Every five years, the department publishes updated population forecasts for each of the Commonwealth's four regions. These forecasts underpin our housing strategy, infrastructure investment and planning schemes, and are used by system governments and colony authorities to plan their own services.
The current forecast covers the period from 2127 to 2147 and draws on migration records, birth registrations and settlement approvals across the Commonwealth. It's reviewed annually and updated in full every five years, or sooner if a major shift in migration patterns is detected.
Forecast by region
The Frontier Territories are forecast to grow fastest over the next twenty years, as new hyperlane corridors open up land for settlement. Core Systems will keep growing steadily, but from a much larger base. The Outer Rim's population is expected to more than double, though it remains the smallest of the four regions.
| Region | 2127 | 2137 | 2147 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Systems | 1,410 | 1,560 | 1,690 | +20% |
| Inner Colonies | 620 | 780 | 910 | +47% |
| Frontier Territories | 180 | 340 | 520 | +189% |
| Outer Rim Region | 90 | 150 | 210 | +133% |
What this means for planning
Fast growth in the Frontier Territories is the main driver behind the Connected Colonies Program, which funds transport, utilities and community facilities in newly established settlements. In the Outer Rim, growth is slower in absolute terms but significant relative to the region's size, which is why housing supply is the focus of the Outer Rim housing strategy.
In Core Systems and the Inner Colonies, where most residents already live, the forecast is used mainly to plan the timing and location of infrastructure upgrades rather than new settlement growth. Land use frameworks and strategic planning schemes are reviewed against the forecast each year to make sure zoning keeps pace with demand.
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Housing strategy
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Communities