Area profile · Rest of NSW
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow has an estimated 23,070 residents, up 7.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Balgownie - Fairy Meadow Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 65 kilometres south-southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates a population of approximately 23,070 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 21,519 people, the population is estimated to have grown by 1,551 people (7.2%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 22,303 as of June 2025 and 517 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is noted for strong service amenity, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24yo, high semi-detached housing levels, an elevated education employment base, a pronounced proportion aged 85 and over, and substantial healthcare employment.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers and elderly people, many of whom are in group households. Population growth shows moderate expansion patterns. The area is described as a picturesque coastal setting along the New South Wales coastline, with natural scenery, open spaces, nearby beaches, parks and nature reserves, and a relaxed lifestyle.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Balgownie - Fairy Meadow Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 65 kilometres south-southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates a population of approximately 23,070 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 21,519 people, the population is estimated to have grown by 1,551 people (7.2%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 22,303 as of June 2025 and 517 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is noted for strong service amenity, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24yo, high semi-detached housing levels, an elevated education employment base, a pronounced proportion aged 85 and over, and substantial healthcare employment.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers and elderly people, many of whom are in group households. Population growth shows moderate expansion patterns. The area is described as a picturesque coastal setting along the New South Wales coastline, with natural scenery, open spaces, nearby beaches, parks and nature reserves, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 19,963 in 2001 and 22,303 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 23,070 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 16%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.5%.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for amenities and the 68th for transport & access.
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.
The median rent in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow is $682 a week, up 12.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 18% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.9%.
18% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $506 in 2017, $776 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $354 in 2017, $531 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 Edgar Street, Towradgi NSW 2518 | $1,450,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 35 Sherwood Drive, Balgownie NSW 2519 | $1,560,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 6/124 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 | $610,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 12 Elizabeth Street, Towradgi NSW 2518 | $1,550,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 49 Dymock Street, Balgownie NSW 2519 | $1,223,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 14/6 Kembla Street, Balgownie NSW 2519 | $813,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 1/68 Donald Street, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 | $535,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 103 Hopewood Crescent, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 | $1,125,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 24 Matthew Street, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 | $2,210,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 26 Ellengowan Crescent, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 | $2,135,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 49 residential sales recorded since 21 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 7 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 49, houses and units together, was $1,175,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $682 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +12.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.40m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $670k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,175,000 | Median of the 49 most recent residential sales, settled 21 Jul 2026 to 7 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $776 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +9.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $531 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +9.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Wollongong | $678 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wollongong, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Illawarra | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Illawarra, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 256 tracked applications: 123 approved, 43 under assessment, 90 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Balgownie - Fairy Meadow, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 10 projects in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow (3 under construction) and 116 more in the surrounding area.
A major redevelopment of the IRT Towradgi Retirement Village site. While a 2025 proposal for an 87-unit seniors living community (Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach) was not approved by the Wollongong Local Planning Panel in April 2026 due to site constraints including flooding, IRT Group is currently exploring alternative development pathways to deliver…
Joint Australian and NSW Government project to replace the existing at-grade M1 Princes Motorway and Mount Ousley Road intersection with a safer grade-separated interchange at the gateway to Wollongong.
Sylvan Ridge is a 22-lot residential land estate at the foot of the Illawarra Escarpment in Balgownie. Developed and built by Realta, the estate offers lots from 595m2 to 7734m2 for custom homes in a private natural setting, with internal roads, drainage, floodway works and retaining walls progressing.
Demolition of existing commercial structures and construction of a four-storey mixed-use shop top housing development at the corner of Princes Highway and Daisy Street, Fairy Meadow.
Demolition of existing structures and construction of a dual occupancy with Torrens title subdivision into two lots. The project was approved by Wollongong City Council in February 2026.
New purpose-built ambulance station with internal parking for up to five emergency vehicles, a wash bay, administration and office areas, staff rest facilities, logistics and storage. Delivered under the NSW RAIR program to enhance emergency health care for the Wollongong community.
A boutique residential development featuring three premium three-bedroom townhouses on an 834 sqm site. Developed by Assured Projects, the project reached completion in early 2026, with units such as 61C selling in March 2026. The development provides modern, medium-density housing within walking distance of Towradgi Beach and local educational facilities.
Construction of a major grade-separated interchange on the M1 Princes Motorway at the base of Mount Ousley. The project replaces the existing traffic lights with a new bridge, heavy vehicle bypass lanes, safety ramps, commuter car parking, and a shared pedestrian/cyclist bridge to improve regional freight efficiency and commuter safety.
A small residential development of 3 premium townhouses on an 834sqm site in Towradgi, a beachside suburb approximately 5km north of Wollongong. Developed by Assured Projects Pty Ltd and funded through CrowdProperty staged construction financing.
The Corrimal Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program enables high-density residential growth within 400m of the station. The flagship project, 'The Works Corrimal' (formerly Corrimal Coke Works), is a masterplanned precinct delivering roughly 850 dwellings and 9ha of parkland.
The NSW Government invested $21.9 million to upgrade Wollongong Hospital, delivering a new MRI machine and CT scanner housed in a new medical imaging suite within the hospital atrium, closer to the Emergency Department for faster diagnostics.
Accessibility upgrade under the Transport Access Program, including two new lifts, a new family accessible toilet on each platform, upgraded CCTV and lighting for improved safety, upgraded footpaths, a new kiss and ride space, a new Boarding Assistance Zone, hearing loops, removal of the existing track level crossing, and a new public art display.
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 80 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 23, 2027 34, 2028 8, 2029 7, 2030 3, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 1. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 256 substantial development applications lodged in and around Balgownie - Fairy Meadow over the past 5 years, 206 in the last 12 months; 43 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 15, 2023 10, 2024 15, 2025 11, 2026 (to Oct) 203.
Key application 17A Murranar Road, Towradgi Aged Care | $112m | 87 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 256 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 206 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 95 | ABS building approvals | 78th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 123 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 include: Mount Ousley Interchange (Construction); Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach (Planning); Sylvan Ridge (Construction); 68-74 Princes Highway Mixed-Use Development (Dev. Approval); and Mount Ousley Interchange Project (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Balgownie - Fairy Meadow when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 area has seen 169 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2's current population of 23,070 has been supported by 95 approvals on average over recent years.
The Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has seen 4.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 267 people in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 95, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has grown by approximately 463 people, while 474 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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 Balgownie - Fairy Meadow reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 23,070 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +7.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,881 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 21,519 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,551 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 12.26 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 was estimated to be approximately 23,070 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 22,303 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2 has added approximately 1,551 people and shown a 7.21% increase from the 21,519 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is estimated at 1,882 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (86.4%), Natural increase (13.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 86.4% of overall population gains.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.4% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 16.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.1% | 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 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Balgownie - Fairy Meadow is 4 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) yet comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 16.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 9.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 15-24 year-olds (16.0% vs 11.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.4% of the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.2% of the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $58,974 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $78,517 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,635 | 2021 Census, weekly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $728 | 2021 Census, weekly | 34th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 25.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,190 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is approximately $62,737. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $58,974.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is approximately $83,526. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $78,517.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is approximately $62,737 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,974 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is approximately $83,526 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $78,517 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2's households (~27.5% / 2,250 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.5% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $1,635/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $2,190/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $728/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $58,974 while the average income stands at $78,517. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $62,737 (median) and $83,526 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $5,927 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2's disposable income is $5,927 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 63.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 11,385 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,539 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 11,897 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has approximately 11,385 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 stands at 4.3%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.1% of employment), education & training (12.5%), and retail trade (8.7%). Other significant employers include construction and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is 63.3%, 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 leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 12.5% of the local workforce compared to 9.6% across Regional NSW. 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.
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The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.2% growth, ranking 17th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Balgownie - Fairy Meadow ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 18.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 29.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 36.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
29.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
36.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2 ranks in the 62th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 are: Certificate (23.7%), Bachelor Degree (18.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.7%).
31.0% of the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.6% in primary school, 6.8% in secondary school, 9.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is 1042, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 10 schools within the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,637 students.
The balgownie - fairy meadow sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow features high concentrations of group households, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.5% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 29.1% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,174 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,763 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 67.3% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 had 8,174 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.2% to an estimated 8,763 households today.
The average household size in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 67.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.5%), group households (5.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,501 family households, couples with children account for 29.1% of all households, couples without children at home 25.3%, and single parent families 11.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 44.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 27.5% of all households in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 5.1% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow 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 | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 18.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 81.6% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 77.1% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 22.9% of its population born overseas and 18.4% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.7% of people in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 3.4% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow are English, comprising 24.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional NSW's 30.5%, Australian, comprising 24.4% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional NSW's 30.0%, and Other, comprising 8.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Italian is notably overrepresented at 7.7% of Balgownie - Fairy Meadow (vs 2.1% across Regional NSW), Macedonian at 1.0% (vs 0.4%) and Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.5%).
22.9% of the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
18.4% of the population in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
1.5% of the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
88.6% of the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 32.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.4% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 68.1% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,219 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 20.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $380 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 23.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 31.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 92nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, 39.4% of homes are owned outright, 28.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 32.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 68.1% of dwellings in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 are houses.
In the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, 11.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 20.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 stands at 39.4%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $2,219, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is $1,157, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 31.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 23.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 31.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 23.2% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 consists of 68.1% detached houses, 20.2% semi-detached dwellings, 11.1% apartments, and 0.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow consumes approximately 16.3% of median household income ($7,080 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow show attached dwellings contributing 67% of approvals compared to 32% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 33% of applications versus 68% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow: private health cover 56.5%, no long-term health condition 67.4%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 67.4% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.9% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
Around 56.5% of people in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, 6.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.1% of people in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.2% of the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2, 56.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 68 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 68th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 205 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,910 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 109 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 58 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 32.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 205 public transport stops within the Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2.
The Balgownie - Fairy Meadow SA2 has 2,910 weekly trips across 58 routes, averaging 415 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 147 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 396 m away and the nearest school 482 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 205 stops nearby, 2,910 weekly trips, access rating 68 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 97 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 97th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 396 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 482 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 650 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 684 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 746 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 944 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 12 long day care centres with 507 places in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow, about 2.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Balgownie - Fairy Meadow 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 Balgownie - Fairy Meadow.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Balgownie - Fairy Meadow when compared nationally.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow's established property market has recorded 323 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 97% residential and 3% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
The educational profile of Balgownie - Fairy Meadow ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow features high concentrations of group households, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow: private health cover 56.5%, no long-term health condition 67.4%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Balgownie - Fairy Meadow has an estimated 23,070 residents, up 7.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Balgownie - Fairy Meadow.
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 Balgownie - Fairy Meadow.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Apr 2026. Housing, households 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 14 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 (107041144). 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), infrastructure projects (Apr 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Balgownie - Fairy Meadow 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 Balgownie - Fairy Meadow 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.
