Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that is home to around 2,568,927 people. It is the third-most populous city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne, making it a bustling and thriving hub of activity. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the population of Brisbane and some of the interesting facts and data that make this city unique.

Population change

Greater Brisbane increased by 421,500 people (20%) between 2011 and 2021, the rest of the state increased by 319,400 (14%).

The areas with the largest growth were:

• Springfield Lakes (up by 13,500 people), a suburb of Ipswich
• Coomera on the Gold Coast and Murrumba Downs – Griffin in Moreton Bay (both up 11,500)

The areas with the highest growth rates were: 

• Pimpama – North (up by 600%) on the Gold Coast
• Ripley (350%), a suburb of Ipswich
• Dakabin (260%) in Moreton Bay

Population density

The areas with the highest density at June 2021 were all inner Brisbane suburbs:

• West End (7,800 people per sq km)
• Fortitude Valley (7,700)
• Kangaroo Point (7,400) (Source ABS)

Demographics

The population of Brisbane is diverse and made up of people from a variety of cultural backgrounds. The median age of the population is 36 years old, which makes it a relatively young city. Additionally, around 40% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, making it a well-educated population.

Population Growth Rate

Brisbane is also a growing city, with a population growth rate of around 2% per year. This is due in part to the city’s strong economy and high standard of living. The majority of the population lives in the city’s metropolitan area, with the central business district and surrounding suburbs being the most densely populated areas.

Household Income

In terms of employment, the service sector is the largest employer in Brisbane, followed by the retail and healthcare sectors. The median household income in the city is around $80,000 per year, which is considered to be relatively high.

International Students

Another interesting fact about Brisbane is that it is home to a large number of international students. Around 50,000 international students are enrolled in the city’s universities and colleges, which adds to the city’s diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Overall, Brisbane is a city with a diverse and growing population that is characterized by its young, well-educated, and relatively affluent residents. It has a strong economy and a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for both locals and internationals. With a vibrant and diverse culture, excellent education and employment opportunities and a high standard of living, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call Brisbane home.

General Private School Enrolment Process

Step 1 – Experience The School

The first step is to gain an understanding of the school and its culture. Review their website and social media accounts, read or download any relevant prospectus, and arrange a personalised tour with their Admissions team or attend an open day event. This will give you a good sense of what they have to offer and how the school environment will feel to your child.

Step 2 – Application

Once you’ve decided on which schools you would like to apply to, it’s time to submit an application form, due to the competitive nature of places, many parents submit applications to several schools. You can do this online or download an application form from the school’s website. Most applications require a non-refundable application fee as well as a copy of your child’s birth certificate.

Step 3 – Interview

If successful in getting through the first two stages, students and parents may then be invited for an interview with members of the Admissions team or Principal. Copies of your child’s most recent school report and NAPLAN results may be requested prior to the interview. It’s important to demonstrate why your child is suitable for their school during this stage of the process and how your family values align. Parents with a connection to the school, such as being a past student are usually put ahead of waiting list queues.

Step 4 – Offer

After completing all necessary paperwork and interviews, offers are made following the assessment process by each individual school community. If accepted, it’s time for Step 5!

Step 5 – Acceptance of Offer

Once accepted into a private school it’s important that families pay all associated fees promptly so that their place is secured within their chosen school community.

Applying for private schools can be a long process but it doesn’t have to be stressful if you know what steps are required along the way. Experiencing each potential school, submitting an application form, attending interviews and accepting offers are just some of the steps involved in applying for private schools enrolment. By being mindful of these steps ahead of time, applying for private schools can become easier than anticipated!

Brisbane Boys’ College

Brisbane Boys’ College, is an independent school located in Toowong, West Brisbane. An all-boys school that offers education from prep to Year 12. Founded in 1902, the school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, with a wide range of extracurricular activities to choose from. These activities include sport, music, and drama. This school is a great option for parents looking for a traditional, all-boys education for their sons. There are approximately 1432 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $5,158 per Term.

Saint Margaret’s Anglican Girls School

Saint Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, located in Ascot, North-east of Brisbane. Founded in 1895, is an all-girls school that offers education from prep to Year 12. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sport, music, and drama. This school has fantastic grounds and is a great option for parents looking for a traditional, all-girls education for their daughters. There are approximately 1315 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $4,788 per Term.

Saint Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace

Saint Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace, is a Catholic Day School for boys from Years 5 to 12, founded by the Christian Brothers.an all-boys school located in Spring Hill. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sport, music, and drama. Founded in 1875, ‘Terrace’ is a great option for parents looking for an all-boys education with a strong tradition. There are approximately 1665 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $4,272 per term.

All Hallows’ School

All Hallows’ School, is a Catholic day school for girls, located in Fortitude Valley, that offers education from year 5 to Year 12. The school was founded in 1861 and has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sport, music, and drama. This school is a great option for parents looking for a co-educational education with a strong tradition. There are approximately 1586 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $3488 per term.

Clayfield College

Clayfield College, located in Clayfield North-east of Brisbane, is co-educational school that offers education from prep to Year 12. The school was founded in 1931, has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sport, music, and drama. Its motto the Latin Luceat Lux Vestra (“Let Your Light Shine”). This school is a great option for parents looking for a co-educational smaller school. There are approximately 422 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $4,795 per term.

Brisbane Girls Grammar School

Brisbane Girls Grammar School, one of Australia’s leading girls’ schools. Located in the city it offers education from year 7 to Year 12. Founded in 1875 the school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of excellent facilities as well as extracurricular activities, including sport, music, and drama. This school is a great option for parents looking for an all-girls education with a strong tradition. There are approximately 1485 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $7138.75 per term.

Brisbane Grammar School

Brisbane Grammar School, located in the city, is an all-boys school that offers education from year 5 to Year 12. Founded in 1869, the school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular activities (it has been referred to as the “Eton of Australia”), including GPS sport, music, and drama – Nil Sine Labore (Nothing Without Labour) is the school motto. This school is a great option for parents looking for an all-boys education with a strong tradition. There are approximately 1788 students enrolled at this school. Fees from $6325 per term.

These are just a few examples of the many independent schools in Brisbane. Independent schools typically have smaller class sizes and more resources than public schools, but also tend to be more expensive. However, the quality of education, personalized attention, and resources offered in these schools are well worth the investment. Whether you’re looking for an all-boys or all-girls education, or a co-educational option, Brisbane has a wide range of independent schools to choose from. Each of these schools has its own unique philosophy, traditions, and culture, so it’s important to research and visit the schools to find the best fit for your child.

When considering an independent school, it’s important to consider not only the academic reputation of the school, but also the extracurricular opportunities and resources available to students. It’s also important to consider the location of the school, and whether it’s a good fit for your child’s learning style and interests.

It’s worth noting that the enrollment process for independent schools can be quite competitive, so it’s important to start the process early and to be prepared with all the necessary documentation.

Overall, independent schools in Brisbane offer a high-quality education and a wide range of resources and opportunities for students. From the traditional all-boys or all-girls schools to co-educational options, there’s something for everyone. With a little research and planning, you’re sure to find the perfect school for your child in Brisbane.