Population projections are published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Australian population projections are not predictions or forecasts, but are derived from holding assumed levels of births, deaths and migration constant into the future. Three projection series are presented in Australian Demographic Statistics for Australia population projections and Indigenous Australian population projections, and their assumptions are as follows:

Australia population projections: High Series assumes the total fertility rate (TFR), life expectancy, and net oversees migration (NOM) will increase.  Medium Series assumes the TFR will remain steady, declining improvement in life expectancy, and an increase in NOM. Low Series assumes the TFR will decline, declining improvement in life expectancy, and a decrease in NOM.

Indigenous Australian population projections: Series A (Series A = High series) assumes constant fertility rates, an annual 2% increase in paternity rates, a small increase in life expectancy, and zero overseas migration. Series B (Series B = Medium series) assumes an annual decrease of 0.5% in fertility rates, 1% annual increase in paternity rates, a small increase in life expectancy, and zero overseas migration. Series C (Series C = Low series) assumes an annual decrease of 1.0% in fertility rates; constant paternity rates; a minor increase in life expectancy, and zero overseas migration.

Other dashboard menu options that use Australian population data include Australian population and Australian population - age and sex.

See ABS - Population Projections, Australia (https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/population-projections-australia/latest-release) and ABS - Estimates and Projections, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians (https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-peoples/estimates-and-projections-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-australians/latest-release) for further information, including in-depth commentary and analysis, in particular the source data Quality Declaration.

Source references:

Australian population projections: Data downloads; Data cube; Projected population, components of change and summary statistics - Australia, state/territory, greater capital city and rest of state, 2022 (base) to 2071

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population projections: Data Explorer datasets; Projected population, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, Australia, state and territories, 2016 to 2031