Brisbane vs. Perth: Which Australian City Is Larger?

Brisbane is larger. As of June 2023 (ABS ERP):

• Brisbane (GCCSA): 2,706,000
• Perth (GCCSA): 2,309,000

Gap: ~400,000 people.

Definitions Matter

• Greater Capital City Statistical Area (GCCSA) — functional labor market (includes commuting zones). Standard for "city" comparison.
• Significant Urban Area (SUA): Built-up contiguity. Brisbane 2.5M, Perth 2.2M — same gap.
• City Council (LGA): Brisbane City Council 1.3M (huge LGA); City of Perth 30K (tiny CBD council). Misleading for population.

Growth Trajectory

• Brisbane: +1.8%/yr (interstate migration, birth rate, Olympics 2032 prep).
• Perth: +1.3%/yr (mining cycle, overseas migration).
• Brisbane projected to hit 3M ~2030; Perth ~2035.

Economic Weight

• Brisbane GDP: ~$230B
• Perth GDP: ~$210B (mining HQ effect inflates productivity)

Both are top-3 Australian cities (after Sydney, Melbourne). Brisbane edges Perth on population; Perth punches above on resources income.