Why invest in Australia? Overview of Australia Australia is the world’s largest island with an area of 7,692,024 square kilometers, which is only slightly smaller than mainland USA or about 20 times the size of Japan. Australia has a very low population density, equivalent to only 2.6 people per square kilometer. The majority of the population, however, is concentrated in the urban centers of two widely separated coastal regions in the south-east and south-west of the continent. The national capital is Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Australia is the lowest, flattest and, apart from Antarctica, the driest continent. It features a wide range of climatic zones from the tropical regions of the north, through the arid interior, to more temperate regions in the south.
Australia is famous for the remote outback of its interior but with un-spoilt beaches, tropical rainforest, rugged mountain ranges and vast deserts, Australia is in fact a country of contrasts. Australia has 14 World Heritage Listed Areas including the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, more commonly known as Ayers Rock. 
Economic ConditionsAustralian economic growth moderated in the first half of 2004, however the Australian economy remains very healthy and economic conditions remain favorable. The OECD has forecast Australian annual GDP growth to remain above 3.5% during 2005 and 2006. Two consecutive interest rate rises (the fist since June 2002) occurred during late 2003 bringing the average variable rate up to 7.05%. Exchange rates have shown considerable growth since 2001. Exchange rates have shown considerable growth since 2001. The Australian dollar recovered from a low when the Australian dollar was worth less than US$.50. As at November 2004 the value of Australia's dollar had risen to US$.78. Australia’s labor force is approximately 10.32 million. 72% of Australia’s workers are in full time positions, with the remaining 28% in part time roles. Australia’s current employment level is at a historic low record which is testament to the strength of the nation’s economy. The Australian PopulationIn Australia the demand for dwellings continually outpaces supply as residents pursue the ‘Australian dream’ of owning their own home. The below figure shows the population is concentrated around Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, which have the highest property prices and have shown the strongest population growth.
Figures show that 69% of Australians currently own, or are in the process of purchasing, their own home. The rental market is also very strong, with 29% of dwellings being rented, which is related to the popularity of property investment in capital cities and regional centers. The majority of dwellings (76%) are houses and 13% are units.
Figures also show that couples with children make up the largest proportion of households (54%). However, household sizes are declining. Currently, the average household size is 2.6 people. (Ten years ago the average was 2.9 people.) The number of people remaining unmarried or postponing marriage or children is increasing so there are large numbers of couples without children (21%). The divorce rate is also increasing which results in many single parent families (12%) and people living alone (9%).
Australia’s population is approximatley 20,587,092 with positive growth of 1.2% per annum. Overseas migration accounts for over half of this growth. With citizens from over 200 countries, Australia is a multicultural society. 23% of the resident populations were born overseas.
Like most Western countries, Australia has an aging population with 13% over the age of 65. This can be attributed to falling fertility rates and increased life expectancy. The median age is 34.3. Conclusion – Why Invest in Australia? Australia’s resilient economy has avoided the economic downturn experienced by many OECD countries during 2001 and 2002. It boasts consistently strong GDP growth, stable interest rates, rising exchange rates, record high levels of employment and a low rate of inflation. The property market greatly contributed to this impressive economic performance. Positive population growth, declining household sizes and rising incomes ensures that demand for dwellings constantly outpaces supply and prices continue to rise. Capital cities along the east coast have been the strongest performers. Australia offers many diverse living options and is truly multi-cultural society. Based on historical trends in the property market and key economic indicators, the Australian property market is considered to be a sound investment opportunity. For more information please Contact Us or request our Property List to access Researched Properties in Australia. | 
