Australia is facing a startling demographic shift: its birth rate is plummeting to unprecedented lows. But amidst this trend, families like Rosina Gordon's are defying the odds, choosing to raise large families in an era where many feel it's simply too costly.
Recent data reveals a shocking statistic: the national birth rate is projected to hit a record low of 1.42 this year, as more Australians opt for smaller families or none at all. And this is the part most people miss: the decision to have fewer children isn't just a personal choice—it's deeply intertwined with the soaring cost of living, housing shortages, and a general sense of global uncertainty.
But here's where it gets controversial: while the majority are scaling back, a small but determined group is bucking the trend, welcoming three, four, or more children into their lives. Take Rosina Gordon, a 53-year-old mother of six, who, along with her teacher husband, relocated to regional New South Wales to raise their family. Growing up as one of six herself, Rosina cherished the sense of community a large family fosters—a value she wanted to pass on to her own children. Her Catholic faith also played a pivotal role in her decision, helping her overcome fears of financial instability and uncertainty.
“Is it faith that helped me to overcome the fear, the unforeseeable financial burden and instability that looms with the prospect of children? Well, yes,” she shared. “Having a large family has also definitely made my faith stronger.”
Yet, Rosina’s choice sets her apart. According to the 2021 Census, only 19.6% of couple families and 15.3% of single-parent families had three or more children—numbers that have been steadily declining since 2015. Raising six children on a single income hasn’t been easy, but Rosina has made it work through resourcefulness: hand-me-down clothes, thrifted furniture, and budget-friendly family outings. For her, the joys of a large family far outweigh the challenges, though she candidly admits, “you really can’t have it all.”
But here’s the real question: Is society undervaluing motherhood and large families in its pursuit of individualism and consumerism? Rosina has spent the last two decades building a tight-knit community of like-minded mothers, a support system she deems essential for emotional and mental well-being. “It can’t be done without a solid, committed, loyal friendship circle,” she asserts.
Jangelah Frew, 33, is another example of this counter-trend. Initially unsure about having a large family, she found her purpose and fulfillment after the birth of her first child nine years ago. Now pregnant with her fifth, she embraces the chaos, love, and stress that come with a big family. Despite inflation and a tight budget, Jangelah and her partner have made sacrifices—skipping annual holidays, eating out, and tech upgrades—to prioritize their family’s needs. They homeschool their children, cook all meals from scratch on a $300 weekly grocery budget, and rely on government support to make ends meet.
“The support for having a large family is already there, and we’re proof,” Jangelah says. “We utilize government support, my partner and I are solid, and we make life work within our means while striving to provide more for our family.”
But here’s the controversial part: Jangelah challenges the stereotypes often associated with large families—that they must be religious, poor, or motivated by government benefits. “We’re proof that it can be done,” she insists.
As the cost-of-living crisis and housing shortages continue to squeeze Australian families, many feel forced to choose between financial stability and the family size they desire. Rosina and Jangelah argue that more support—such as additional childcare funding and tax deductions—is needed to help those who want larger families. But what do you think? Is society doing enough to support families, or are we prioritizing individualism at the expense of community and family values? Let us know in the comments below.
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