Peter
Meaning: Rock — unshakable foundation and steadfast faith
Origin: Greek/Latin
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #3
Total births: 54,223
History: Peter peaked in the 1950s-60s and is woven deeply into Australian culture. Peter Garrett fronted Midnight Oil and then entered parliament — the rock star turned politician. Peter Carey won the Booker Prize twice. Peter Weir directed some of Australia's most iconic films. In Australia, Peter means cultural excellence.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2006) | #83 |
| Babies named Peter in 2006 | 126 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 54,223 |
| Peak year | 1956 (2,796 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #1 |
| Years in records | 1952–2006 (55 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 17 spots |
Frequently asked about Peter
What does the name Peter mean?
Peter means “Rock — unshakable foundation and steadfast faith” from Greek/Latin roots.
What is the origin of the name Peter?
Peter has Greek/Latin origin. The traditional meaning is “Rock — unshakable foundation and steadfast faith”.
How popular is Peter in Australia?
Peter ranked #83 in Australia in 2006 — given to 126 babies that year.
When was Peter most popular?
Peter peaked in 1956 with 2,796 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Peter a boy or girl name?
Peter is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Peters in registered births are male.
Is the name Peter rising or falling in popularity?
Peter has fallen 17 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Australia — from #66 in 2001 to #83 in 2006.
How long has Peter been recorded in Australia?
Peter appears in birth records in Australia across 55 years — from 1952 through 2006.