The largest non-capital city in Australia is Gold Coast.
Understanding Australia's Major Urban Centers
Australia's most populous urban areas are predominantly its state and territory capital cities. These cities serve as primary economic, political, and cultural hubs for their respective regions.
According to 2021 population data, the largest cities in Australia, all of which are capital cities, include:
City | Inhabitants (in millions) |
---|---|
Sydney | 5.26 |
Melbourne | 4.98 |
Brisbane | 2.57 |
Perth | 2.19 |
These figures highlight the significant population concentration in the established capital cities across the nation.
The Rise of Non-Capital Hubs
While state capitals dominate in terms of population, several large regional centers and non-capital cities have experienced substantial growth. Gold Coast, located in Queensland, stands out as the largest among these. In 2021, its population was approximately 0.72 million inhabitants (over 700,000 residents).
The Gold Coast is renowned for its extensive coastline, surfing beaches, and elaborate system of inland canals and waterways. Its economy is largely driven by tourism, but it also boasts growing sectors in education, health, and marine industries, contributing to its rapid expansion and status as a major urban center outside of Australia's capital cities. Its continuous development reflects a broader trend of urbanization and economic diversification in Australia's coastal regions.