Area profile · Rest of NSW
Bega - Tathra has an estimated 9,145 residents, up 3.1% since the 2021 Census, with 79 projects tracked in the area around Bega - Tathra.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 172 kilometres south-southeast from Canberra CBD, the Bega - Tathra Statistical Area (Lv2) is characterised by a picturesque coastal setting, pristine beaches, and rolling green hills that offer opportunities for surfing, boating, fishing, and bushwalking. Demographically, the area demonstrates moderate expansion patterns, with its population reaching around 9,145 as of Aug 2026 based on AreaSearch analysis. This marks an addition of 273 people (3.1%) since the 2021 Census reported 8,872 people, inferred from an ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 9,070 as of June 2025 and 283 validated new addresses recorded post-census.
The local socio-economic landscape is distinguished by strong outright home ownership, lower-quartile income levels, a low average household size, and an above-average number of children per family. Economically, the region benefits from a notable healthcare employment base and elevated utilities employment.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 172 kilometres south-southeast from Canberra CBD, the Bega - Tathra Statistical Area (Lv2) is characterised by a picturesque coastal setting, pristine beaches, and rolling green hills that offer opportunities for surfing, boating, fishing, and bushwalking. Demographically, the area demonstrates moderate expansion patterns, with its population reaching around 9,145 as of Aug 2026 based on AreaSearch analysis. This marks an addition of 273 people (3.1%) since the 2021 Census reported 8,872 people, inferred from an ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 9,070 as of June 2025 and 283 validated new addresses recorded post-census.
The local socio-economic landscape is distinguished by strong outright home ownership, lower-quartile income levels, a low average household size, and an above-average number of children per family. Economically, the region benefits from a notable healthcare employment base and elevated utilities employment.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,928 in 2001 and 9,070 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,145 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 14.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29%.
Bega - Tathra ranks in the 60th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 58th for development activity.
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 Bega - Tathra is $538 a week, up 0.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 7% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
7% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $360 in 2017, $571 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Canning Street, Bega NSW 2550 | $540,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Bridle Place, Bega NSW 2550 | $940,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 43 Nelba Nelba Road, Black Range NSW 2550 | $860,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 5 Gordon Street, Bega NSW 2550 | $725,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Meringo Street, Bega NSW 2550 | $638,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Watson Street, Bega NSW 2550 | $582,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Corridgeree Lane, Tarraganda NSW 2550 | $1,400,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 65 High Street, Bega NSW 2550 | $445,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 159 Newtown Road, Bega NSW 2550 | $555,000 | 9 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 28 Buckajo Road, Bega NSW 2550 | $3,800,000 | 4 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 38 residential sales recorded since 11 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 38, houses and units together, was $697,500 (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 | $538 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +0.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $758k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $610k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $697,500 | Median of the 38 most recent residential sales, settled 11 Jun 2026 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $571 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $448 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +10.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, South Coast | $527 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, South Coast, over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Capital Region | $561 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Capital Region, over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 |
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Status of the 164 tracked applications: 75 approved, 38 under assessment, 51 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 79 projects in and around Bega - Tathra, 24 of them under construction.
A council-led planning proposal to rezone approximately 279 hectares of land south of the Bega township to enable around 2,200 new residential lots across three new neighbourhoods (Eastern, Central and Western precincts).
Upgrade of the Bega Sewage Treatment Plant to increase treatment capacity, improve compliance with NSW EPA licence requirements, enhance energy efficiency, improve sludge handling and wet weather performance, and provide capacity for the next 20 to 30 years.
Repurposing of the former Bega TAFE site on Barrack and East Streets into a 72-lot subdivision, yielding approximately 95 future homes. The project includes a 20-unit Seniors Living development, 4 lots for key worker and affordable housing, and 67 lots for the private market.
New residential land subdivision and construction of homes in central Tura Beach. The estate offers 20 spacious residential lots ranging from 900m2 to 1500m2 on level ground. Infrastructure including roads, power, water, and sewage have been installed, and new bespoke homes are actively being constructed by developer Tura Beach Homes Pty Ltd.
The final stages (8, 9, and 13) of the Mirador residential estate in Mirador NSW, involving the clearing of approximately 21.39 ha of native vegetation on a 52.5 ha site for low-density housing lots and associated infrastructure.
Adopted structure plan providing a strategic framework for the development of approximately 1,096 new dwellings across three major land holdings in Wolumla, effectively tripling the village population over an estimated 25-year timeframe.
A new commercial development featuring BCF and Supercheap Auto stores.
An 86-unit seniors housing facility in Merimbula approved by the NSW Land and Environment Court following a deemed refusal by the Bega Valley Shire Council.
A previously approved residential development for a four-storey complex with 40 luxury apartments and 68 car spaces on a 4,084sqm site. The project was put on hold due to rising construction costs and the site is currently being advertised for sale by the developer.
Proposal for a 100-room, four-plus star hotel and conference facility above the existing Club Sapphire on Main Street, Merimbula, part of the club's strategy to diversify income and reduce reliance on gaming revenue.
A luxury short stay hotel precinct on the site of the former Norfolk Pines Motel, marketed as 'Templo' (also referenced by developer Bulum Group as 'Mati'), comprising 14 townhouses, a 25-room hotel with day spa and gym, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant.
A five-storey mixed-use development with commercial uses on the ground floor and 52 residential apartments above. The project aims to increase housing diversity and includes street improvements and public domain works.
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 31 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 8, 2027 9, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1. 33 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 164 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bega - Tathra over the past 5 years, 129 in the last 12 months; 38 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 10, 2023 6, 2024 9, 2025 11, 2026 (to Oct) 127.
Key application 10 Lagoon Street, Bega Commercial | $30m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 164 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 129 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 74th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 60 | ABS building approvals | 65th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 75 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Bega - Tathra SA2 include: Bega Sewage Treatment Plant Upgrade (Planning); South Bega Urban Land Release Planning Proposal (Under Assessment); Barrack Street Bega Redevelopment Project (Planning); Wolumla Structure Plan (Approved); and Princes Highway Safety And Capacity: Nowra, Nsw To Victorian Border (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Bega - Tathra SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Environmental & Disaster Management, and Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Bega - Tathra SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 22nd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Bega - Tathra when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Bega - Tathra SA2 area has seen 115 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Bega - Tathra SA2's current population of 9,145 has been supported by 60 approvals on average over recent years.
The Bega - Tathra SA2 has seen 6.7 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 158 people in the Bega - Tathra SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Bega - Tathra SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 60, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 has grown by approximately 249 people, while 298 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 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.
Bega - Tathra has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,145 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 50 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 24th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,872 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 273 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 183.90 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Bega - Tathra SA2 was estimated to be approximately 9,145 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 9,070 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The bega - tathra sa2 has added approximately 273 people and shown a 3.08% increase from the 8,872 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is estimated at 50 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (61.4%), Overseas migration (38.6%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 61.4% of overall population gains.
Bega - Tathra hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 81st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 27.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 19.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.0% | 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 | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Bega - Tathra SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Bega - Tathra is 3 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Bega - Tathra SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 14.3% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Bega - Tathra SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.2% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.7% of the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 27.2% of the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 13% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,793 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $58,453 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,276 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $704 | 2021 Census, weekly | 29th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,655 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is approximately $50,842. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,793.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is approximately $62,182. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $58,453.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is approximately $50,842 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,793 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is approximately $62,182 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,453 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Bega - Tathra SA2's households (~29.0% / 1,032 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.0% 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 Bega - Tathra SA2 is $1,276/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is $1,655/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is $704/wk.
The Bega - Tathra SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Bega - Tathra SA2's median income among taxpayers is $47,793 and the average income stands at $58,453, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $50,842 (median) and $62,182 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is $4,714 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The bega - tathra sa2's disposable income is $4,714 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Bega - Tathra has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 57.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,126 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 9,870 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,286 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Bega - Tathra SA2 has approximately 4,126 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.7%. 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 Bega - Tathra SA2 stands at 3.7%, 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 Bega - Tathra SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (21.2% of employment), retail trade (10.9%), and construction (9.0%). Other significant employers include manufacturing and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Bega - Tathra SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force decreased. 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 Bega - Tathra SA2 is 57.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The bega - tathra sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 21.2% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% 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 bega - tathra 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.
Educational attainment in Bega - Tathra sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 23.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
23.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Bega - Tathra SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Bega - Tathra SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The bega - tathra sa2 ranks in the 46th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Bega - Tathra SA2 are: Certificate (28.9%), Bachelor Degree (16.5%), Advanced Diploma (9.4%).
27.7% of the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.2% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 2.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is 1006, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 8 schools within the Bega - Tathra SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,024 students.
The bega - tathra sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 2 combined schools.
Bega - Tathra features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,559 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,669 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.9% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Bega - Tathra SA2 had 3,559 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 3.1% to an estimated 3,669 households today.
The average household size in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 65.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (31.3%), group households (2.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,345 family households, couples with children account for 22.7% of all households, couples without children at home 30.5%, and single parent families 12.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Bega - Tathra SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Bega - Tathra SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 44.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.6% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 31.3% of all households in the Bega - Tathra 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 2.9% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Bega - Tathra is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.8% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.6% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Bega - Tathra was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 90.3% of its population being citizens, 89.6% born in Australia, and 95.8% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Bega - Tathra, at 46.7% of people, although more residents (50.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.3% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bega - Tathra are Australian, comprising 32.7% of the population, English, comprising 31.2% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 4.1% of Bega - Tathra (vs 3.1% across Regional NSW), Australian Aboriginal at 3.3% (vs 4.6%) and Dutch at 1.4% (vs 1.0%).
10.4% of the Bega - Tathra SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
4.2% of the population in the Bega - Tathra SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.3% of the Bega - Tathra SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
90.3% of the Bega - Tathra SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bega - Tathra 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 | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 43.9% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 87.8% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.0% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $320 | 2021 Census, weekly | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Bega - Tathra SA2, 43.9% of homes are owned outright, 29.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 87.8% of dwellings in the Bega - Tathra SA2 are houses.
In the Bega - Tathra SA2, 2.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Bega - Tathra SA2 stands at 43.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is $815, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Bega - Tathra SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Bega - Tathra SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Bega - Tathra SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 25.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Bega - Tathra SA2 consists of 87.8% detached houses, 8.7% semi-detached dwellings, 2.4% apartments, and 1.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bega - Tathra consumes approximately 14.8% of median household income ($5,525 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Bega - Tathra show attached dwellings contributing 34% of approvals compared to 12% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 66% of applications versus 88% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Bega - Tathra is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 47.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 11th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.3% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Around 47.2% of people in the Bega - Tathra SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Bega - Tathra SA2, 6.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.5% of people in the Bega - Tathra SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the Bega - Tathra SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the Bega - Tathra SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Bega - Tathra SA2, 47.2% 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 moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 44 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 44th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 211 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 624 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 28th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 43 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 40 | 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 | 10.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 211 public transport stops within the Bega - Tathra SA2.
The Bega - Tathra SA2 has 624 weekly trips across 40 routes, averaging 89 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 201 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.5 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.7 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 211 stops nearby, 624 weekly trips, access rating 44 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 36 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 36th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 5.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 5.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 85.3 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 3 long day care centres with 154 places in Bega - Tathra, about 3.4 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 Bega - Tathra is built to order and emailed to you.
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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 Bega - Tathra when compared nationally.
Bega - Tathra has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 22nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Bega - Tathra's affordable property market has recorded 182 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 84% residential, 9% commercial and 7% vacant land transactions.
Bega - Tathra has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Bega - Tathra hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 13% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
Bega - Tathra has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Educational attainment in Bega - Tathra sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Bega - Tathra features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Bega - Tathra is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Bega - Tathra is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Bega - Tathra is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate 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.
Bega - Tathra has an estimated 9,145 residents, up 3.1% since the 2021 Census, with 79 projects tracked in the area around Bega - Tathra.
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 Bega - Tathra.
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 Aug 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 (101041019). 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 (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, 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 Bega - Tathra 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 Bega - Tathra 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.
