Torres Strait Islander Population Shifts

More Islanders Living on Mainland Australia

A significant shift in the population of Torres Strait Islander people has occurred, with more now living on mainland Australia than on the islands.

There are now approximately 28,000 Torres Strait Islander people living on the mainland, compared to about 4,500 living on the islands. This shift has been attributed to a number of factors, including the impacts of the Stolen Generations policy and the lack of economic opportunities on the islands.

The Torres Strait Islander people are one of Australia's two distinct Indigenous cultural groups, the other being the Aboriginal peoples. Torres Strait Islander peoples have a rich and diverse culture, with a strong connection to the land and sea.

The shift in population has had a significant impact on Torres Strait Islander communities, both on the islands and on the mainland.