Area profile · Australian Capital Territory
Forrest has an estimated 1,948 residents, up 6.6% since the 2021 Census, with 38 projects tracked in the area around Forrest.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Forrest Statistical Area (Lv2), located 3.9 kilometres south from Canberra CBD, has an estimated population of 1,948 as of Aug 2026 (ERP), compared with 1,827 people at the 2021 Census. This represents an increase of 121 people (6.6%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 1,944 as of June 2025 and 19 Validated New Addresses since the Census date.
The area has a high proportion of mature and older Australians, with many couples without children, and is among the country's most affluent and well educated communities. Its population is growing at a moderate pace. Forrest's tree-lined streets, parks, green spaces and blend of heritage homes and modern apartments contribute to its residential character, alongside educational institutions and dining and shopping options.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Forrest Statistical Area (Lv2), located 3.9 kilometres south from Canberra CBD, has an estimated population of 1,948 as of Aug 2026 (ERP), compared with 1,827 people at the 2021 Census. This represents an increase of 121 people (6.6%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 1,944 as of June 2025 and 19 Validated New Addresses since the Census date.
The area has a high proportion of mature and older Australians, with many couples without children, and is among the country's most affluent and well educated communities. Its population is growing at a moderate pace. Forrest's tree-lined streets, parks, green spaces and blend of heritage homes and modern apartments contribute to its residential character, alongside educational institutions and dining and shopping options.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,208 in 2001 and 1,944 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 1,948 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 16%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 42%.
Forrest ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for income and the 93rd for employment drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
AreaSearch tracks 38 projects in and around Forrest, 10 of them under construction.
ACT Government project delivering a new multi-purpose community centre and upgrades to Griffith Oval, including a new pavilion, upgraded play spaces, and improved amenities. The facility serves residents of both Griffith and Narrabundah in Canberra's inner south.
A multi-agency office precinct at York Park in Barton designed to accommodate approximately 5,000 workers from national security and Commonwealth agencies, including the Office of National Intelligence and DFAT. The project includes high-security office spaces, retail, and hospitality amenities.
The Kingston Arts Precinct is a $146 million redevelopment of Section 49 in Kingston, Canberra, to create an arts destination. It will reuse the heritage Fitters Workshop, Kingston Powerhouse and former Transport Depot, to house organisations including Canberra Glassworks and Megalo Print Studio.
A new 2,000-seat lyric theatre is under construction on Vernon Circle, north of The Playhouse, as Stage 1 of the Canberra Theatre Centre transformation. Designed by Cox Architecture with Yerrabingin, Charcoalblue and Arcadia Landscape Architecture, the venue will host large-scale musicals, ballet, opera and international productions.
ACT Government light rail extension from Commonwealth Park to Woden, proposed to add nine stops, cross Lake Burley Griffin on a new bridge between the Commonwealth Avenue bridges, travel through the National Triangle, and continue along Adelaide Avenue and Yarra Glen to Woden.
Development of a 19,800 sqm, six-level office building in Barton for a Commonwealth Government entity. The facility is designed to achieve a 6.0-star NABERS Energy and 6.0-star Greenstar rating, and will be 100% occupied under a 15-year lease with a 5-year extension option.
Construction of Stage 2A extends Canberra's light rail network 1.7 km from Alinga Street to Commonwealth Park, with new stops at Edinburgh Avenue, City South and Commonwealth Park. The works include a new light rail bridge over Parkes Way and two new signalised intersections on London Circuit.
Ongoing precinct renewal of Narrabundah's established local village centre, guided by the ACT Inner South District Strategy adopted under the Planning Act 2023. The strategy directs a mix of housing types, improved public realm, active travel connections, and community facility retention around the Iluka Street and Boolimba Crescent local shops.
A transformative urban renewal project south-west of City Hill comprising six distinct buildings. The precinct includes 502 residential dwellings (76 affordable), a striking 5-star hybrid timber hotel, an A-grade commercial office building (One City Hill), and an activated ground floor retail hub with cafes and a supermarket.
A billion-dollar redevelopment at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) to replace aging living-in accommodation facilities. The project delivers 1,500 contemporary rooms for Trainee Officers, offices for supervisory staff, and a multi-level car park with electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
A luxury mixed-use residential development consisting of 53 high-end apartments and penthouses. Designed by Hugh Gordon Architects, the 6-level building features two, three, and four-bedroom residences ranging from 160 to over 600 square meters. Ground floor units include courtyards, while penthouses offer private lifts and large rooftop terraces.
A 10-storey luxury hotel featuring 225 guest rooms and suites, a 300-seat flagship Japanese restaurant (Raku), and a level-10 rooftop dining venue. The development includes the Eleme Day Spa, a wellness floor with a pool, sauna, and gym, plus five conferencing spaces.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 14 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2023 1, 2024 0, 2025 0, 2026 1, 2027 2, 2028 4, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 1. 8 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 4 substantial development applications lodged in and around Forrest over the past 5 years, 2 in the last 12 months; 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 4 tracked applications: 2 approved, 1 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 7 | ABS building approvals | 14th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Forrest SA2 include: Griffith-Narrabundah Community Centre & Oval Upgrade (Construction); Light Rail Stage 2B: Commonwealth Park to Woden (Planning); Kingston Arts Precinct (Planning); Kingston Foreshore Precinct (Completed); and Inner South District Strategy (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Forrest SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Forrest SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 22nd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Forrest recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Forrest SA2 area has seen 12 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Forrest SA2's current population of 1,948 has been supported by 7 approvals on average over recent years.
The Forrest SA2 has seen 3.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 9.2 approvals in Australian Capital Territory. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 429 people in the Forrest SA2, compared to one for every 147 in Australian Capital Territory.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Forrest SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 7, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Forrest SA2 has grown by approximately 140 people, while 36 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Forrest are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,948 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,225 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 1,827 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 121 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.59 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Forrest SA2 was estimated to be approximately 1,948 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 1,944 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The forrest sa2 has added approximately 121 people and shown a 6.62% increase from the 1,827 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Forrest SA2 is estimated at 1,225 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Forrest SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Forrest SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Forrest hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 47 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 26.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 8.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 28.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 16.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Forrest SA2 at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Forrest is 12 years older than the Australian Capital Territory 2021 Census average (35 years) and 9 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Forrest SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 16.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Forrest SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 9.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Forrest SA2 show significant variance compared to Australian Capital Territory. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (10.9% vs 5.1%) and 65-74 year-olds (12.9% vs 7.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (2.2% vs 5.4%) and 5-14 year-olds (6.2% vs 11.7%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 8.4% of the population in the Forrest SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.8% of the population in the Forrest SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 2% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $108,000 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $169,226 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $3,363 | 2021 Census, weekly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,816 | 2021 Census, weekly | 99th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 54.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $4,532 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 7.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forrest SA2 is approximately $115,582. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $108,000.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forrest SA2 is approximately $181,106. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $169,226.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forrest SA2 is approximately $115,582 compared to $81,672 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $108,000 and $76,315 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forrest SA2 is approximately $181,106 compared to $96,344 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $169,226 and $90,024 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Forrest SA2's households (~42.0% / 330 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Forrest SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 42.0% of households. In comparison, Australian Capital Territory's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 34.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Forrest SA2 is $3,363/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Forrest SA2 is $4,532/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Forrest SA2 is $1,816/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Forrest SA2 is among the top percentile nationally, with the median assessed at $108,000 while the average income stands at $169,226. This contrasts to Australian Capital Territory's figures of a median income of $76,315 and an average income of $90,024. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.02% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $115,582 (median) and $181,106 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Forrest SA2 is $13,030 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The forrest sa2's disposable income is $13,030 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees Forrest performing better than 93% of local markets assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 0.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,213 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,904 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,219 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Forrest SA2 has approximately 1,213 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 0.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Forrest SA2 stands at 0.5%, which is 3.7 percentage points below Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Forrest SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (32.8% of employment), professional & technical (15.4%), and health care & social assistance (13.2%). These three sectors alone account for 61.4% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Forrest SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Australian Capital Territory saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Forrest SA2 is 67.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Australian Capital Territory average of 71.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Australian Capital Territory.
The forrest sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 15.4% of the local workforce compared to 11.1% across Australian Capital Territory. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The forrest sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.3% decline, ranking 35th out of 37 regions nationally.
Forrest shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 64.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 21.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
64.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Forrest SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
21.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Forrest SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
The forrest sa2 ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Forrest SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (32.1%), Postgraduate (25.3%), Advanced Diploma (7.9%).
25.0% of the population in the Forrest SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.2% in primary school, 7.4% in secondary school, 8.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Forrest SA2 is 1138, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the Forrest SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 476 students.
The forrest sa2 includes 1 primary school.
Forrest features high concentrations of couples without children and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 37.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 786 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 838 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.5% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.3 per family | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Forrest SA2 had 786 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.6% to an estimated 838 households today.
The average household size in the Forrest SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.2%), group households (4.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 523 family households, couples with children account for 23.7% of all households, couples without children at home 37.0%, and single parent families 4.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the Forrest SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Forrest SA2 have an average of 1.3 children, slightly below the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 53.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.4% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.
Single-person households represent 29.2% of all households in the Forrest SA2, similar to the average for Australian Capital Territory of 25.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.3% of households, slightly below the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Forrest was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 20.0% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 80.0% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.7% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
Forrest was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 25.9% of its population born overseas and 20.0% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Forrest was found to be Christianity, which makes up 49.0% of people in Forrest. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.8% of the population, compared to 0.2% across Australian Capital Territory.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Forrest are English, comprising 23.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.2% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Polish is notably overrepresented at 1.4% of Forrest (vs 0.8% across Australian Capital Territory), French at 1.1% (vs 0.5%) and Scottish at 9.6% (vs 7.3%).
25.9% of the Forrest SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% across Australian Capital Territory.
20.0% of the population in the Forrest SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
0.2% of the Forrest SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Australian Capital Territory.
91.7% of the Forrest SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Forrest features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 46.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,520 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 89th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 16.9% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $570 | 2021 Census, weekly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 16.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 17.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Forrest SA2, 38.2% of homes are owned outright, 31.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 36.5% of dwellings in the Forrest SA2 are houses.
In the Forrest SA2, 46.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Forrest SA2 stands at 38.2%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Forrest SA2 is $2,520, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Forrest SA2 is $1,542, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Forrest SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 17.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 16.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Forrest SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Forrest SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 17.3% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% in Australian Capital Territory), while renters spend 16.9% of income on rent (vs 19.0% in Australian Capital Territory).
The dwelling mix in the Forrest SA2 consists of 36.5% detached houses, 16.9% semi-detached dwellings, 46.6% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Forrest consumes approximately 10.6% of median household income ($14,562 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Forrest show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 64% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% of applications versus 36% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Forrest's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 87.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.9% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
Around 87.9% of people in the Forrest SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.2% in Australian Capital Territory.
In the Forrest SA2, 3.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.
7.8% of people in the Forrest SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.6% of the Forrest SA2 population, while in Australian Capital Territory, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.3% of people in the Forrest SA2 have heart disease. Across Australian Capital Territory,2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Forrest SA2, 87.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Australian Capital Territory sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 62.2%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 85 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 85th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 12 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,596 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 58th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 162 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 33 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 19.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 12 public transport stops within the Forrest SA2.
The Forrest SA2 has 2,596 weekly trips across 33 routes, averaging 370 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 285 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 397 m away and the nearest school 414 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 12 stops nearby, 2,596 weekly trips, access rating 85 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 62 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 397 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 414 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 613 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 667 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest bank | 668 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 714 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 843 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 862 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 898 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 232 places in Forrest, about 0.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Forrest is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Forrest.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Forrest recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Forrest has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 22nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Population growth drivers in Forrest are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Forrest hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 2% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees Forrest performing better than 93% of local markets assessed across Australia.
Forrest shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Forrest features high concentrations of couples without children and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Forrest was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Forrest features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Forrest's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Forrest has an estimated 1,948 residents, up 6.6% since the 2021 Census, with 38 projects tracked in the area around Forrest.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Forrest.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (801061063). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Forrest from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Forrest with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
