Aus population predicted to hit 23m by April

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Created on Thursday, 21 March 2013 17:00

Written by Editorial staff

It has been predicted that Australia's population will hit 23 million people by Anzac Day this year, largely as a result of immigration visas.

Australia receives one new immigrant every two minutes and 20 seconds, or around 1,028 people per day, according to the Daily Telegraph, meaning that immigration is accounting for more than 50 per cent of the country's population growth.

McCrindle Research's Mark McCrindle explained to the publication that based on these figures, the magical number could be reached towards the end of next month.

He said: "When looking at who the 23 millionth person might be, it is more likely that it could be a migrant than a baby."

If that would be the case, the timing would fit in well with Australia celebrating Harmony Day today (March 21), with events taking place across the country that recognise what multiculturalism means for Australia.

The theme of this year's celebrations is 'Many Stories - One Australia', which means that despite the 22 million people in the country, everyone has their own unique story to tell.

Up to 700 events will take place across New South Wales alone, with schools putting on celebrations, businesses hosting functions and local town areas putting on presentations.

The events will extend past today, with the NRL hosting the 2013 NRL Harmony Day Festival this Saturday. The day will be hosted by one of the game's most well-respected players, Lebanese born Hazem El Masri. He was no doubt chosen for his strong community ties, Muslim beliefs and his legendary status as one of rugby league's best players.

Minister for immigration and citizenship Brendan O'Connor explained that it is important to recognise the significant role of migrants in life.

"The values of inclusiveness, respect and belonging are fundamental to the development of Australia's successful multicultural framework.

"These values are at the core of what Harmony Day is about. This is a fantastic time to reflect on and celebrate the rich patchwork of cultures which make Australia such a fantastic place to live."

The Harmony Day began back in 1999, and since then more than 50,000 events have taken place across the country - all with the agenda of promoting the diversity that makes up Australia, according to Kate Lundy, minister for multicultural affairs.

"Together we can showcase the spirit of the cultural diversity which has made Australia what it is today," she said.