Area profile · Australian Capital Territory
Melba has an estimated 3,429 residents, up 1.4% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in the area around Melba.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
Conveniently positioned 10.6 kilometres northwest from Canberra CBD within the Australian Capital Territory, the Melba Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an established and tranquil residential community defined by its scenic green spaces, reserves, parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities. As of August 2026, the area has an estimated resident population (ERP) of approximately 3,429 according to AreaSearch, indicating moderate expansion and minimal change from the 3,383 people recorded at the 2021 Census when accounting for validated new addresses. The community features a standard age profile with a median age of 38, supported by well-regarded schools and an inviting family-friendly setting.
Melba is characterised by an affluent, highly educated populace with above-average median household income and prominent employment bases in public administration and education. The residential property landscape reflects severely limited dwelling supply alongside a strong semi-detached presence.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Conveniently positioned 10.6 kilometres northwest from Canberra CBD within the Australian Capital Territory, the Melba Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an established and tranquil residential community defined by its scenic green spaces, reserves, parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities. As of August 2026, the area has an estimated resident population (ERP) of approximately 3,429 according to AreaSearch, indicating moderate expansion and minimal change from the 3,383 people recorded at the 2021 Census when accounting for validated new addresses. The community features a standard age profile with a median age of 38, supported by well-regarded schools and an inviting family-friendly setting.
Melba is characterised by an affluent, highly educated populace with above-average median household income and prominent employment bases in public administration and education. The residential property landscape reflects severely limited dwelling supply alongside a strong semi-detached presence.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,621 in 2001 and 3,424 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,429 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 14.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31%.
Melba ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 92nd for income.
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 22 projects in and around Melba, 4 of them under construction.
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.
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.
A $520 million mixed-use town centre precinct comprising 550 for-sale apartments and 325 build-to-rent units across two towers (20 and 24 storeys) over a central podium with ground-floor commercial activation and basement parking.
Planned ACT Government community health centre for the growing West Belconnen and Ginninderry region. The facility is intended to provide integrated primary care, specialist outpatient services, allied health, mental health and community health services.
Comprehensive upgrade of existing community facilities including expanded library services, community meeting spaces, youth programs area, seniors centre, and childcare facilities. Improved accessibility and technology integration throughout.
The ACT Government is progressing planning for the expansion and modernisation of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium. The project encompasses additional indoor multi-sport courts, upgraded spectator seating, enhanced accessibility features, and improved administrative and changeroom amenities to meet rising regional community demand.
Mixed-use precinct at Belconnen Town Centre comprising 435 apartments across buildings of 12 to 18 storeys, a 144-room hotel, ground-floor retail, cafes, restaurants, and commercial office suites. The project sits within the Lathlain Eat Street precinct opposite Westfield Belconnen and adjoins an ACT Government urban park.
RF Corval has proposed a major mixed-use redevelopment at 40 Cameron Avenue comprising two towers of 24 and 27 storeys. The proposal includes 407 residential apartments, ground-floor commercial and office tenancies, and structured basement and podium parking.
Boutique 42-lot residential release within the new Macnamara suburb, directly adjacent to Dunlop.
Belconnen Lakeshore is an ACT Government land release and urban renewal project on the Lake Ginninderra foreshore at Emu Inlet. Guided by the Belconnen Town Centre Place Design Brief, the project will transform four waterfront sites including the Circus Sites Precinct and the former Water Police site into a mixed use precinct with new public waterfront…
Major mixed-use redevelopment of the former Belconnen Bowling Club site and surrounding land in Belconnen Town Centre. The precinct is planned to deliver apartments, retail, and public open spaces as part of the broader Belconnen Town Centre urban renewal program guided by the Belconnen District Strategy (adopted September 2024).
Macnamara is the second residential suburb in the Ginninderry Joint Venture, a 6 Star Green Star community on the western edge of Belconnen. Delivered by Suburban Land Agency and Riverview Developments, the suburb will deliver approximately 1,800 homes on land bordering the Ginninderry Conservation Corridor, with views to the Brindabella Mountains.
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: 2026 3, 2027 2, 2028 4, 2029 0, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 3.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 3 | ABS building approvals | 8th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the Melba SA2 area has seen 3 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Melba SA2's current population of 3,429 has been supported by 3 approvals on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Melba SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 3, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Melba SA2 has grown by approximately 116 people, while 17 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 6.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Melba SA2 include: West Belconnen Health Centre (Planning); Ginninderry Estate - Strathnairn & Macnamara (Stages 1-7+) (Construction); Belconnen Lakeshore - Connected Waterfront Precinct (Planning); Canberra Light Rail Stage 3: Belconnen to City (Planning); and Wallaroo Solar Farm (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Melba SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Communities, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Melba SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 19th percentile.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Melba reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,429 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,486 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 60th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,383 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 46 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.31 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Melba SA2 was estimated to be approximately 3,429 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,424 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The melba sa2 has added approximately 46 people and shown a 1.36% increase from the 3,383 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Melba SA2 is estimated at 1,484 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Melba SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.7% per annum.
Population growth in the Melba SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (68.3%), Natural increase (31.7%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 68.3% of overall population gains.
Melba's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 40th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.0% | 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 | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Melba SA2 at 38 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Melba is 3 years older than the Australian Capital Territory 2021 Census average (35 years) and equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Melba SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 14.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Melba SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Melba SA2 show significant variance compared to Australian Capital Territory. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (7.0% vs 5.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 20.1% of the population in the Melba SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.1% of the population in the Melba SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 8% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $73,271 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 90th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $79,804 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,326 | 2021 Census, weekly | 84th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,118 | 2021 Census, weekly | 86th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 38.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,767 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 14.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Melba SA2 is approximately $78,415. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $73,271.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Melba SA2 is approximately $85,406. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $79,804.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Melba SA2 is approximately $78,415 compared to $81,672 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $73,271 and $76,315 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Melba SA2 is approximately $85,406 compared to $96,344 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $79,804 and $90,024 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Melba SA2's households (~31.0% / 371 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Melba SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.0% 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 Melba SA2 is $2,326/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Melba SA2 is $2,767/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Melba SA2 is $1,118/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Melba SA2 is very high nationally, with the median assessed at $73,271 while the average income stands at $79,804. 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 $78,415 (median) and $85,406 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Melba SA2 is $8,803 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The melba sa2's disposable income is $8,803 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market performance in Melba lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,670 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,775 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,795 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Melba SA2 has approximately 1,670 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.0%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Melba SA2 stands at 7.0%, which is 2.8 percentage points above Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Melba SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (25.9% of employment), education & training (12.6%), and professional & technical (12.1%). These three sectors alone account for 50.6% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Melba SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Australian Capital Territory saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Melba SA2 is 65.5%, 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%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The melba sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 12.6% of the local workforce compared to 9.6% across Australian Capital Territory. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The melba sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.3% decline, ranking 35th out of 37 regions nationally.
Melba 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 | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 40.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.1% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 30.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
40.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Melba SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
30.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Melba SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
The melba sa2 ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Melba SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (23.9%), Certificate (18.1%), Postgraduate (11.9%).
31.7% of the population in the Melba SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.0% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 5.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Melba SA2 is 1040, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 3 schools within the Melba SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,342 students.
The melba sa2 includes 1 primary school, 2 secondary schools.
Melba features high concentrations of couples with children, with a larger average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.7 people | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 21.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 36.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,198 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,214 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 76.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Melba SA2 had 1,198 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.3% to an estimated 1,214 households today.
The average household size in the Melba SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 76.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (21.0%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 916 family households, couples with children account for 36.9% of all households, couples without children at home 27.6%, and single parent families 11.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the Melba SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 76.5% (versus 69.6% in Australian Capital Territory). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Melba SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.8% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.
Single-person households represent 21.0% of all households in the Melba 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 2.7% of households, below the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melba was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 83.5% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 78.1% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
Melba was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 21.9% of its population born overseas and 16.5% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Melba, at 45.4% of people, although more residents (47.6%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 40.7% across Australian Capital Territory.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Melba are Australian, comprising 27.2% of the population, English, comprising 24.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Melba (vs 0.6% across Australian Capital Territory), Croatian at 0.8% (vs 0.9%) and Serbian at 0.4% (vs 0.4%).
21.9% of the Melba SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% across Australian Capital Territory.
16.5% of the population in the Melba SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
1.6% of the Melba SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Australian Capital Territory.
91.0% of the Melba SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Melba is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 20.6% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 35.5% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 80.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,100 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 71st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 43.8% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 17.6% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 17th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Melba SA2, 35.5% of homes are owned outright, 43.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 20.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 80.8% of dwellings in the Melba SA2 are houses.
In the Melba SA2, 1.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 17.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Melba SA2 stands at 35.5%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Melba SA2 is $2,100, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Melba SA2 is $1,276, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Melba SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 20.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Melba SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Melba SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 20.8% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% in Australian Capital Territory), while renters spend 17.2% of income on rent (vs 19.0% in Australian Capital Territory).
The dwelling mix in the Melba SA2 consists of 80.8% detached houses, 17.6% semi-detached dwellings, 1.6% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Melba consumes approximately 12.7% of median household income ($10,072 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Melba's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 68th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 65.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.0% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the Melba SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.2% in Australian Capital Territory.
In the Melba SA2, 5.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.
9.6% of people in the Melba SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.0% of the Melba SA2 population, while in Australian Capital Territory, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.1% of people in the Melba SA2 have heart disease. Across Australian Capital Territory,2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Melba SA2, 57.1% 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 | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 98th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 42 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 6,666 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 82 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 120 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 42 public transport stops within the Melba SA2.
The Melba SA2 has 6,666 weekly trips across 120 routes, averaging 952 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 157 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 502 m away and the nearest school 545 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 42 stops nearby, 6,666 weekly trips, access rating 98 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 34 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 34th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 502 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 545 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 721 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.7 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).
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 Melba 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 Melba.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Melba compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Melba has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 19th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Melba reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Melba's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 8% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
The labour market performance in Melba lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
Melba shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Melba features high concentrations of couples with children, with a larger average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melba was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Melba is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Melba's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Melba has an estimated 3,429 residents, up 1.4% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in the area around Melba.
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 Melba.
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 (801011022). 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 Melba 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 Melba 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.
