Australia’s population is projected to reach 28 million in 2026, even as the country experiences a sharp slowdown in growth due to fewer overseas arrivals and a persistently low birth rate.
According to the latest 2025 Population Statement, national population growth is expected to fall to 1.3% this year, down from 1.5% the previous year the slowest rate on record.
Migration Decline Driving the Slowdown
The report attributes the slowdown to a drop in migrant arrivals and a rise in departures.
Net overseas migration is forecast to fall to 260,000 in 2026, roughly half the level recorded in 2023, when migration surged as Australia reopened after the pandemic.
A significant portion of the decline is expected to come from temporary visa holders who arrived in the post‑COVID period and are now reaching the end of their visa validity, prompting many to leave the country.
Immigration Set to Be a Major Political Flashpoint
Immigration is shaping up to be a high‑stakes political issue this year.
The federal opposition has signalled it will intensify pressure on the government over migrant intake levels.
The Coalition which has not yet released its full migration platform has indicated it intends to propose a tougher English‑language requirement for prospective migrants as part of its policy framework.
+ There are no comments
Add yours