Australia's fertility rate falls to historic low of 1.48 births per woman
Treasury warns Australia's fertility rate is now 1.48 births per woman, well below the 2.1 replacement level.
Australia's fertility rate has hit a historic low of 1.48 births per woman. The Treasury projects it will decline further to 1.34 by 2065-66.
The replacement level is the rate at which a population replaces itself without migration. The replacement level is about 2.1 births per woman.
Delayed childbearing is a major factor. People postpone parenthood to establish careers, secure housing, and arrange childcare.
Other influences include childcare costs, housing affordability, and workplace flexibility. If birth rates and migration fall below expectations, Australia's population would be 1.9 million smaller by 2065-66.
The economy would be 7.4 per cent smaller by 2065-66. Australia's ageing population means the country will rely more on migration.
This migration supports the workforce and economy.
- 1.48 births per woman
- Current fertility rate
- 1.34 births per woman
- Projected rate by 2065-66
- 1.9 million smaller
- Population deficit by 2065-66
- 7.4 per cent smaller
- Economy impact by 2065-66
Why it mattersAustralia faces a shrinking working-age population relative to retirees. This threatens tax revenue and economic growth. Unless migration rises, these threats remain.
AustraliaAustralians are choosing smaller families later in life due to financial pressures and career priorities. Migration is now critical to sustaining population growth and funding services.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
