Australian population by Ethnicity

There are a number of different ways of measuring the population of an area, all of which give an insight into the size of the place and its rate of growth over different time periods. The Census counts people where they are on the night of the Census (enumerated population) and also by where they usually live (usual residence). Both these populations are useful and form the basis for a range of characteristics collected in the Census.

However, the most accurate count of the total population is Estimated Resident Population, which factors in an estimate of those missed in the Census and those who were overseas on Census night. It is usually higher than either Census count, and is also updated annually after the Census, providing preliminary estimates for up to 5 years.

This page provides the three population counts for Australian Capital Territory at the last Census, with comparisons to previous Census years for the Census counts only. The current estimate for Australian Capital Territory at the most recent year available is shown at the top of the page. This figure is a preliminary estimate only and is subject to review after the next Census data are released. Please use with caution.

Also included are a range of sub-population groups and key statistics from the Census (usual resident) population, such as citizens, employed persons and Indigenous population.

These figures all provide the context for the size of the population and growth rate within Australian Capital Territory and should be looked at in conjunction with other basic demographic information, such as Age Structure, Dwelling Type and Household Size.