E6K-table+graph-CYNDI

Table graph Cyndi This table compares marriage statistics in Australia from 1981 to 2002. Overall, while fewer couples chose to get married, divorce rates definitely increased.

In general, one of the first things to note is that the number of registered marriages descended gradually. For example, there were 113,905 registered marriages in 1981, compared to 2002, when it had declined to 105,400. Secondly, the average age of brides and grooms increased significantly. Another point which stands out is the high rates of divorce in couples. More specifically, in 1981 the number of divorces was almost 14,000 less than 2002 figures. A final point to consider is that in 2002 many more people chose to cohabit before marriage.

There are several possible reasons for this trend. Firstly, the lower numbers in marriage and high divorce rates could have resulted from the changes in family values. Next, the average age of couples increasing may have been due to the fact that a huge number of young people chose to complete their higher education first. Finally, the growth in percentage in cohabitation between young couples by 2002 might have been caused by freedom and comfortable relationships between lovers. It could be another effective way for them to estimate whether they are suitable or not before they get married.