Australia’s Population Growth Rate Should Be Restricted Essay

Submitted By omgasher
Words: 887
Pages: 4
Open Document
Australia is in grave, grave trouble. In the last year alone, Australia’s population grew at its most explosive rate in 50 years. Over the next four decades, Australia’s growth rate is even expected to overtake the rate of the world’s second most populated nation—India. (Irvine, 2009) Not only is Australia heading for a collision course with the natural environment, but the quality of life of all Australian citizens is hanging treacherously in the balance. But even with a potential catastrophe looming over the horizon, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd—along with many high-profile Australian politicians—have vigorously defended their megalomaniacal beliefs in a “big Australia”. In order to avert a potential day of reckoning, Australia’s population growth rate should immediately be regulated and restricted.

The quality of life for all Australians will inevitably plummet as the population soars. When I first came to Australia in mid-2009 to study—one of the first encounters I had with the Melbourne Metlink trains was a sad, yet comical one. When the train arrived, I stared blankly at the sliding doors—waiting for them to slide open. Never did it occur to me that the train doors were not automatic—and that they had to be hauled open by hand. It never crossed my mind that a wealthy, industrialized country could have such an outdated transportation system. My culture shock didn’t end there. Upon boarding the densely packed train, I quickly realized that I was at the mercy of a train that had the speed of a drunken snail on antidepressants. Fortunately, I have since gotten used to the sub-par transportation system in Melbourne, the late busses, and the mysteriously disappearing trams. Unfortunately, this old, aging system will only crumble under the massive population growth projected over the next few decades. (Irvine, 2009) Federal Liberal MP and former immigration minister Kevin Andrews, said in a speech to the Australian Environment Foundation, “Our roads are congested, our public transport overcrowded…Journeys that once took 30 minutes often take an hour. The congestion has spread beyond peak hour to much more of the day.” (Austin, 2009) If these problems are happening already in Victoria, they are only guaranteed to worsen with population growth. Additionally, there will be challenges regarding housing and rental supply with the projected population increases. Consequently, housing prices are expected to soar—making housing unaffordable for the young. (Austin, 2009)

Australia’s famed natural environment and water supply are under threat from continued population growth. In fact, the latest statistics from the Global Carbon Project state that Australia holds the lead of the highest carbon emissions per capita among developed nations. (Clarke, 2009) The more Australia’s population grows, the more energy will be required—thus, adding to the already sky-high emissions figures. Already scarce water supplies will also be pressured, leading to water restrictions and price rises. (Austin, 2009) Additionally, animal extinction will be a serious issue. (Austin, 2009) Australia already has some of the worst biodiversity extinction rates in the entire world. (Austin, 2009) With the direct correlation between population growth and animal extinction—one can expect an environmental crisis in the near future.

Unfortunately, businesses want strong population growth, as they say it increases profits and helps to boost the economy. Kevin Rudd and his many elite business supporters praise the high projected growth rates. They say business profits are benefited by large markets. The more people you are able to sell to—the
Show More

Related Documents: Australia’s Population Growth Rate Should Be Restricted Essay

Pdhpe Notes Hsc Essay

Measuring Health Status Role of Epidemiology Epidemiology the study of disease in groups of populations through the collection of data and information, to identify patterns and causes * Epidemiology considers the patterns of disease in terms of: Prevalence (number of causes of disease in population at a 
specific time) Incidence (number of new cases of disease occurring in a 
population) Distribution (the extent) Apparent causes (determinants and indicators) 
 Epidemiology commonly…

Words 6030 - Pages 25

Essay on Online Booking

tools (OBTs) are used increasingly by companies wishing to minimize costs while providing convenient booking features for travelers. Many factors influence online adoption, from the macro-economic context to organizational culture, but high adoption rates are possible, particularly when a comprehensive implementation strategy is implemented. Companies also need to carefully consider the trade-offs involved in using a single OBT or best-in-market OBTs regionally or locally, as well as whether to source…

Words 4262 - Pages 18

topic 2 cafs Essay

Association, promoting education to all.  Access to services- There is a demand on nursing homes. May not be educated about services available. May need assistance with shopping, transport, home maintenance, personal care, housework etc. May be restricted by physical problems or not ESL  Financial Support- Mainly comes from the government through the age pension (which is income and asset tested) while some may have superannuation (or a combination of both). Centrelink also provides health concessions…

Words 7371 - Pages 30

Chocolate In Chin The Cadbury Experience

or suitability for any purpose of the Content. Any opinions and views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authors, and are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor & Francis. The accuracy of the Content should not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sources of information. Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses, actions, claims, proceedings, demands, costs, expenses, damages, and other liabilities whatsoever or howsoever…

Words 7097 - Pages 29