Australia’s fertility rate has reached an all-time low, prompting increased reliance on immigration to sustain population growth. The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that the fertility rate fell to 1.48 births per woman in 2024, marking the lowest figure recorded since 1921. While there were 292,318 registered births this year, reflecting a 1.9 percent increase from 2023, the overall trend indicates a significant shift in family planning among Australian parents.
This downturn in fertility rates has been consistent across all states and territories since 2019. In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), the fertility rate has plummeted to a national low of just 1.27, positioning it among the lowest rates globally. In New South Wales (NSW), the number of recorded births has dropped to its lowest level in two decades. The replacement rate necessary to maintain a stable population without immigration is 2.1 births per woman, highlighting a growing demographic concern.
The release of these figures coincides with ongoing discussions about immigration policies in Australia. According to the Resolve Political Monitor, a majority of voters support a significant reduction in the country’s immigration intake. In 2024, Australia’s net overseas migration stood at 341,000 people, a decrease of 37 percent from the peak of 538,000 in the 2022-23 period. Coalition immigration spokesman Paul Scarr emphasized that immigration levels should be aligned with the nation’s housing supply challenges.
Personal stories reflect this trend as well. Domenica Calarco, a 32-year-old social media content creator, recently welcomed her first child, Dove, with partner Jarod Bogunovich, aged 36. Calarco had initially anticipated becoming a mother before turning 30 but found herself waiting until she felt financially stable. After moving into a home on her parents’ property and securing a more consistent income through social media, she and her partner were able to consider starting a family.
The implications of these declining fertility rates are significant, raising questions about future workforce availability and economic growth in Australia. As the nation grapples with the challenges posed by an aging population, the reliance on immigration as a solution could become increasingly pronounced.
With the birth rate continuing to fall, policymakers will need to weigh the potential benefits of immigration against the immediate needs of Australian families. The current demographic landscape suggests a critical need for comprehensive strategies to address both population growth and the social support systems that enable families to thrive.
