The chart shows the minimal change in Australia’s population density from 1990 to 2021, consistently remaining at 2 people per square kilometer until 2001, when it increased to 3 people per square kilometer, where it has remained since. Despite Australia's economic growth and significant population increase during this period, its vast land area results in one of the lowest population densities in the world. Most of the population is concentrated in urban areas along the coasts, with vast portions of the interior remaining sparsely populated. This low density reflects the country’s geography, with large areas of desert and arid land limiting habitation and development, even as urban centers experience population growth.
Explore related charts to gain a better understanding of Australia’s annual GDP, Australia’s shifting median age, Australia’s urban population growth.
