The Shire had a preliminary estimated resident population of 26,638 in 2006 according to the ABS, however it is estimated that visitors increase this to over 60,000 on any one day during peak tourism periods and prior booking of accommodation is essential at these times. The Shire's average annual growth rate over the past 20 years has been one of the highest sustained growth rates in Australia at almost 5%. Approximately 67% of the total Shire population is located in the town of Busselton. Read more in our Demography and Planning report (below).

Dunsborough townscapeThe Dunsborough urban area has achieved healthy population growth in recent times and has a permanent population of approximately 4,000. The ratio of unoccupied private dwellings in Dunsborough continues to be significant, at approximately 45% of the total number of private dwellings when the census was taken in August 2006, which is very high in comparison to other areas.

The Shire's current population structure reflects a broadening of the area's economy and increasing employment opportunities with a corresponding reduction in the significance of the area's ‘retirement' function. This is highlighted by the reduction in the percentage of residents aged over 55 from 25.1% in 1996 to 23% in 2001 while the percentage of residents aged 5-54 increased from 67.5% to 69.9% during that time.

The Shire's permanent population is expected to continue to increase significantly to approximately 34,000 in 2011 and 46,000 in 2021.