Australia's low birth rate adds to immigration debate

Significance This figure has raised concern as it is well below the “replacement” rate of 2.1 needed to keep the population stable. The decline comes as the government is reducing immigration, which has historically acted as a buffer against the effects of an ageing population and ensured a continuous supply of skilled workers. Impacts Greater investment has the potential to ease looming labour shortages, but skill gaps and high costs remain barriers to productivity. Childbirth will remain a difficult proposition for many women until related discrimination in the workplace is addressed. Policy responses have so far been fragmented and are often designed for political advantage rather than optimal outcomes.