This paper explores issues associated with the production of temporary population statistics. The production of estimates is complex due to variability in the dynamics of mobility driving short-term shifts in population numbers, a lack of clarity with respect to user needs, and limited conceptual development. In this paper, I present a set of experimental estimates of temporary populations for Australian regions drawing on conventional and emerging data sets. The paper concludes with a discussion of the pitfalls and benefits of using emerging data sets for temporary population estimation.

Dr Elin Charles-Edwards is a population geographer and demographer. She is a Senior Lecturer in Human Geography and Deputy Director of the Queensland Centre for Population Research at the University of Queensland, Australia. She holds an adjunct appointment at the Asian Demographic Research Institute, Shanghai University, China. Her research explores migration, temporary mobility and small area population dynamics.