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How Much Do We Know About Wealth Distribution in Australia?

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  • J. W. Nevile
  • N. A. Warren

Abstract

This paper surveys what is known about wealth distribution in Australia and concludes that our knowledge is scanty. The most reliable evidence comes from studies using probate returns and with the abolition of estate duties, these studies are becoming out of date. However, it is clear that wealth is very unequally distributed. The top 5 per cent of adult individuals own between 40 and 50 per cent of the wealth. This inequality is not just due to life cycle effects, and there is no strong evidence that wealth distribution has become more equal in Australia in the period since the First World War.

Suggested Citation

  • J. W. Nevile & N. A. Warren, 1984. "How Much Do We Know About Wealth Distribution in Australia?," Australian Economic Review, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, vol. 17(4), pages 23-33, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ausecr:v:17:y:1984:i:4:p:23-33
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8462.1984.tb00472.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yates, Judith, 1981. "An Analysis of Asset Holdings in Australia by Income Class," Working Papers 53, University of Sydney, School of Economics.
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    Cited by:

    1. Gavin A. Wood, 1999. "Home-owner Residential Property Taxes and their Burden on Net Personal Wealth: An Empirical Study for Australia," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 36(2), pages 239-254, February.
    2. John Piggott, 1984. "The Distribution of Wealth in Australia — A Survey," The Economic Record, The Economic Society of Australia, vol. 60(3), pages 252-265, September.
    3. Bruce Headey & Mark Wooden & Gary Marks, 2004. "The Structure and Distribution of Household Wealth in Australia," Melbourne Institute Working Paper Series wp2004n12, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne.
    4. Daina McDonald, 2006. "150 Issues of The Australian Economic Review: The Changing Face of a Journal over Time," Melbourne Institute Working Paper Series wp2006n01, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne.
    5. John McCallum & John Beggs, 1991. "Determinants of Household Weatlh: Assets of Divorcing Couples in Australia," Australian Economic Review, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, vol. 24(4), pages 57-66, October.

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