Australian Government Report Projects Deaths to Outnumber Births by 2060s

1-Minute Brief

Australia faces significant demographic shifts as an ageing population and declining birthrate reshape economic and social planning.

Key Facts

• The number of Australians aged 85 or older is projected to triple by 2065–66.
• The seventh intergenerational report forecasts more Australians will die than be born in 40 years’ time.
• Government forecasts indicate deaths will outnumber births by the 2060s.
• Labor has stated it prefers investment in early childhood education over a new 'baby bonus' to address the declining birthrate.
• Life expectancy at birth is projected to reach 89 for women and 86 for men by 2066.

What Happened

Australia's latest intergenerational report projects that, due to an ageing population and declining birthrate, annual deaths will exceed births by the 2060s. The report also forecasts a significant increase in the population aged 85 and older.

Why It Matters

These demographic changes present challenges for economic growth, workforce sustainability, and social services, prompting policy discussions on migration, family support, and long-term planning.

What's Next

Policymakers are expected to debate measures such as migration policy and early childhood education investment to address the implications of an ageing population and lower birthrate.