To inform the City of Darebin's Cultural Diversity Action Plan, the Council required an in-depth analysis of the sociodemographic characteristics of its migrant communities. The "Migrant communities by era of settlement" report provides up-to-date local insights into 'eras' of migrant settlement from pre-1945 to 2021 on a range of relevant themes.
Themes analysed across each era of settlement:
- Spatial distribution
- Population charateristics
- Cultural diversity
- Education and employment
- Health and need for assistance
- Income
- Housing
In preparing the report, all data was sourced from the ABS' Australian Census of Population and Housing.
Key takeaways
- Overseas migrants from different eras who are living in the City of Darebin have significantly different sociodemographic characteristics and therefore, different needs.
- The spatial patterns of overseas migrants from different eras in the City of Darebin are disparate.
- The post-WWII era saw the largest percentage increase of overseas-born migrants in the City of Darebin.
- Although the analysis counts only migrants currently living in the City of Darebin and not those who have left or passed away, the trends show around 550 current migrant residents arriving each year between 1956 and 2015 before a spike of around 2,100 new migrant residents each year since 2016.
- While the City has had a large increase in Southern and Central Asian migrants since 2007, the largest proportion of overseas-born migrants living in the City of Darebin were born in Italy, Greece, and the UK.
Overseas-born migrants residing in the City of Darebin by year of arrival| Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics and .id (informed decisions)
Next steps
These insights will form the core evidence for the 'Cultural Diversity Action Plan', which will enhance engagement and incorporate and recognise migrant communities in the planning and delivery of Council programs, services, and projects, including the 'Migration Monument', country of origin signage, and place naming projects.
Work with us
If you are interested in similar work, feel free to reach out at demographics@id.com.au or on +61 3 9417 2205.