William
Meaning: Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet
Origin: Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection)
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #17
Total births: 32,212
History: William has been a constant in Australian naming — strong in the colonial era and surging again in the 2010s. William Barton is a celebrated Aboriginal didgeridoo player and composer bridging Indigenous and Western music. The name's revival represents modern Australia's respect for tradition with an inclusive twist.
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) | #11 |
| Babies named William in 2025 | 290 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 32,212 |
| Peak year | 2007 (763 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #1 |
| Years in records | 1952–2025 (74 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 8 spots |
Frequently asked about William
What does the name William mean?
William means “Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet” from Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection) roots.
What is the origin of the name William?
William has Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection) origin. The traditional meaning is “Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet”.
How popular is William in Australia?
William ranked #11 in Australia in 2025 — given to 290 babies that year.
When was William most popular?
William peaked in 2007 with 763 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is William a boy or girl name?
William is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Williams in registered births are male.
How long has William been recorded in Australia?
William appears in birth records in Australia across 74 years — from 1952 through 2025.