The data also shows how Queensland’s growth in the COVID-19 era bucked national trends.

Queensland grew by about 0.8 percent in 2020–21, well above the national average of 0.1 percent. During the same period, New South Wales recorded no population growth, while Victoria went backwards by about 0.9 percent.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, whose Rankin electorate in Logan is nestled between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, talked up his home state’s appeal. “There’s no doubt that we live in the best part of the best country in the world,” he said. “Every year, more and more Australians are realising what they’re missing out on and moving to Queensland.

“During the pandemic we saw strong demand from people in Sydney and Melbourne looking to relocate, and that’s not likely to stop in years to come.

“Queensland has become the undisputed capital for Australians looking for a sea change.”

Chalmers said that while the pandemic had a significant and enduring impact on the Australian community and economy, there were signs that population growth was “bouncing back”.

“A healthy, growing population is vital when it comes to creating a stronger and more prosperous economy,”

he said. “COVID-19 highlighted just how important the wellbeing of our workforce is to Australia’s economic prosperity.”

Migration was expected to provide the lion’s share of Queensland’s population increase. Overseas migration is expected to account for 32,000 new Queenslanders this financial year alone, while 30,600 were expected to move from interstate.