Centre for Population

The Government is easing population pressures on Australia’s big capitals and supporting the growth of smaller cities and regions. By managing the rate of growth through the migration program and planning and investing in infrastructure, housing and services, the Government is ensuring that we are meeting the needs of current and future generations. 

Australia has long stood out from other similar nations as a country shaped by strong population growth and migration. Shaping a Nation traces the growth and changes in Australia’s population and migration story and the social, economic and fiscal impacts this has had.  

Population refers to the number of people in a particular geographical area

Population growth (or decline) occurs when people are born or die, arrive or depart

Population is measured by counting people where they usually live

Australia recorded 1.6 per cent population growth in 2018

Population change varied across Australia’s capital cities