Christmas Island had a population of 1,692 as of 2021, with most living in settlements on its northern edge. The main settlement is Flying Fish Cove. Other settlements include Poon Saan, Drumsite, and Silver City. Historically, Asian Australians of Chinese, Malay, and Indian descent were the majority of the population.
Christmas Island has a resident population of approximately 2072 with an ethnic composition of approximately 60 per cent Chinese, 25 per cent Malay and 15 per cent European.
How much does it cost to live on Christmas Island?
Mr McDonald says the cost of living is now estimated at about 180 per cent above that on the mainland. An iceberg lettuce at the local store can cost as much as $12. A housing shortage, exacerbated by the influx of Immigration Department workers, means some locals are paying as much as $1,000 rent a week.
Christmas Island may not be high on the tourist radar, its expensive to get to, accommodation is also expensive but its unique in its own right. Randomly placed in the Indian ocean, not too far from Indonesia, its a great spot over for yachties.
The only accommodation located inside the national park, Swell Lodge is a world-class eco-resort. Nestled in remote coastal wilderness, your beautifully appointed eco-chalet boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, a massive deck with ocean views and satellite wi-fi.
Beyond the call of the wild, the island's retail landscape includes GST-free alcohol, unique giftware and homewares at Wild Papaya, souvenirs that capture the essence of the island from the CI Visitor Centre, Red Crab Surf Shop equipped with apparel watches and eyeware, and top-notch freediving, snorkelling and scuba ...
Planning to rent a car on Christmas Island? Be mindful that Australian road rules, including left-hand side driving, apply on the island. A valid driver's license is a prerequisite, and be ready for off-road driving conditions beyond the main town areas.
English is the official language on Christmas Island. However, more than half of our residents speak a language other than English at home. While on the island, you might hear people conversing in Mandarin, Malay, Cantonese, Min Nan, Tagalog and a variety of other languages.
Christmas Island has fantastic weather all year around, with little variation in temperatures throughout the year. Temperatures reach an average high of 28°C in April and an average low of around 22°C in August.
Electricity. Electricity (consumer voltage 240V 50hz) is generated by diesel plants in the power station located on the island, and is operated by the Indian Ocean Territory Power Authority.
Virgin Australia offers two flights each week to Christmas Island departing from Perth. As the island is part of Australian territory, a passport and/or visa are not required.
Christmas Island International Airport (IATA: XCH, ICAO: YPXM) is an airport located on Christmas Island, a territory of Australia in the Indian Ocean.
Christmas Island is home to six native terrestrial reptiles, with five being endemic: the blue-tailed skink, forest skink, giant gecko, Lister's gecko, and pink blind snake. The Christmas Island Flying-fox is the last remaining endemic mammal on Christmas Island.
Established in 1966, the Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency of Australia and several countries and territories, including Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Norfolk Island, Nauru, Tuvalu, and Kiribati.
Working at Christmas Island is a challenging but immensely rewarding experience for anyone who wants to make a difference in a unique and highly fragile wilderness environment. Our current job vacancies are advertised on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website.
March 1942 – 1945 900 Japanese troops invade and occupy Christmas Island, imprisoning remaining Europeans and hunting 1000 Malay and Chinese workers in the jungle. Islander sabotage and allied submarines lead to suspension of mining. In 1943, half the population is sent to prison camps in Indonesia when food runs low.
Due to the high cost of transporting food to Christmas Island, you might find that eating out is a bit more expensive than at home. Luckily, the island's duty-free status means the drinks are likely to be significantly cheaper!
Hiring a car is the best way to get around the island, letting you explore the many walks and sights at your leisure. We recommend pre-booking as vehicles are limited. Contact Christmas Island Tourism Association for more details on hiring a car.
Use common sense when swimming or wading at any beach – they can be subject to large waves and swell, strong rips and undertows. None of the beaches on the island are patrolled by lifesavers. Swimming at beaches is only recommended at Flying Fish Cove under calm sea conditions.
When bushwalking, wear sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing. The sea cliffs and inland cliffs on Christmas Island can be steep and very treacherous.
