Lawson

SA2

Australian Capital Territory / Belconnen

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 801011018 How we calculate this
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Lawson

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Lawson

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Lawson has an estimated 2,967 residents, up from 2,739 at the 2021 Census — a change of 228 people, or 8.3%. Growth has averaged 2.7% a year over five years. Natural increase accounts for 58.4% of that increase. That puts 963 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to research conducted by AreaSearch, the population of Lawson is calculated at approximately 2,967 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 228 people (8.3%) from the 2,739 residents recorded during the 2021 Census. The updated figure is derived by combining the ABS June 2025 estimated resident population of 2,913 with 18 validated new addresses registered after the Census. This population size results in a density of 963 persons per square kilometer, which aligns closely with typical averages for locations evaluated by AreaSearch. Lawson's 8.3% growth rate since the 2021 Census outpaced the broader SA3 area (4.2%), positioning the suburb as a leader in regional growth.

The expansion was chiefly fueled by natural growth, which accounted for roughly 58.4% of the overall population rise in recent times. AreaSearch utilizes projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for each SA2 region, published in 2024 using 2022 as the baseline. For SA2 regions lacking this data, and for any projections extending past 2032, growth rates by age group are sourced from ACT Government SA2 projections, also using a 2022 baseline. Future demographic trends indicate a downward shift in the total population, which is expected to contract by 299 persons by 2041 under this approach. Conversely, certain age groups are forecast to expand, particularly the 45 to 54 cohort, which is expected to increase by 54 people.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Lawson SA2?
Total population for the Lawson SA2 was estimated to be approximately 2,967 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,913 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Lawson SA2 changed since 2021?
The lawson sa2 has added approximately 228 people and shown a 8.32% increase from the 2,739 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Lawson SA2?
The population density in the Lawson SA2 is estimated at 963 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Lawson SA2?
10-year population growth data is not available for the Lawson SA2.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Lawson SA2?
Population growth in the Lawson SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (58.4%), Overseas migration (41.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 58.4% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Lawson

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Detail

Lawson has averaged approximately 1 residential building approval annually, representing a total of 6 dwellings over the last 5 financial years. Thus far in FY-26, 0 approvals have been documented. Since an average of 61.3 new residents arrived per constructed dwelling over the past 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), demand vastly outstrips new supply, a trend that typically drives up prices and intensifies buyer competition. Newly built properties show an average construction value of $95,000, which falls below the regional average and indicates more budget-friendly options for buyers.

Furthermore, commercial approvals valued at $59,000 have been logged during the current financial year, representing low levels of commercial development. In comparison to the Australian Capital Territory, Lawson exhibits a very low level of development activity (92.0% below the regional average on a per-capita basis). This constrained supply of new homes generally reinforces demand and sustains values for existing properties. This rate of activity is similarly below the national average, reflecting the established character of the area and indicating possible planning restrictions. Given forecasts of stable or contracting population numbers, Lawson could see reduced demand for housing, creating advantageous conditions for home buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Lawson SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Lawson SA2 area has seen 0 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Lawson SA2's current population of 2,967 has been supported by 1 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Lawson SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Lawson SA2 has seen 0.05 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.97 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 0 people in the Lawson SA2, compared to one for every 141 in the broader region.
Is the Lawson SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
Population forecasts suggest stable or declining population, reducing pressure on housing supply in the the Lawson SA2 area.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Lawson SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Lawson SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 1, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Lawson SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 1 approvals per year and a population of 2,967, stable population forecasts suggest a mature market with selective development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Lawson

Development applications around Lawson

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Lawson

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AreaSearch tracks 58 current infrastructure and development projects close to Lawson, worth an estimated $21.2 billion. 14 are already under construction and 23 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and communities. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Changes to local infrastructure, planning schemes, and major developments have a significant impact on local property performance. AreaSearch has identified a total of 19 projects that are expected to influence the area. Principal developments include the Mona Tait Gardens & Bullecourt Retirement Village Expansion, the AIS Podium Project, the Bruce Sports, Health and Education Precinct, and the Bruce Innovation District, with the following list highlighting those of greatest relevance.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lawson SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lawson SA2 include: Mona Tait Gardens & Bullecourt Retirement Village Expansion (Construction); AIS Podium Project (Planning); Bruce Sports, Health and Education Precinct (Planning); Bruce Innovation District (Proposed); and Bruce Sporting Complex Upgrade (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Lawson SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Lawson SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Sports & Recreation, and Education & Training, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Lawson SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $12.1 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Lawson SA2 vicinity.
How does the Lawson SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Lawson SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 20thth percentile.
Bruce Sporting Complex Upgrade
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Progressive upgrade of sporting facilities in Bruce including playing fields, lighting, pavilions, changerooms and supporting infrastructure. The works form part of the ACT Government's ongoing sportsground improvement program to improve community and competition sporting facilities.

Sports & Recreation

Radford College Master Plan Implementation
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Ongoing implementation of the Radford College Master Plan at the Bruce campus. Major recent works include the completed Collegians Centre (multi-purpose hall) and the Boorer Family Cricket Centre. As of mid-2025 the College Board confirmed the final stage of works was progressing, comprising the completion of the school ovals, presentation upgrades to the Haydon Drive and College Street boundaries, a new Foundation Walk, and a feature pedestrian entrance and path linking College Street to the Collegians Centre with shelter, seating, lighting and an avenue of trees.The College anticipated the design becoming visible by the end of Term 3 2025 following earthworks and landscaping across multiple worksites.

Education & Training

Bruce Precinct
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A masterplanned mixed-use urban precinct and residential land release located centrally in Bruce. Aligning with the Bruce Sports, Health and Education Precinct masterplan, it aims to deliver 250-500 new dwellings alongside commercial, hospitality, innovation hubs, and retail opportunities.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Mona Tait Gardens & Bullecourt Retirement Village Expansion
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Expansion of the Bullecourt Retirement Village within the Mona Tait Gardens seniors living precinct. Stage 1 comprising 20 independent living units has been completed. The revised Stage 2 development is now under construction and will deliver 83 additional retirement homes (72 apartments and 11 townhouses), a community hub, landscaped open space and associated infrastructure following a redesign that reduced building heights along Warrego Circuit after community consultation.

Residential Development

New Northside Hospital (North Canberra Hospital Redevelopment)
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The New Northside Hospital is a landmark $1.1 billion health infrastructure project located on the existing North Canberra Hospital campus. As of May 2026, the project has transitioned into the early works phase, which includes the establishment of site compounds, utility upgrades, and the staged demolition of existing campus buildings following a Development Application lodged in April 2026. This state-of-the-art facility will feature an expanded emergency department with a dedicated ambulance entry, modern inpatient units, and integrated spaces for medical research and training.Main hospital construction is scheduled to follow in 2027 while existing hospital services remain fully operational.

Health & Medical

AIS Podium Project
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 249.7 million dollar redevelopment of the Australian Institute of Sport campus to modernize infrastructure for the Brisbane 2032 Games. The project includes a new High Performance Testing and Training Centre, a multi-sport indoor dome, and a 200-bed accessible athlete residence. As of May 2026, the project is in a critical planning and procurement phase with major works tenders closing this month and demolition of the original 1985 Athletes Village scheduled for June 2026.

Sports & Recreation

Ethos Belconnen
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Ethos is the second stage of Per Se Developments' Cirrus lakeside precinct at Belconnen. The project comprises 88 premium apartments with ground floor commercial tenancies overlooking Lake Ginninderra. Construction is well advanced with display apartments open and commercial space being marketed ahead of expected completion in 2026.

Residential Development

University of Canberra Sports Precinct
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major expansion of University of Canberra sports facilities, including the development of Sports Hub 2, new aquatic centre, indoor sports courts, outdoor playing fields, gymnasium upgrades, and athlete training facilities. It focuses on community access programs and elite athlete development.

Sports & Recreation

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Lawson

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2,160 residents of Lawson are employed, from a labour force of 2,192. Unemployment sits at 1.5%, with participation at 85.8%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 1,913, about 64% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Lawson is characterized by a highly qualified workforce with significant representation in professional services, an unemployment rate of only 1.5%, and estimated employment growth of 0.7% over the past year. In March 2026, 2,160 local residents were employed, and the unemployment rate was 2.6% lower than the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.1%. Workforce participation is exceptionally high at 85.8% compared to the Australian Capital Territory average of 70.8%. Census data indicates that a low 8.9% of employed residents worked from home, though this figure may have been influenced by pandemic-related lockdowns.

The primary employment sectors for residents are public administration & safety, health care & social assistance, and professional & technical. The suburb displays a strong concentration in the accommodation & food sector, with its employment share reaching 1.5 times the regional proportion. On the other hand, public administration & safety is less represented at 20.9% compared to the regional average of 30.4%. The local area appears to provide few job opportunities within its boundaries, as shown by the comparison of the Census working population against the resident population. AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS statistics shows that during the 12 months leading to March 2026, employment grew by 0.7% while the labour force expanded by 1.0%, causing the unemployment rate to rise by 0.3 percentage points. In comparison, the Australian Capital Territory saw employment growth of 0.3%, a labour force expansion of 1.1%, and an unemployment rate rise of 0.7 percentage points. National employment projections from Jobs and Skills Australia dated May-25 offer additional context on future demand trends in Lawson. These five-year and ten-year projections have been applied to the local workforce structure to model potential growth. Although overall national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, the rates vary significantly by sector. Applying these industry projections to Lawson's specific employment distribution suggests local jobs could grow by 6.8% over five years and 13.8% over ten years (note that this is a simple weighted projection for illustration and excludes local population changes).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Lawson SA2?
As of March 2026, the Lawson SA2 has approximately 2,160 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.5%. 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.
How does the Lawson SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Lawson SA2 stands at 1.5%, which is 2.6 percentage points below Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Lawson SA2?
The employment landscape in the Lawson SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (20.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.5%), and professional & technical (12.2%). Other significant employers include education & training and accommodation & food.
How has employment changed recently in the Lawson SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Lawson SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Australian Capital Territory saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Lawson SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Lawson SA2 is 85.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Australian Capital Territory average of 70.8%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Lawson SA2's employment market?
The lawson sa2 shows notable specialization in accommodation & food, which employs 9.7% of the local workforce compared to 6.5% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Lawson SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Lawson SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.8% over the next five years and 13.8% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Lawson SA2 compare nationally?
The lawson 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 18.9% decline, ranking 37.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Lawson SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Lawson SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 39.1% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (13.5%), professional & technical (12.2%), and education & training (10.5%). With projected employment growth of 6.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Lawson

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Median household income in Lawson is $2,492 a week (about $130,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,190 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $71,494 a year against an average of $82,891. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

The Lawson SA2 region ranks among the wealthiest areas in Australia based on 2023 financial year ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch. Taxpayers in the Lawson SA2 recorded a median income of $71,494 and an average income of $82,891, compared to $72,206 and $85,981 respectively for the Australian Capital Territory. Adjusting for Wage Price Index growth of 10.44% since the 2023 financial year, current estimates would be approximately $78,958 for the median and $91,545 for the average as of March 2026. Census statistics show household, family, and personal incomes in Lawson all sit in the 90th percentile nationwide.

The income distribution shows that the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly bracket includes 40.7% of the community (1,207 people), compared to 34.3% across the broader region. The suburb shows notable wealth, with 40.3% of residents earning more than $3,000 weekly, which supports high-end retail and services. High housing costs account for 18.6% of income, yet strong earnings keep disposable income in the 87th percentile, and the SEIFA index ranks the area in the 10th decile for income.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Lawson SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lawson SA2 is approximately $78,958. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $71,494.
What is the average taxable income in the Lawson SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lawson SA2 is approximately $91,545. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $82,891.
How does the median taxable income in the Lawson SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lawson SA2 is approximately $78,958 compared to $79,744 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $71,494 and $72,206 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Lawson SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lawson SA2 is approximately $91,545 compared to $94,957 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $82,891 and $85,981 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Lawson SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~40.7% / 1,207 persons) of the Lawson SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Lawson SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Lawson SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 40.7% of the population. In comparison, Australian Capital Territory's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 34.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Lawson SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Lawson SA2 is $2,492/wk.
What is the median family income in the Lawson SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Lawson SA2 is $2,753/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Lawson SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Lawson SA2 is $1,190/wk.
How does the Lawson SA2's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the Lawson SA2 is among the highest in Australia, with the median assessed at $71,494 while the average income stands at $82,891. This contrasts to Australian Capital Territory's figures of a median income of $72,206 and an average income of $85,981. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.44% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $78,958 (median) and $91,545 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Lawson SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Lawson SA2 is $8,790 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Lawson SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The lawson sa2's disposable income is $8,790 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Lawson

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Lawson had 990 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 20% detached houses and 17% apartments. 46% are owned with a mortgage, 46% rented and 8% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $548 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,000 a month, a total housing cost higher than 97% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 22.0% of household income here and mortgage repayments 18.5%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the latest Census, residential dwellings in Lawson consisted of 19.7% separate houses and 80.3% semi-detached properties, apartments, or other structures, compared to 63.3% separate houses and 36.7% alternative dwellings in the Australian Capital Territory. The rate of home ownership in Lawson was low compared to the Australian Capital Territory, standing at 8.1%, with the remaining properties occupied by those with a mortgage (45.8%) or renters (46.0%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the suburb was $2,000, below the Australian Capital Territory average of $2,080. The median weekly rent was recorded at $548, above the Australian Capital Territory average of $450.

By comparison, Lawson's mortgage payments are higher than the Australian median of $1,863, and weekly rents are much higher than the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Lawson SA2?
In the Lawson SA2, 8.1% of homes are owned outright, 45.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 46.0% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Lawson SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 19.7% of dwellings in the Lawson SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Lawson SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Lawson SA2, 17.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 63.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Lawson SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Lawson SA2 stands at 8.1%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lawson SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lawson SA2 is $2,000, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.
What is the median weekly rent in the Lawson SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Lawson SA2 is $548, compared to $450 in Australian Capital Territory.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Lawson SA2?
In the Lawson SA2, 0.7% of rentals are $0-149/week, 7.6% are $150-349/week, 73.8% are $350-649/week, 15.4% are $650-949/week, and 2.5% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Lawson SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Lawson SA2 is $2,008, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Lawson SA2?
In the Lawson SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 18.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.0% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Lawson SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Lawson SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Lawson SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Lawson SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 18.5% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% regionally), while renters spend 22.0% of income on rent (vs 19.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Lawson SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Lawson SA2 consists of 19.7% detached houses, 63.1% semi-detached dwellings, 17.2% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Lawson SA2?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $2,008. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,000/month, and renters paying $2,373/month.
How affordable is housing in the Lawson SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Lawson consumes approximately 18.6% of median household income ($10,790 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Lawson SA2?
No recent development applications are recorded for this area.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Lawson

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Lawson counted 990 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 1,072 today, averaging 2.6 people each. 22% are couples with children, fewer than in 82% of areas nationally, against 32% couples without children. 20% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families represent the majority of households at 62.4%, consisting of 21.5% couples with children, 31.5% couples without children, and 5.9% single parents. Non-family households account for the remaining 37.6%, with single-person households at 19.6% and group households making up 17.5%. The median household size of 2.6 residents exceeds the Australian Capital Territory average of 2.5.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Lawson SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Lawson SA2 had 990 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.3% to an estimated 1,072 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Lawson SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 62.4% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (19.6%), group households (17.5%), and other household types (1.1%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 617 family households, 21.5% are couples with children, 31.5% are couples without children at home, and 5.9% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Lawson SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the Lawson SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Group households are notably over-represented at 17.5% (versus 4.7% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.4% compared to the regional 69.6%. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Lawson SA2 have an average of 0.6 children, slightly below the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Lawson SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 36.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 56.5% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 19.6% of all households in the Lawson SA2, notably lower than the regional average of 25.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 17.5% of households, well below the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Lawson

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62.7% of adults in Lawson hold a university qualification, including 35.5% with a bachelor degree and 23.1% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 9.1% hold a vocational qualification. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Education levels in Lawson are significantly higher than broader benchmarks, with 62.7% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree, compared to 30.4% nationally and 43.8% across the SA3 region. This academic profile positions the suburb well for knowledge-driven employment. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 35.5%, followed by postgraduate degrees (23.1%) and graduate diplomas (4.1%). Vocational training accounts for 16.6% of qualifications among residents aged 15 and over, split between advanced diplomas (7.5%) and certificates (9.1%). Enrollment rates in education are high, with 38.4% of the population active in formal studies.

This group includes 20.1% attending university or tertiary institutions, 5.6% in primary school, and 3.6% in high school.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Lawson SA2 have university qualifications?
62.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lawson SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Lawson SA2 have no formal qualifications?
20.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Lawson SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% regionally.
How does the Lawson SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The lawson sa2 ranks in the 60th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Lawson SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Lawson SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (35.5%), Postgraduate (23.1%), Certificate (9.1%).
What proportion of the Lawson SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
38.4% of the population in the Lawson SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 5.6% in primary school, 3.6% in secondary school, 20.1% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Lawson SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Lawson SA2 is 0, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.

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AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Lawson

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Lawson

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Public transport in Lawson reaches 9 stops on 40 routes, timetabled for about 2,600 services a week. The typical home sits about 170 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.4 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of the local transit network shows 9 active public transport stops operating in Lawson, consisting of bus services. These stops are served by 40 distinct routes, which provide 2,601 weekly passenger journeys. Transport access is rated as excellent, with residents living an average of 168 meters from the nearest stop. Due to the suburb's residential nature, the majority of working residents commute to other areas, with private vehicles remaining the primary transport mode at 88%, and buses representing 8%. Average vehicle ownership stands at 1.4 per household. A low 8.9% of residents worked from home, based on 2021 Census data which may reflect pandemic-era conditions.

Service frequency averages 371 daily trips across all routes, which translates to roughly 289 weekly passenger journeys for each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Lawson?
There are 9 public transport stops within the Lawson SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Lawson?
the Lawson SA2 has 2,601 weekly trips across 40 routes, averaging 371 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Lawson?
On average, residential properties are 168 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Lawson

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84.0% of residents in Lawson report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 91% of areas nationally. 1.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 60.8% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 4.8 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health metrics show excellent outcomes throughout Lawson, based on AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality data and the prevalence of chronic illnesses, which indicates very low rates of common health conditions across every age bracket. Furthermore, the rate of private health insurance is exceptionally high, covering approximately 61% of the total population (1,803 people), compared to the national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent health issues in the suburb are mental health conditions and asthma, affecting 6.7 and 6.5% of residents respectively. However, 84.0% of the population reported no chronic medical conditions, compared to 70.2% across the Australian Capital Territory.

Residents aged 65 and over make up 3.4% of the population (102 people), which is lower than the Australian Capital Territory average of 14.3%. Senior citizens in the area enjoy strong health outcomes, with national rankings aligning closely with the general population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Lawson SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 60.8% of people in the Lawson SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.4% in the broader region of Australian Capital Territory.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Lawson SA2?
In the Lawson SA2, 1.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Lawson SA2?
6.5% of people in the Lawson SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Lawson SA2?
Diabetes affects 1.5% of the the Lawson SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Lawson SA2?
0.6% of people in the Lawson SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Australian Capital Territory, 2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Lawson SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Lawson SA2, 60.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Australian Capital Territory sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 62.4%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Lawson

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53.0% of Lawson residents were born overseas and 54.0% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 92% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are Chinese (17.6%) and English (15.2%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Lawson ranks among the most culturally diverse suburbs nationally, with 54.0% of the population speaking a language other than English at home and 53.0% born outside Australia. Christianity is the primary religion, followed by 25.4% of residents. The suburb has a notable concentration of Hinduism, which is practiced by 11.3% of the population, a figure significantly higher than the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.8%. Regarding ancestry (representing parents' country of birth), the three largest groups in Lawson are Other at 18.6% of the population (exceeding the regional average of 12.2%), Chinese at 17.6% (exceeding the regional average of 4.2%), and English at 15.2% (below the regional average of 23.3%).

Significant variations are also seen in other backgrounds, with Indian ancestry overrepresented at 7.7% of Lawson (compared to 3.3% regionally), Korean ancestry at 1.6% (compared to 0.6%), and Vietnamese ancestry at 2.8% (compared to 1.0%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Lawson SA2?
Lawson is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 54.0% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 53.0% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the Lawson SA2?
The main religion in Lawson was found to be Christianity, which makes up 25.4% of people in Lawson. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 11.3% of the population, substantially higher than the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.8%.
What are the top countries of origin in the Lawson SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lawson are Other, comprising 18.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 12.2%, Chinese, comprising 17.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 4.2%, and English, comprising 15.2% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 23.3%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Indian is notably overrepresented at 7.7% of Lawson (vs 3.3% regionally), Korean at 1.6% (vs 0.6%) and Vietnamese at 2.8% (vs 1.0%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
53.0% of the the Lawson SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% regionally.
What percentage of the the Lawson SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
54.0% of the population in the Lawson SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the Lawson SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.9% of the the Lawson SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Lawson SA2?
65.5% of the the Lawson SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Lawson

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The median resident of Lawson is 29, younger than 99% of areas nationally. That is 1 year older than at the 2021 Census. 52.0% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

Lawson's median age of 29 years is lower than the Australian Capital Territory average of 35 and the national median of 38 years. Compared to the Australian Capital Territory, Lawson features a high proportion of residents aged 25 - 34 (37.6%) but fewer people aged 55 - 64 (3.5%). The concentration of residents aged 25 - 34 is higher than the national average of 14.6%. Since the 2021 Census, the 35 to 44 age bracket has risen from 16.0% to 19.7% of the population, while the 45 to 54 bracket grew from 6.4% to 9.0%.

In contrast, the 15 to 24 age bracket fell from 21.0% to 14.4%, and the 0 to 4 group declined from 5.8% to 4.0%. Projections for 2041 point to significant demographic shifts in Lawson. The 85+ cohort is expected to increase by 237% (41 people), rising from 17 to 59. General demographic aging is evident as residents aged 65 and older represent 56% of expected population growth, while declines are projected for the 65 to 74 and 0 to 4 age groups.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Lawson SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Lawson SA2 is 29 years.
How does the Lawson SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 29 years, Lawson is 6 years younger than the Australian Capital Territory average (35 years) and 9 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Lawson SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Lawson SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 37.6% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Lawson SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Lawson SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 3.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Lawson SA2 show significant variance compared to the Australian Capital Territory region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (37.6% vs 17.7%). The most under-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (1.6% vs 7.4%) and 75-84 year-olds (1.2% vs 5.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Lawson SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Lawson SA2 is 12.3%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Lawson SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Lawson SA2 is 3.4%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Lawson

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) May 2026 3 months ago all 13 measures
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, Local governments Daily May 2026 3 months ago all 2 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated May 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 18 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (2,739 at the 2021 Census → 2,967 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (801011018). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Lawson SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Lawson page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Lawson data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (May 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Jul 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas