Australia’s population is predicted to reach 30 million between 2029 to 2033, according to the latest figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). 

The population may reach up to 35 million as early as 2038, and 49 million by 2066. 

The population projections are based on future levels of fertility, mortality and migration assumptions. 

“The projected time for the nation to grow by 5 million people on current indications will be similar, if not a little shorter, than the 14 years it took to grow from 20 million to 25 million,” Director of Demography at the ABS Anthony Grubb said. 

“Looking further ahead, based on the medium of our three main projection assumption series, Australia could add a further 10 million to our current 25 million by the year 2043,” Mr Grubb said. 

“However under our higher range of fertility, mortality and migration assumptions, the population would reach 35 million 5 years earlier in 2038. Conversely, under lower assumptions the population would only reach 35 million a decade later in 2053,” he added. 

According to the projections, New South Wales will remain as the largest state with a population of between approximately 9 to 9.3 million. 

Victoria is expected to experience the fastest increase in population, reaching up to approximately between 7 to 8 million by 2027. 

However, Melbourne could possibly overtake Sydney as Australia’s biggest city between 2031 and 2057. 

Queensland is also due to experience a high growth, increasing to 6 million people in 2027. 

Western Australia is expected to increase to 3 million by 2027, and South Australia to increase to 2 million. 

In addition, Australian Capital Territory is projected to increase to between 479,000 and 510,000 in 2027, and have almost the same population as Tasmania in nine years time.