Australia’s population passes 21 million
Australia’s population reached a milestone 21 million during the June quarter 2007 fuelled by the highest population growth rate since 1989, according to figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
The increase of 315,700 people resulted in an estimated 1.5% growth rate.
Net overseas migration contributed to over half (56% or 177,600 people) of Australia’s growth, while natural increase contributed 44% (272,900 births minus 134,800 deaths).
Western Australia recorded the highest growth rate of all states and territories (2.3%), followed by Queensland at 2.2%, Northern Territory 2.0%, Australian Capital Territory 1.7%, Victoria 1.5%, New South Wales 1.1%, South Australia 1.0% and Tasmania at 0.7%.
