Almost 30% of Australians were born overseas — making it one of the world's most immigrant-rich nations. Here's where Australia's immigrant population comes from and what that means for new arrivals.
Australia: One of the World's Most Multicultural Nations
Australia has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents of any country in the world. As of the most recent census, approximately 30% of Australia's 26 million population were born overseas — over 7.7 million people.
Immigration is not a marginal feature of Australian society — it is central to how the country functions and grows.
The Top Countries of Birth for Australian Immigrants
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS):
Country of Birth Approximate Number
England 980,000
India 780,000
China (excl. Hong Kong, Taiwan) 650,000
New Zealand 570,000
Philippines 310,000
Vietnam 270,000
South Africa 210,000
Italy 175,000
Sri Lanka 160,000
Nepal 155,000
The UK has historically been the largest source country, though India has been the dominant source of skilled migrants in recent years and the total India-born community is growing rapidly.
South Africans in Australia
South Africa is consistently one of Australia's top 10 source countries. The South African community in Australia is estimated at 210,000–250,000 people, with strong concentrations in Perth (Western Australia) and the eastern states.
South Africans are among the most valued immigrant groups in Australia — they typically arrive with strong English language skills, relevant qualifications, and a cultural compatibility with Australian life that eases the transition significantly.
Perth has been a particularly strong destination for South African immigrants due to the mining sector, climate similarities, and an existing large South African community.
Where Do Immigrant Groups Settle?
English-born immigrants: Widely distributed across all states
Indian-born: Strong in Sydney and Melbourne, particularly in outer suburban areas
Chinese-born: Sydney and Melbourne city areas, with strong student populations
New Zealand-born: Across all states; New Zealanders can live and work in Australia without a visa
South African-born: Strong in Perth, growing presence in Sydney and Brisbane
Does Community Presence Help New Immigrants?
Yes, significantly. Established immigrant communities provide:
Informal job networks and referrals
Cultural familiarity and social support
Practical knowledge of local neighbourhoods and services
Community organisations and support groups
For South Africans, Perth in particular has a well-established community with South African restaurants, churches, sporting clubs, and professional networks that make settling in significantly easier.
Australia's Multicultural Policy
Australia officially embraces multiculturalism as a national policy. Immigrants are not expected to abandon their cultural identity — they are encouraged to maintain it alongside participation in Australian civic life.
This inclusive environment is one reason Australia consistently ranks highly in global quality of life and immigrant satisfaction surveys.
NWI has helped thousands of South Africans make the move to Australia. Our team understands the journey personally — many of us have made it ourselves.