Internal Migration in Australia 1991-1996 Overview and the Overseas Born , by Dr Martin Bell and Professor Graeme Hugo of the University of Adelaide, is an initiative of the Commonwealth, State and Territory Ministers for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs. While the broad structure of internal migration in Australia remained similar to the 1980s, subtle shifts occurred in the 1990s, including a small increase in the proportion of people changing residence. There were higher rates of movement among people aged between 30 and 50. The numbers of people moving from South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria in favour of Queensland increased dramatically, although the numbers leaving Victoria have dropped significantly since 1996. The report shows the average Australian male can expect to make about 12.8 moves over his lifetime, and the average female about 13.6.
Women make more moves than men because of their longer life expectancy.
Despite Australia's large geographic size, most people move short distances, the average being just over 16km. Movement is highest among young adults, the separated and divorced, the unemployed, those living in rental housing, professionals and people working in public administration, and the hospitality sector. There was continued population growth in coastal areas, as well as sustained movement from much of the inland. The report shows these changes reflect a combination of long-term trends, particularly in relation to economic restructuring and population ageing. The base census data enables further important research into the Australian population, which in turn enables government to address community needs.