olds (3.2% and 3.1% respectively).
In 2021, 3.2% of the Australian population identified as being Indigenous, including Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders. Indigenous Australians experience higher rates of imprisonment and unemployment, lower levels of education, and significantly lower life expectancies than non-Indigenous Australians.
Australia's Nazi Ban: Free Speech or Necessary Action?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Indigenous Australians
The time of arrival of the first human beings in Australia is a matter of debate and ongoing investigation. The earliest conclusively human remains found in Australia are those of Mungo Man LM3 and Mungo Lady, which have been dated to around 40,000 years ago, although Indigenous Australians have most likely been living in Australia for upwards of 65,000 years.
Isolated for millennia by rising sea water after the last Ice Age, Australian Aboriginal peoples developed a variety of regional cultures and languages, invented distinct artistic and religious traditions, and affected the continent's environment in numerous ways through hunting, fire-stick farming, and possibly the introduction of the dog. Hunting and warfare technologies such as the boomerang and spear were constructed from natural materials, as were musical instruments like the didgeridoo.
At the 2021 census, 3.2% of the Australian population identified as being Indigenous, representing 812,728 people. Of these Indigenous Australians, 91.4% identified as Aboriginal, 4.2% as Torres Strait Islander, and 4.4% identified with both groups. The Indigenous population prior to European settlement was small, with estimates ranging widely from 318,000 to more than 3,000,000 in total.
Revising Your Virgin Australia Flight Booking: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Post-World War II migration
In the immediate aftermath of World War II, Ben Chifley, the Prime Minister of Australia from 1945 to 1949, established the federal Department of Immigration to administer a large-scale immigration program. Chifley commissioned a report that found Australia urgently needed to increase its population for defence and development purposes, recommending a 1% annual population growth through immigration. This initiative was summarised in the slogan "populate or perish", coined by Billy Hughes, the Minister for Health and Repatriation, in the 1930s.
The first Minister for Immigration, Arthur Calwell, played a significant role in shaping Australia's post-World War II immigration policy. Calwell's pledge in 1946 reflected the country's preference for British migrants: "Australia hopes that for every foreign migrant there will be ten people from the United Kingdom." This preference was in line with the ''White Australia' policy, which had been implemented in the late 19th century and actively prioritised British migrants. Calwell also promoted mass immigration, stating that Australia needed to "greatly increase our numbers" to ensure the country's survival and development.
Financial assistance was a crucial aspect of the post-war immigration program. The Australian government implemented schemes such as the Ten Pound Assisted Passage Scheme, also known as the "Bring Out a Briton" campaign, which offered affordable travel to Australia. This scheme was extremely popular and attracted a large number of British migrants, with over a million Britons emigrating to Australia between 1947 and 1981. However, it's important to note that while there was an emphasis on attracting British migrants, a significant number of migrants from other cultural backgrounds also emigrated to Australia during this period.
The post-war migration to Australia had a notable impact on the country's demography and culture. By 2021, 27.7% of people in Australia were born overseas, with the majority of the overseas-born population being older than the Australian-born population. This reflects the historical settlement patterns and the continuous wave of immigration that Australia has experienced since 1788, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.
Urban Australia: Why Is It So Popular?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Population growth
Australia's population has grown significantly over the past century, with several factors contributing to this growth. Firstly, Australia has a long history of immigration, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries when the European component of the population rose sharply due to colonisation. Since then, Australia has continued to experience waves of immigration from various parts of the world, contributing to its population growth.
In recent decades, the overseas-born population in Australia has been growing at a faster rate than the Australian-born population. In 2021, 27.7% of people in Australia were born overseas, with this number increasing to 31.5% in 2024. This growth is attributed to a net flow of migrants, with more people migrating to Australia than leaving. The top countries of birth contributing to this increase include non-European countries, reflecting a shift in Australia's historical settlement patterns.
The age structures of the Australian-born and overseas-born populations also differ. The population born overseas tends to be older, as most people migrate to Australia as adults. In 2024, the largest population groups for people born in Australia were 5-9 and 10-14-year-olds, while for the overseas-born population, the largest groups were 35-39 and 30-34-year-olds. This difference in age structures is influenced by factors such as the age at which people migrate and the birth of children to migrants in Australia, who are then included in the Australian-born population.
Australia's population growth has also been impacted by its fertility rates. Following World War II, Australia experienced a baby boom, with a sharp increase in the rate of natural increase. However, since 1962, there has been a downward trend in fertility rates, with the rate of natural increase falling below seven for the first time in 1996. This decline in fertility has contributed to a fall in the rate of natural population growth.
In terms of population distribution, Australia is highly urbanised, with 86.51%-89% of its population living in urban areas. The population is concentrated mainly in coastal areas, particularly on the Eastern, South Eastern, and Southern seaboards. Australia has a low population density, making it one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world.
As of 2025, Australia's population is estimated to be between 26,974,026 and 27,981,800, with a projected growth to between 34.3 and 45.9 million people by 2071. The current annual growth rate is 1.4%, but it is expected to decline to between 0.2% and 0.9%. The median age is projected to increase, and Australia's population is expected to remain predominantly urban and culturally diverse.
Target Australia: Penalty Rates and Pay
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Capital cities
Australia is home to six states, two territories, and eight capital cities. The capital cities of Australia are spread across the country and are known for their unique characteristics and attractions. Here is an overview of some of the capital cities:
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is located within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). ACT is renowned for its blend of nature and culture, boasting natural wonders such as glistening lakes and wild wetlands. Canberra is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and is home to significant national institutions, including the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia, and Parliament House.
Perth, Western Australia (WA)
Perth is the capital of Western Australia, the largest state in the country, situated on its west coast. Perth is famous for its serene and uncrowded beaches, parklands, and fresh seafood. Western Australia offers a diverse range of attractions, including the dramatic Kimberley Region, the idyllic Rottnest Island, and the premium wine and surf region of Margaret River.
Darwin, Northern Territory (NT)
Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory, located at the top end of Australia. The Northern Territory is known for its iconic natural landmarks, including Kakadu National Park, King's Canyon, and Litchfield National Park. Uluru, one of the most famous natural wonders in Australia, is also located within the territory. Darwin offers a quintessential Australian experience with its sublime landscapes, emblematic wildlife, and authentic Aboriginal culture.
Brisbane, Queensland (QLD)
Brisbane, often affectionately called "Brissie," is the capital of Queensland, known as the "Sunshine State." Queensland is a subtropical stretch of land in northeast Australia, boasting attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef, the ancient Daintree Rainforest, and the Whitsunday Islands. Brisbane enjoys an abundance of winter sunshine and warmth, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.
Hobart, Tasmania (TAS)
Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, an island state separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait. Tasmania offers breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, and picturesque rivers. Hobart is a cosmopolitan city known for its proximity to charming regional towns, exquisite food and wine trails, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
Melbourne, Victoria (VIC)
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, the cultural heart of Australia. Melbourne has been awarded the title of the "World's Most Liveable City" multiple times due to its cultural diversity, modern cityscape, and friendly atmosphere.
Australia has experienced a significant influx of immigration over the years, with a large proportion of the population being born overseas. This diversity has enriched the cultural landscape of the country, including its capital cities.
Australian News Blackout: What's the Reason?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
3.2% of the Australian population identified as Indigenous at the 2021 census. This figure includes Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders.
In 2024, 31.5% of Australia's population were born overseas. This is an increase from 23.8% in 2004. In 2023, this figure was 31%.
As of June 2024, Australia's population was 27.2 million.
Three-quarters (73%) of Australians live in major cities, with a quarter (25%) living in inner or outer regional Australia. The remainder (1.9%) live in remote or very remote areas.
