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“Australia’s population growth has slowed to just 0.14% over the past year, the slowest rate of growth for more than 100 years,” stated Nick Ward, HIA’s Senior Economist.
ABS data released today shows the estimated resident population in all states and territories. This is the compilation of the natural rate of population growth, overseas migration and interstate migration.
“Population growth has slowed as net overseas migration, previously a source of growth, has reversed and turned negative,” added Mr Ward.
“The sharpest decline in resident population has occurred in Victoria where the population contracted by 0.64 per cent. The number of people departing Victoria for other states and overseas is more than double the natural population growth over the past year.
“All other jurisdictions maintained positive population growth, albeit at just a fraction of their pre-COVID rate of growth.
“ The loss of population growth is a concern for a number of reasons. Population growth is a key driver of economic growth. Australia needs economic growth to maintain the standard of living all Australians expect. Growth supports the ability of Governments to deliver the services and support Australians need and expect.
“Prior to the COVID recession, the average net migrant was 24 years old and the average Australian resident was 39 years of age. Australians aged 65 years and over make up more than 16per cent of the population. This share is rising.
“ The loss of overseas students and skilled migration has almost certainly seen the average age of migrants increase and accelerated the ageing of the Australian population.
“ A return to stable and reliable skilled migration pathways is central to a return to stable economic growth,” concluded Mr. Ward.
Population growth has fallen significantly, but remained positive: Qld (+0.85 per cent), WA (+0.57 per cent), NT (+0.48 per cent), ACT (+0.39 per cent), TAS(+0.39 per cent), SA (+15 per cent), NSW (+0.14%). Population growth in Victoria declined by -0.64%.
The Northern Territory's housing market continues to outperform many parts of the country, with strong dwelling price growth, rising building approvals and sustained investment activity demonstrating confidence in the Territory's future.
HIA commented on the Explanation of Intended Effect for Standard and model conditions of consent (the EIE). It is understood the EIE explains the proposed amendments to State Environmental Planning Policy 2021 that will give effect to consistent conditions of consent for residential development across the state.
Home building approvals in Tasmania have climbed over the past year, though the numbers remain well below the level needed to meet demand.
The latest building approvals data shows the ACT residential building market remains subdued, with detached housing continuing to struggle and the momentum that emerged in the apartment market during 2025 now showing signs of fading.