Urbanization
Around 90% of Australia's population lives in just .22% of the country's land mass, with 85% living 50 kilometers or less from the coasts. The annual rate of urbanization is 1.43% between 2015, and 2020. In the 19th century there was rapid colonial expansion and economic growth, causing a boom in the population. By 1861, 40% of the population was living in the suburbs. This trend towards urbanization continued into the 20th century, making Australia one of the most urbanized countries in the world.
Australia's Population Growth
It is estimated that by 2056, Australia's population will be 42.5 million people. Its infrastructure, job opportunities, and housing will need to be doubled quickly, if Australia is to support all these people. Australia's population has been growing rapidly since 1788, but now that rapid growth is leading to overpopulation. Only 10% of Australia's land is arable, and that might lead to a big challenge in the future, if the population keeps growing at this rate.
Challenges of Urban Sustainability
There are many current issues that Australia has when it comes to urban sustainability. One of these problems is the suburban sprawl. The rapid and unrestricted growth is destroying many of Australia's unique habitats and wildlife. However, many political leaders in Australia are campaigning to have construction companies plan their neighborhoods in a way that will avoid destroying these habitats. There have also been many declarations that ended the urban sprawls in coastal cities. However, there will be more issues down the road with huge amounts of population growth, and nowhere to put new neighborhoods.