- British Isles (primarily England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales): The majority of immigrants during the gold rush came from the British Isles. They were motivated by the promise of wealth and the opportunity for a new life in Australia.
- Chinese: A significant number of Chinese immigrants came to Australia during the gold rush. Many of them were from Guangdong Province in China, and they played a vital role in the mining industry, particularly in the goldfields of Victoria.
- Europeans: Immigrants from various European countries, such as Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Prussia, also flocked to Australia in search of gold.
- Americans: A smaller number of Americans joined the gold rush in Australia, particularly during the early years. Some of them had previously participated in the gold rushes in California and Georgia.
- Other Nationalities: Immigrants from other countries, including South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, also made their way to Australia during the gold rush.
The gold rush in Australia brought people from diverse backgrounds and cultures together and contributed to the shaping of Australia's multicultural society.