In 2021 the community of Gladstone had a population of 37,703 which is an increase of 5,630 since 2011. With the largest increase taking place between 2016 and 2021, at 4,285 people. It is estimated that the population will increase by a further 3,090 to 12,991 people by 2041, with the retirement age (65-79) cohort forecast to experience the largest increase.

In 2021 the median age for Gladstone was 35, which is lower than the region and State median age of 38.

Since 2011 the median age of Gladstone has fluctuated from 35 in 2011 to 33 in 2016 and back to 35 in 2021.

The Gladstone community is diverse across age groups, with people living in the area until their senior years.

There are some strong trends and a notable decrease in the community aged between 0-4 years old and through to 50-54 years old between 2021, 2016 and 2011.

The most notable decrease is for those aged 35-44 years old, with a decrease of 266 people between 2011 and 2021.

There are notable increases across all age brackets from 55-79 years old, with an increase of 963 people.

In 2021 the age groups that differ most to the Gladstone Region are:

• Gladstone has a larger proportion of the population aged 25-29 making up 6.6 per cent of the population (2,481 people) compared to 5.9 per cent for the region. The proportion of people in this age bracket has decreased by 1.6 per cent between 2016 and 2021.
• Gladstone has a larger proportion of the population aged 20-24 making up 5.65 per cent of the population (2,129 people) compared to 5 per cent for the region. Although, the proportion of people in this age bracket has decreased by 1.6 per cent over the past five years.
• Gladstone has a smaller proportion of the population aged between 50 and 84 than the region, however at a local level the percentage of people in these age brackets are increasing with an increase of 2,427 people between 2011 and 2021.

There will continue to be demand for diverse services and activity opportunities to cater for all age groups in the community.

Consideration should be given to services, lifestyle offerings and opportunities for those in tertiary education and the young work force if they are to stay within the region. Currently, Gladstone’s population is decreasing at a higher proportional rate than the wider region. This could impact on the number of parents, home builders and ultimately the region’s future growth.

With a significant ageing population and with the trend of retirement living, consideration should be made for increased access to health services.

Service group breakdown compared to the Region, source ABS 2022, 2016, 2011