️ Highlights:
1. The population of Australia grew by 0.7% in the March 2023 quarter, with a total increase of 2.2% compared to the previous year.
2. The country experienced a record net inflow of 454,000 migrants in the year to March 2023, contributing to population growth.
3. Natural increase (births minus deaths) decreased by 18.5% compared to the previous year, driven by an increase in deaths and a decrease in births.
4. Western Australia had the fastest growing population, followed by Victoria and Queensland, while Tasmania and Northern Territory had the slowest growth.
5. The number of interstate moves decreased compared to the previous year and were significantly lower than in 2019, but net moves to regional areas remained above pre-pandemic levels.
Executive Summary
In the first quarter of 2023, Australia witnessed a significant growth in its Estimated Resident Population (ERP), increasing by 0.7% compared to the previous quarter, and 2.2% year-on-year. This report delineates the critical factors influencing this growth, including migration patterns and natural increase rates, and offers a detailed breakdown of population trends across different states and territories.
Detailed Analysis
Migration Trends
Australia recorded a historic net inflow of 454,000 migrants in the year leading up to March 2023, with 152,000 arriving in the last quarter alone. This surge was facilitated by a robust increase in arrivals coupled with a decline in departures, contributing 0.6 percentage points to the quarterly population growth.
Natural Increase
The natural increase, calculated as births minus deaths, experienced a downturn, falling to 109,000 — an 18.5% decrease from the previous year. This decline is attributed to a 7.9% rise in deaths and a 3.4% reduction in births over the same period.
State and Territory Breakdown
- Western Australia: Leading with the fastest population growth at 2.8%.
- Victoria: Following closely with a 2.4% increase.
- Queensland: Exhibited a growth rate of 2.3%.
- Tasmania and Northern Territory: Registered the slowest growth, with rates of 0.4% and 0.9% respectively.
Interstate Movements
Interstate relocations diminished compared to the previous year, standing 19.3% lower than the same period in 2019. Despite a decrease in the last quarter, net moves to regional areas remained above pre-pandemic levels.
Conclusion
Australia’s population dynamics in the first quarter of 2023 were significantly influenced by unprecedented migration rates and changing natural increase patterns. Western Australia emerged as the region with the highest growth, while interstate movements showcased a preference for regional areas. Policymakers and stakeholders must leverage this data to foster sustainable growth and development across the nation.
References
Centre for Population. (2023, September 14). National, state and territory population, March 2023. Retrieved from Centre for Population Website