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Top 5 Cities with Most Chinese Population in Australia 2025

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5 Cities with Most Chinese Population in Australia

Are you struggling to find the perfect destination that offers a high quality of life, diverse culture, and countless opportunities?

Australia has long been recognized as one of the world's most desirable countries to live, work, and retire, especially for Chinese Australians seeking a better life.

However, with the ever-growing Chinese population in Australia, finding the correct city that suits your lifestyle, investment opportunities, and cultural preferences can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide dives into the top cities where Chinese immigrants have settled, providing valuable insights into why Australia is the best choice for those looking to blend into a multicultural society while experiencing a high standard of living.

Chinese Population in Australia

  1. The Rise of the Chinese Population in Australia
  2. Top Cities for Chinese Australians to Live
  3. The Broader Impact of Chinese Migration in Australia
  4. Australia's Diverse and Inclusive Culture

1. The Rise of the Chinese Population in Australia

The Rise of the Chinese Population in Australia

According to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia’s total population had grown to 27,204,809 people at 30 June 2024.

The country's overseas-born population contributed significantly to this growth, with net overseas migration being 445,600.

As of 2024, Chinese immigrants comprise a considerable part of the broader Australian population, with over 1 million individuals identifying with Chinese ancestry or Chinese heritage.

The Chinese Australian community has a rich history in Australia, with roots dating back to the gold rush era in the 1850s.

Today, the Chinese-born population is one of the fastest-growing groups, contributing to the diverse fabric of Australia.

In recent years, Australia’s migration policies have seen an increase in permanent migration from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, making Chinese Australians one of the most influential groups in shaping the country's future.

2. Top Cities for Chinese Australians to Live

The geographic distribution of Chinese immigrants shows a preference for several vital cities.

Let’s explore the top 5 cities where Chinese Australians have established strong communities.

a. Sydney

Sydney

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, continues to be a hub for Chinese Australians.

In 2025, with a population of 5,249,000, a 1.23% increase from 2024, Sydney is the second-largest Australian city.

Year Population Percentage Movement (+/-)
2025 5,249,000 +1.23%
2024 5,185,000 +1.25%
2023 5,121,000 +1.27%
2022 5,057,000 +1.3%
2021 (base) 4,992,000 -

An estimated 11.22% of Sydney’s residents identify as Chinese Australians.

New South Wales (NSW) has seen a significant rise in Chinese migration.

Sydney is the primary destination for Chinese immigrants due to its thriving economy, educational institutions, and vibrant Chinese culture.

i. Why Sydney?

  • Excellent opportunities in the labor force
  • High-quality educational institutions such as the University of Sydney
  • A strong presence of Chinese businesses and communities

b. Melbourne

Melbourne

Melbourne is the second most popular city for Chinese Australians. As of 2025, with a population of 5,392,000, a 1.43% increase from 2024, it ranks number one as the largest population in Australian cities.

Year Population Percentage Movement (+/-)
2025 5,392,000 +1.43%
2024 5,316,000 +1.55%
2023 5,235,000 +1.63%
2022 5,151,000 +1.78%
2021 (base) 5,061,000 -

An estimated 8.93% of the city's population identifies as having Chinese ancestry.

This city perfectly balances work opportunities and a rich cultural experience.

Victoria, where Melbourne is located, has also seen an influx of Chinese immigrants in recent years.

i. Why Melbourne?

  • Recognized for its high standard of living
  • Home to a range of educational institutions, including Monash University
  • Slightly lower living costs compared to Sydney

c. Brisbane

Brisbane

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, has experienced rapid growth in its Chinese population.

As of 2025, Brisbane's population will be 2,568,000, a 1.26% increase from 2024.

Year Population Percentage Movement (+/-)
2025 2,568,000 +1.26%
2024 2,536,000 +1.24%
2023 2,505,000 +1.33%
2022 2,472,000 +1.35%
2021 (base) 2,439,000 -

It will rank third as the largest population in Australian cities.

The 2032 Olympic Games are expected to boost its economy further and attract more Chinese immigrants.

This city's laid-back lifestyle, affordable housing, and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive destination.

i. Why Brisbane?

  • A more relaxed pace of life compared to Sydney and Melbourne
  • Affordable housing and a lower median age
  • Proximity to the Gold Coast, a famous tourist destination

d. Adelaide

Adelaide

Adelaide has become an increasingly popular choice for Chinese immigrants, offering a more affordable cost of living than other major cities.

Adelaide's population 2025 will be 1,393,000, a 1.02% increase from 2024.

Year Population Percentage Movement (+/-)
2025 1,393,000 +1.02%
2024 1,379,000 +0.88%
2023 1,367,000 +0.81%
2022 1,356,000 +0.82%
2021 (base) 1,345,000 -

It ranks fifth as the city with the most significant population in Australia.

South Australia is known for its high-quality wine, agriculture, and excellent educational institutions.

i. Why Adelaide?

  • Quality educational institutions like the University of Adelaide
  • Renowned for producing some of Australia’s best wine
  • Affordable lifestyle with opportunities for permanent residents

e. Perth

Perth

Perth stands out for its sunny weather and affordable cost of living.

As the largest city in Western Australia, Perth is becoming more attractive to Chinese migrants seeking a better work-life balance.

Perth's population 2025 will be 2,169,000, a 1.21% increase from 2024.

Year Population Percentage Movement (+/-)
2025 2,169,000 +1.21%
2024 2,143,000 +1.18%
2023 2,118,000 +1.19%
2022 2,093,000 +1.26%
2021 (base) 2,067,000 -

It ranks fourth among Australian cities in terms of population.

i. Why Perth?

  • Economic solid prospects and job opportunities
  • Affordable housing compared to Sydney and Melbourne
  • A welcoming and multicultural environment

3. The Broader Impact of Chinese Migration in Australia

The Broader Impact of Chinese Migration in Australia

Chinese Australians have contributed significantly to the broader Australian population, enriching the culture, economy, and social fabric.

In recent years, the number of long-term visa holders from China has risen, and many have transitioned to becoming permanent residents and Australian citizens.

This has further solidified the Chinese Australian presence in cities like Canberra, where the Chinese diaspora has grown substantially.

Notable Trends:

  • The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that the Chinese-born population has grown by over 25% in the last decade.
  • Many Chinese Australians have entered the country through student visas, later becoming permanent residents.
  • The Chinese Australian community has also contributed significantly to Australia’s financial sector, with a noticeable impact on real estate and trade. The Australian Financial Review highlights Chinese investments.

4. Australia's Diverse and Inclusive Culture

Australia's Diverse and Inclusive Culture

Australia today is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, with over 200 nationalities represented.

The influence of Chinese Australians is evident in many aspects, from the Chinese New Year celebrations to the growing popularity of Mandarin language courses in schools nationwide.

Key Takeaways:

  • Australia’s inclusive culture has made it one of the most attractive destinations for Chinese immigrants.
  • The People's Republic of China significantly contributes to Australia's overseas-born population.
  • Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have developed solid Chinese Australian communities, contributing to Australia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Chinese Australian

Australia continues to be a top destination for Chinese immigrants, offering opportunities for education, employment, and a high quality of life.

From Sydney's bustling streets to Melbourne's vibrant arts scene, Chinese Australians have found a home in Australia and made significant contributions to the country's growth and development.

If you’re looking to explore investment opportunities or want to experience life in one of the world's most livable countries, Australia offers a diverse and welcoming environment that embraces all cultures.


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