Australian Bureau of Statistics : Largest population increase ever

Australia recorded its largest annual population increase ever, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Australia grew by an estimated 307,100 people for the year ended March 2007, the largest increase since record keeping began in 1789. The increase gave Australia an annual growth rate of 1.5% (the highest rate since 1990), and brings the population to an estimated 20.9 million. Net overseas migration contributed 54% (162,600 people) to this growth, which was more than the natural increase of 46% (138,100 people or 273,500 births minus 135,400 deaths). For further information, visit ABS web-site