Brisbane Population Estimates – VIF2023
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and Australia’s third most populous city, boasts 7 of its state’s most populated local government areas (LGAs). Furthermore, Brisbane remains renowned as a place where one can still purchase affordable homes and land.
Brisbane experienced the highest annual growth rate among all capital cities from 2021-22, driven by both natural expansion and net internal migration.
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Population Estimates
The VIF2023 data explorer offers up-to-date population estimates and projections at national, state, major region and capital city (as defined by Australian Bureau of Statistics Greater Capital City Statistical Area definitions) levels. Additionally, population estimates at Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) as well as key components of population change such as natural increase, interstate migration and net overseas migration are provided across Australia.
According to new population projections, Brisbane will become home to half of Queenslanders within 10 years. Under high growth scenarios, this could take place by 2028; under low and medium growth scenarios it would occur by 2029 respectively. Natural increase is driving this growth while interstate migration also contributes significantly. Net overseas migration may make a smaller but still substantial contribution. Those moving into Brisbane will come from all corners of the globe.
Demographics
Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland and Australia’s third-most populous city. It takes its name from the Brisbane River which runs through its central business district. Brisbane is famous for its vibrant culture, diverse economy and ever-expanding population.
Although Brisbane was temporarily set back by flood in the 21st century, its spirit continues to thrive – becoming one of the fastest growing cities globally.
Brisbane residents typically occupy professional, clerical and administrative workers; technicians/trades workers; managers; community/personal service workers and sales workers. Most residents own private dwellings.
Brisbane residents most commonly speak English and Mandarin at home; other spoken languages may include Italian, Greek and Vietnamese. Most households consist of married couples living together; nearly all households own two vehicles for convenient commuting times of 28 minutes on average.
Population Growth
Brisbane continues to make an impressionful statement about itself with its robust economy, vibrant culture and growing population. Residents remain optimistic for the future with strong focus on innovation and technology as well as world-class education and talent development programs.
According to Informed Decisions, Brisbane’s middle ring suburbs are predicted to experience the greatest population growth within five years. These suburbs include Indooroopilly, Toowong, Woolloonga, Redland Bay Cleveland and Wynnum and are anticipated to experience growth by more than three million in 2031.
South East Queensland’s population is expected to hit 6 million by 2046, as baby boomers age and more people move out on their own and into units, townhouses and modern terrace houses. Gold Coast and Ipswich will experience substantial population increases; regional Queensland saw growth by 102,700 in 2021-22 reflecting an uptick in overseas migration after experiencing a dip the prior year.
Population Changes
Capital city growth surged back to life during 2021-22 due to an upturn in net overseas migration; however, this still lagged behind previous rates of expansion.
Australia-wide, Australia saw population gains that were concentrated in outer suburbs of capital cities such as Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. These include places such as Queensland’s Gold and Sunshine Coasts as well as parts of metropolitan Melbourne, Sydney and Perth.
Brisbane saw the highest percentage increases in suburban areas where developers could introduce detached housing developments, including Chambers Flat, Pallara/Willawong Forest Lake and Greenbank/North Maclean which are all located 10-30 minutes south of the CBD with median house prices below $1 million. “Brisbane is experiencing strong population growth where affordability is key driver; including through new home construction,” notes Rawnsley. This growth reflects its vibrant economy and job market.
