Western Australia has recorded the fastest population growth of any state or territory.
According to ABS data released in March, Western Australia recorded the fastest population growth in the year to September 30, rising 2.2 per cent, or about 66,000 people.
Queensland and Victoria both grew by 1.7 per cent, adding 97,300 and 122,000 people respectively.
The Northern Territory’s population rose by 1.4 per cent, or 3,700 people, while the ACT grew by 1.3 per cent, or 6,500 people.
South Australia added 21,100 people, up 1.1 per cent, while Tasmania recorded the smallest increase, at 0.3 per cent, or 1,700 people.
Last October, ABS data on fertility rates showed there were 1.48 babies per woman on average in 2024 — a record low and a dip from 1.5 the previous year. "We have an ageing population, we are living longer, having fewer children," Allen said.