The figures come from an independent resource after Census results revealed Australia’s population grew 8.8 per cent to 24.4 million.

Committee 4 Wagga chairwoman Judy Galloway thinks the growth “gives the city a bit more of an economical punch,” and says housing should be a top council priority.

“(The growth) will be something council will have to consider very seriously because it will have a significant impact on housing,” she said.

“It has a lot of implication for the city’s infrastructure and for the roads.

“The most important thing about knowing the population is going to grow is to take a proactive approach as opposed to reactive.”

Wagga City Council acting general manager Robert Knight said “a growing population is a positive opportunity” for the city’s economic profile.

“It is important that as the population increases, employment and services grow to ensure that there are jobs and facilities available to accommodate this growth,” he said.

“Council is preparing for this growth through integrated strategic planning, considering transport, infrastructure and economic projections.”

Director of Eagan Valuers Chris Eagan said the growth “is a major selling point” and that biggest thing is “having a future planned”.

“People need to have have a choice of where to live,” he said.

“Wagga has seen a lot of people leave Sydney and Melbourne to come here because of affordability, lifestyle and family.”

Wagga mayor Greg Conkey said the information is further proof that the city is indeed the place to be.

“Those of us that live here already know what a wonderful place Wagga is whether you are looking to establish a career, start an innovative business, raise a family or retire,” he said.

The data will be instrumental in helping council ensure Wagga’s future benefit.