Population June quarter 2017

Population

The Territory’s estimated resident population (ERP) grew by 0.5 per cent to 246 105 in the June quarter 2017. Natural increase (+836 persons) and net overseas migration (+995) added to the Territory's population, while net interstate migration (‑716 persons) detracted from the population.

The Territory recorded the highest quarterly ERP growth of all jurisdictions, equal with Victoria. Other jurisdictions ranged from 0.1 per cent in Tasmania to 0.4 per cent in Queensland. Nationally, ERP grew by 0.4 per cent in the quarter.

In annual terms, Territory population growth has slowed over the past year down from 0.3 per cent in the June quarter 2016 to 0.1 per cent in the June quarter 2017 (Chart 1). Nationally, population growth increased slightly from 1.5 per cent to 1.6 per cent, over the same period.

The Territory recorded the lowest annual increase of all jurisdictions, which ranged from 0.6 per cent in Tasmania and South Australia to 2.3 per cent in Victoria (Chart 2).

Net interstate migration

Net interstate migration in the Territory is highly volatile, reflecting the young and transient nature of the Territory’s population.

In the June quarter 2017, net interstate migration detracted 716 persons from the population. This reflects 3384 arrivals, offset by 4100 departures in the quarter.

In the year to June 2017, the Territory recorded a net loss of 3490 persons to interstate jurisdictions. This is greater than the year to June 2016, when there was a net loss of 2696 persons.

Net overseas migration

In the year to June 2017, the Territory recorded a positive net overseas migration of 923 persons. Net overseas migration has declined from historically high levels in 2012 and 2013, and has dropped below long term trend levels (Chart 3). Nationally, net overseas migration was 245 408 persons in year to June 2017, compared to 193 042 the previous year.

Natural increase

In the June quarter 2017, the Territory recorded a positive natural increase of 836 persons. This was comprised of 1110 births and 274 deaths.

In the year to June 2017, natural increase contributed 2932 persons to the Territory's population, which was slightly higher than the previous year’s number (2837).