Historic Milestone: Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Population Hits the One Million Mark
In a significant milestone for the country’s Indigenous population, Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population has reached a major landmark, surpassing the one million mark for the first time in recorded history.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the estimated number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Australia as of June 2022 is 1,033,744. This represents a significant increase from the 2016 census figure of 798,400, indicating a growth rate of 29.4% over the past six years.
This historic milestone is a testament to the resilience and determination of Australia’s Indigenous people, who have faced centuries of colonialism, dispossession, and systemic discrimination. Despite these challenges, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have maintained their cultural identities, languages, and traditions, and have made significant contributions to Australian society.
The growth of the Indigenous population is attributed to a combination of factors, including improved healthcare, increased access to education, and rising birth rates. The ABS data also reveals that the median age of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has decreased slightly, from 24.5 years in 2016 to 24.1 years in 2022, indicating a younger and more vibrant population.
"This is a momentous day for our nation, and we acknowledge the significant achievements of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," said the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney. "This milestone is a testament to the strength and vitality of our Indigenous cultures, and we recognize the ongoing challenges and disparities that remain."
The growth of the Indigenous population has important implications for the country’s social, economic, and political landscape. It highlights the need for greater investment in Indigenous health, education, and employment initiatives, as well as increased representation and recognition of Indigenous peoples in mainstream Australian society.
"This milestone is not just about numbers; it’s about the ongoing struggle for recognition, justice, and self-determination," said Professor Marcia Langton, a prominent Indigenous academic and advocate. "We urge the Australian government to recognize the significant contributions of our peoples and to address the ongoing disparities in health, education, and economic outcomes."
The one million mark is a significant achievement, but it also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous Australians. Despite the progress made, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to experience higher rates of poverty, poor health, and limited access to education and employment opportunities.
As Australia marks this historic milestone, it is essential that we recognize the significance of this achievement and commit to addressing the ongoing disparities and challenges faced by Indigenous peoples. This includes implementing policies and programs that prioritize Indigenous health, education, and economic development, as well as promoting greater representation and recognition of Indigenous peoples in mainstream Australian society.
The one million mark is a testament to the strength and resilience of Australia’s Indigenous peoples, and it presents an opportunity for the country to come together and work towards a more equitable and just future for all Australians.