James
Meaning: Supplanter; one who follows
Origin: Latin Iacomus, from Greek Iakobos, from Hebrew Yaakov (Jacob)
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #6
Total births: 45,885
History: James has been a constant in Australian naming from the First Fleet to today. James Cook charted Australia's east coast in 1770, making the name foundational to Australian history. James Packer built a media empire. The name spans every era of Australian life — colonial, federation, modern.
Explore more at Australian Baby Names on BabyNa.me
Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #15 |
| Babies named James in 2025 | 252 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 45,885 |
| Peak year | 1992 (1,178 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #3 |
| Years in records | 1952–2025 (74 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 4 spots |
Frequently asked about James
What does the name James mean?
James means “Supplanter; one who follows” from Latin Iacomus, from Greek Iakobos, from Hebrew Yaakov (Jacob) roots.
What is the origin of the name James?
James has Latin Iacomus, from Greek Iakobos, from Hebrew Yaakov (Jacob) origin. The traditional meaning is “Supplanter; one who follows”.
How popular is James in Australia?
James ranked #15 in Australia in 2025 — given to 252 babies that year.
When was James most popular?
James peaked in 1992 with 1,178 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is James a boy or girl name?
James is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Jamess in registered births are male.
How long has James been recorded in Australia?
James appears in birth records in Australia across 74 years — from 1952 through 2025.