Australia’s population grew by 1.4 per cent

Australia's population grew by 1.4 per cent during the year ending 31 March 2020, according to the latest figures released by the ABS.

 

ABS Demography Director Lauren Ford said: "The population at 31 March 2020 was 25.6 million people, following an annual increase of 357,000 people."

 

Natural increase accounted for 38.2 per cent of annual population growth, while net overseas migration accounted for the remaining 61.8 per cent.

 

There were 305,000 births and 168,500 deaths registered in Australia during the year ending 31 March 2020. Natural increase during this period was 136,500 people, a decrease of 5.0 per cent from the previous year.

 

There were 564,200 overseas migration arrivals and 343,700 departures during the year ending 31 March 2020, resulting in net overseas migration of 220,500 people. Net overseas migration was down 12.0 per cent compared to the previous year. This was driven by an increase in overseas migration departures (20.2 per cent).

 

Statistics in this release are partially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting Australian Government closure of the international border from 20 March 2020. Further impacts are expected next quarter against the backdrop of continued travel restrictions.