Australia is a multicultural country, home to people from all over the world. One of the largest migrant communities is the Filipino-born population. Filipinos have been coming to Australia for decades, bringing their culture, skills, and a strong sense of community.
Recently, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) highlighted the Filipino community in one of their most popular posts of 2024. According to their Facebook update, Blacktown, NSW, has the highest number of Filipino-born residents, with 2,820 people. The ABS also confirmed that the Philippines is the fifth most common country of birth among Australia’s overseas-born residents, with over 322,000 Filipinos living in Australia. For further details, refer to the ABS source.
But where do most Filipinos live? What jobs do they do? How do they contribute to Australian society? Let’s take a closer look at the latest statistics on Filipinos in Australia.
1. Population size and growth
The Filipino-born population in Australia has been steadily growing over the years. According to the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), there are over 322,000 people in Australia who were born in the Philippines, making it the fifth most common country of birth among Australia’s overseas-born residents. The number continues to rise, reflecting strong migration trends and family reunifications.
In addition to permanent residents, the broader Filipino community, including temporary residents and visitors, adds significantly to Australia’s cultural and economic landscape. While exact numbers for temporary residents are not specified in the ABS release, earlier trends suggest a significant presence in the international student and skilled migrant categories.
2. Geographic distribution
Filipinos in Australia are spread across different states and territories. According to the ABS 2021 Census data, the total number of Filipino-born residents in each state and territory is as follows:
- New South Wales (NSW): 98,510 residents
- Victoria (VIC): 75,480 residents
- Queensland (QLD): 60,360 residents
- Western Australia (WA): 35,120 residents
- South Australia (SA): 18,740 residents
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): 4,880 residents
- Northern Territory (NT): 2,800 residents
- Tasmania (TAS): 1,700 residents
The ABS data also highlights the top suburbs for Filipino-born residents in each state and territory:
- New South Wales (NSW): Blacktown – 2,820 residents
- Victoria (VIC): Tarneit – 1,910 residents
- Queensland (QLD): Southport – 780 residents
- Western Australia (WA): Wellard – 1,300 residents
- South Australia (SA): Parafield Gardens – 460 residents
- Tasmania (TAS): Glenorchy – 110 residents
- Northern Territory (NT): Zuccoli – 460 residents
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Phillip – 260 residents
Filipinos tend to choose areas where there are work opportunities, family connections, and established Filipino communities that provide support and a sense of belonging.
3. Demographic characteristics
Filipinos in Australia come from different backgrounds and age groups. The majority are working-age adults, with a median age slightly lower than the overall Australian population. The community also has a notable gender imbalance, with approximately 67 males for every 100 females, reflecting migration patterns where more Filipino women have settled in Australia, particularly in the healthcare sector.
4. Citizenship and residency
Many Filipino migrants become Australian citizens over time. A significant portion of the Filipino-born population has been living in Australia for over a decade, while new arrivals continue to come each year. Filipinos generally have a high rate of naturalisation, meaning they integrate well into Australian society and actively participate in civic life.
5. Family and household composition
Family is at the heart of Filipino culture, and this is reflected in their household composition in Australia. Many Filipino-born residents live in family households, often with extended family members under one roof. Multigenerational homes are common, with grandparents helping raise children while parents work. Filipinos are also known for their strong community spirit, often gathering for celebrations, church activities, and social events.
6. Family connections back home
Filipinos in Australia maintain strong ties with family in the Philippines. These connections are reflected in various ways, including:
- Regular Visits: Many Filipinos in Australia travel frequently to the Philippines to visit relatives and friends, often during holidays or special occasions.
- Remittances: Sending money to family members in the Philippines remains a significant activity, supporting education, healthcare, and daily living expenses.
- Balikbayan Boxes: Filipinos often send balikbayan boxes filled with gifts, clothes, and household items to their families back home, symbolising their care and connection.
- Patronising Filipino Businesses: Filipino grocery shops have been around for a number of years, but a growing number of Filipino cafes and restaurants have emerged in just the past four years, allowing Filipinos to enjoy familiar products and cuisines while supporting local businesses.
- Inviting Relatives: Many Filipinos in Australia sponsor or invite relatives to visit, strengthening family bonds and sharing their lives in Australia.
7. Socio-economic indicators
Filipinos contribute significantly to Australia’s workforce. Estimates based on trends from previous ABS data indicate their representation in key industries:
- Healthcare and Aged Care: Around 20–25% of Filipino workers are employed in this sector, including as nurses, carers, and allied health professionals.
- Hospitality and Retail: Approximately 15% of Filipino-born residents work in roles such as customer service, food preparation, and tourism.
- Trades and Technical Jobs: Around 10–12% of Filipino migrants work in skilled trades like construction, engineering, and IT.
- Education and Administration: Roughly 8–10% are employed as teachers, office administrators, and academic professionals.
These figures illustrate the diverse contributions of Filipinos across Australia’s economy, reflecting their adaptability and work ethic. For detailed statistics, refer to the ABS website.
8. Cultural integration and community engagement
Filipinos in Australia maintain their rich cultural traditions while embracing Australian life. Many participate in community events, cultural festivals, and religious activities. Popular events include the annual Philippine Independence Day celebrations and Philippine festivals, which showcase Filipino food, music, and dances.
Filipino Australians are also active in churches, sports groups, and charity organisations. They are known for their ‘bayanihan’ spirit—helping one another in times of need.
9. Challenges and opportunities
While Filipinos thrive in Australia, they also face challenges such as:
- Employment Recognition – Some Filipino migrants struggle to have their qualifications recognised in Australia, requiring further studies or certification.
- Cost of Living – Rising housing costs in major cities affect many Filipino families, especially those supporting relatives overseas.
- Separation from Family – Many Filipinos experience homesickness, as they often leave loved ones behind in the Philippines.
Despite these challenges, Filipinos continue to make valuable contributions to Australian society. Support networks, cultural organisations, and government programs help ease their transition and settlement.
The Filipino-born community is a vibrant and important part of Australia’s multicultural society. From healthcare to business, from community leadership to the arts, Filipinos have left a lasting mark on the country. As migration continues, so too will the influence and contributions of Filipinos in shaping Australia’s future.
With their strong family values, hardworking nature, and a deep sense of community, Filipinos will continue to thrive and enrich Australia for generations to come.
