Bellingen

SA2

Rest of NSW / Coffs Harbour

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 104021083 How we calculate this
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

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

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

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

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Bellingen

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The median house price in Bellingen is $873k, with units at $650k. House values have moved -0.8% a year compounded over five years.

Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Bellingen

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Bellingen has an estimated 6,217 residents, up from 6,168 at the 2021 Census. 109 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Fewer than ten people live on each square kilometre, across a boundary that takes in surrounding rural land. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to the analysis by AreaSearch, Bellingen has a population of approximately 6,217 in May 2026. This represents a growth of 49 residents (0.8%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 6,168 residents. This variation is derived from the ABS estimated resident population of 6,200 in June 2025 and 109 validated new addresses registered after the Census. This population size results in a density of 6.2 persons per square kilometer, indicating low density. The 0.8% increase in Bellingen's population since the census is 2.9 percentage points lower than the 3.7% growth in the SA3 area, showing positive local dynamics.

This growth was mainly driven by net overseas migration, which served as the primary source of population gains in recent times. Projections from ABS/Geoscience Australia published in 2024 with a 2022 baseline are used by AreaSearch for each SA2 area. For SA2 areas where this dataset is unavailable, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 with a 2021 baseline are applied. Age bracket growth trends from these sources are also projected for the period from 2032 to 2041. Based on expected demographic trends, the area is projected to experience growth in line with the lowest quartile of non-metropolitan regions nationwide, with an estimated rise of 229 residents by 2041 relative to the most recent annual ERP data, which represents a total growth of 3.4% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Bellingen SA2?
Total population for the Bellingen SA2 was estimated to be approximately 6,217 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,200 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Bellingen SA2 changed since 2021?
The bellingen sa2 has added approximately 49 people and shown a 0.79% increase from the 6,168 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Bellingen SA2?
The population density in the Bellingen SA2 is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Bellingen SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Bellingen SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Bellingen SA2?
Population growth in the Bellingen SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Bellingen

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130 new dwellings have been approved in Bellingen over the past five years, an average of 26 a year. That is 4.2 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 22 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 59% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 24, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Yearly residential approvals in Bellingen average approximately 26, with a total of 130 dwellings approved during the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25) and 22 recorded during FY-26 so far. An average ratio of 0.7 people moving into the area for each constructed dwelling over the past 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25) suggests that building activity is keeping pace with or running ahead of demand, providing options for buyers and supporting population growth beyond current estimates, with new dwellings carrying an average building cost of $333,000.

Additionally, commercial building approvals valued at $3.8 million have been logged during the current financial year, which highlights the dominant residential profile of the local area. Bellingen displays comparable per-capita development rates to the Rest of NSW, maintaining a balanced market in line with surrounding regions. Current construction activity consists of 59.0% detached houses and 41.0% apartments or townhouses, indicating a growing proportion of medium-density choices that provide various residential options across different budgets, ranging from traditional family homes to cheaper compact styles. This marks a clear shift from the existing housing stock (which stands at 95.0% houses), suggesting a reduction in available greenfield land and reflecting changing household preferences and a demand for more varied, lower-cost housing options. The figure of 192 people per approval highlights the low-density characteristics of Bellingen. Projections suggest Bellingen will add 212 residents by 2041 (calculated from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly estimate). Based on current construction volume, housing supply is expected to satisfy demand, creating positive conditions for buyers and potentially allowing population growth to outpace current projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Bellingen SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Bellingen SA2 area has seen 77 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Bellingen SA2's current population of 6,217 has been supported by 26 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Bellingen SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Bellingen SA2 has seen 0.42 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.58 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 192 people in the Bellingen SA2, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the Bellingen SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 212 people by 2041, around 106 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Bellingen SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Bellingen SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 26, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Bellingen SA2?
The population in the Bellingen SA2 is expected to grow by 212 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 106 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Bellingen SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Bellingen SA2 has grown by approximately 661 people, while 130 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Bellingen SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 26 approvals per year and a population of 6,217, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 212 people by 2041, around 106 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Bellingen

Development applications around Bellingen

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

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Bellingen

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AreaSearch tracks 3 current infrastructure and development projects inside Bellingen, worth an estimated $19 million. A further 56 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $4.93 billion. 22 are already under construction and 15 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, sports & recreation and communities, precincts & urban renewal. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Changes to local infrastructure, major projects, and town planning policies are key factors affecting regional performance. AreaSearch has identified 5 projects that are expected to influence the local area. Significant initiatives include the Retail & ShopTop Housing Development on Hyde Street in Bellingen, the Taylors Rise Estate, the Watson Place Affordable Housing project, and the Sewering Coastal Villages Project, with the most relevant ones detailed in the list below.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Bellingen SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Bellingen SA2 include: Retail & ShopTop Housing Development, Hyde Street, Bellingen (Approved); Taylors Rise Estate (Nearing Completion); Watson Place Affordable Housing (Completed); Sewering Coastal Villages Project (Construction); and Urunga Boardwalk Replacement (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Bellingen SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Bellingen SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Energy, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Bellingen SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Bellingen SA2 vicinity.
How does the Bellingen SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Bellingen SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rdth percentile.
Retail & ShopTop Housing Development, Hyde Street, Bellingen
Category: Retail
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Mixed-use development involving demolition, remediation, and construction of shop-top housing with 15 residential units and retail premises, on the site of the former Carl Foster's Garage. The project was approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel on 20 March 2019, with a capital investment value of $8,985,000. The proposal includes commercial space (a supermarket opportunity has been marketed for the site) and is located within the Bellingen Heritage Conservation Area.

Retail

Watson Place Affordable Housing
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Affordable housing complex providing 23 one-bedroom apartments for women over 55 at risk of homelessness. The project was officially opened in December 2024 and was delivered through RFBI's subsidiary, Bellorana, with $10 million in combined funding from the NSW and Australian governments. All 23 apartments were tenanted before the official opening.

Residential Development

Taylors Rise Estate
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025

Boutique residential estate offering 42 land lots ranging from 600sqm to 1621sqm, and brand-new completed homes, located near Bellingen CBD. Civil construction for the 42-lot subdivision was completed and registered in 2023, with home construction and lot sales progressing through completion.

Residential Development

Sewering Coastal Villages Project
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A major $38 million sewerage infrastructure project expanding the network to Mylestom, Repton, and Raleigh. The project involves a completed upgrade to the Urunga Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), doubling its capacity to 10,000 equivalent persons. Current works focus on installing sewer reticulation mains and 228 low-pressure sewer units at individual properties, and constructing new pump stations to replace failing septic systems and protect the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers.

Environmental & Disaster Management

Urunga Boardwalk Replacement
Category: Tourism
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Full replacement of the historic Urunga Boardwalk, part of the wider Urunga Precinct Revitalisation, following flood damage to the original structure. The upgrade widens the walkway to between 2.5 and 3 metres, installs over 300 fibre reinforced polymer piles, and rebuilds more than 850 metres of decking, viewing platforms, breakout areas and seating to improve accessibility, safety and tourism appeal. Construction began in July 2025. As of mid-2026 over 800 metres including the full 250 metre South Arm section is open to the public, with Stages 1 to 3 substantially complete and the final Stage 4 (360 metre breakwall section) underway, expected to finish late 2026.The project is being delivered by Bellingen Shire Council with XINC Engineering Pty Ltd (design and supply) and GPM Marine Constructions Pty Ltd (piling and installation).

Tourism

Black Wattle Estate - Urunga
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   

Black Wattle Estate is a six stage master planned residential land subdivision within the South Urunga Development Precinct, delivering about 320 housing lots from roughly 600 sqm up to 1,450 sqm. Stage 1 civil works and registration are complete with most lots sold, while later stages will add local parks, walking and cycle paths and bushland buffers. The estate is promoted as an environmentally and socially sustainable coastal community close to Urunga township, beaches, the Kalang River and regional centres such as Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.

Residential Development

Valla Urban Growth Area
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Valla Urban Growth Area is a long-planned mixed-use precinct near the Pacific Highway at Valla, intended to address residential and industrial land shortages on the NSW Mid North Coast. Stage One is under construction and will deliver 14 fully serviced industrial lots, with 13 lots expected to be released from mid to late 2026. Current works include the first internal road, water, sewer, stormwater, electrical, lighting and communications infrastructure. Future stages are planned to include about 700 homes, a town centre, further industrial land, schools, open space and public amenities.Council expects the completed precinct to support up to 2800 jobs and add about AUD 380 million per year to the local economy.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Boambee East Residential Subdivision
Category: Communities
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   

A proposed two-stage residential subdivision creating 70 residential lots comprising 63 Torrens Title lots and 7 Community Title housing lots, with concept approval for 70 dwellings. Stage 1 includes construction of an access road via Bruce King Drive, demolition of two existing dwellings, a fire trail lot, and a residue lot to be dedicated to Council. The development has faced significant community opposition due to concerns about clearing approximately 4,600 square meters of native vegetation including 3,000 square meters of Prime Koala Habitat, threatened ecological communities, and impacts on community land surrounding the Boambee East Community Centre.

Communities

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Bellingen

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2,719 residents of Bellingen are employed, from a labour force of 2,870. Unemployment sits at 5.3%, with participation at 56.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce is characterized by high levels of education and a strong representation in essential services, with an unemployment rate of 5.3% and a 0.8% estimated growth in employment over the previous year. As of March 2026, there are 2,719 employed residents, and the unemployment rate is 1.2% higher than the Regional NSW benchmark of 4.1%, while workforce participation is slightly low (56.1% compared to 60.6% in Regional NSW). Census statistics show that a moderate 24.1% of employees worked from home, although this may be influenced by pandemic restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are health care & social assistance, education & training, and retail trade. Education & training is particularly prominent in the area, with its share of local employment reaching 1.4 times the regional average. Conversely, public administration & safety is underrepresented, employing 5.4% of the local workforce compared to 7.5% in Regional NSW. The relationship between the census working population and resident population suggests that local job opportunities are limited. AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS statistics shows that over the 12-month period, employment rose by 0.8% and the labor force grew by 0.4%, leading to a decrease of 0.3 percentage points in the unemployment rate. This trend contrasts with Regional NSW, where employment fell by 0.9%, the labor force dropped by 0.4%, and the unemployment rate increased by 0.5 percentage points. Job growth expectations can be assessed using the national forecasts from Jobs and Skills Australia issued in May-25. These five-year and ten-year projections have been applied to the local workforce structure to model potential employment trends. Nationally, employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, but these rates vary considerably by sector. Projecting these industry-specific trends onto the local employment structure indicates that Bellingen's employment would rise by 6.8% over five years and 14.2% over ten years (this represents a simple weighting based on the industry mix and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Bellingen SA2?
As of March 2026, the Bellingen SA2 has approximately 2,719 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.3%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
How does the Bellingen SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Bellingen SA2 stands at 5.3%, which is 1.2 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Bellingen SA2?
The employment landscape in the Bellingen SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.5% of employment), education & training (13.3%), and retail trade (9.9%). Other significant employers include construction and accommodation & food.
How has employment changed recently in the Bellingen SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Bellingen SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Bellingen SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Bellingen SA2 is 56.1%, 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 the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the Bellingen SA2's employment market?
The bellingen sa2 shows notable specialization in education & training, which employs 13.3% of the local workforce compared to 9.6% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Bellingen SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Bellingen SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.8% over the next five years and 14.2% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Bellingen SA2 compare nationally?
The bellingen 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 3.9% growth, ranking 4.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Bellingen SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Bellingen SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 43.6% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (20.5%), education & training (13.3%), and professional & technical (7.1%). With projected employment growth of 6.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Bellingen

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Median household income in Bellingen is $1,317 a week (about $68,000 a year), with median personal income at $647 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $42,127 a year against an average of $55,468. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Aggregated postcode-level ATO data released for financial year 2023 indicates that the Bellingen SA2 had a median taxpayer income of $42,127 and an average income of $55,468. These figures are below the national averages and compare to median and average incomes of $52,390 and $65,215 across Regional NSW. Adjusting these figures for a Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023 results in estimated values of approximately $46,475 for median income and $61,192 for average income as of March 2026. The 2021 Census data indicates that household, family, and personal incomes in Bellingen are positioned between the 18th and 21st percentiles nationally.

Income distribution shows that the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly income bracket contains 30.4% of the population (1,889 individuals), which matches the broader region where 29.9% are in this range. Discretionary income remaining after housing costs stands at 85.5%, placing the area in the 23rd percentile nationally, while the SEIFA index ranks the area's income in the 5th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $46,475. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $42,127.
What is the average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $61,192. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $55,468.
How does the median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $46,475 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $42,127 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $61,192 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $55,468 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Bellingen SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.4% / 1,889 persons) of the Bellingen SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Bellingen SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Bellingen SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.4% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Bellingen SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Bellingen SA2 is $1,317/wk.
What is the median family income in the Bellingen SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Bellingen SA2 is $1,614/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Bellingen SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Bellingen SA2 is $647/wk.
How does the Bellingen SA2's income rank nationally?
The Bellingen SA2's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Bellingen SA2's median income among taxpayers is $42,127 and the average income stands at $55,468, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $52,390 and $65,215 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $46,475 (median) and $61,192 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Bellingen SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Bellingen SA2 is $4,878 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Bellingen SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The bellingen sa2's disposable income is $4,878 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Bellingen

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Bellingen had 2,264 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 95% detached houses and 1% apartments. 31% are owned with a mortgage, 22% rented and 47% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $370 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,517 a month. Rent absorbs 28.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 26.6%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the latest Census, the housing mix in Bellingen consisted of 95.4% separate houses and 4.5% other dwelling types (such as semi-detached properties, apartments, and alternative housing), compared to 82.6% separate houses and 17.4% other dwelling types in Regional NSW. Home ownership levels in Bellingen were higher than the Regional NSW rate at 46.5%, while the remaining homes were either mortgaged (31.4%) or rented (22.0%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $1,517 was lower than the Regional NSW median of $1,733, and the median weekly rent of $370 was higher than the Regional NSW median of $330.

Nationally, Bellingen's monthly mortgage payments are lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and weekly rents are slightly below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Bellingen SA2?
In the Bellingen SA2, 46.5% of homes are owned outright, 31.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.0% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Bellingen SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 95.4% of dwellings in the Bellingen SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Bellingen SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Bellingen SA2, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Bellingen SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Bellingen SA2 stands at 46.5%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bellingen SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bellingen SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Bellingen SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Bellingen SA2 is $370, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Bellingen SA2?
In the Bellingen SA2, 5.3% of rentals are $0-149/week, 34.9% are $150-349/week, 59.8% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Bellingen SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Bellingen SA2 is $829, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Bellingen SA2?
In the Bellingen SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Bellingen SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Bellingen SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Bellingen SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Bellingen SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.6% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 28.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Bellingen SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Bellingen SA2 consists of 95.4% detached houses, 3.6% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Bellingen SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $829. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,517/month, and renters paying $1,602/month.
How affordable is housing in the Bellingen SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Bellingen consumes approximately 14.5% of median household income ($5,703 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Bellingen SA2?
Recent development applications in Bellingen show attached dwellings contributing 62% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 38% of applications versus 95% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Bellingen

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Bellingen counted 2,264 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.5 people each. 27% are couples with children, against 28% couples without children. 26% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.8 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family households make up 69.7% of all households, consisting of couples with children at 26.5%, couples without children at 28.1%, and single parent families at 14.0%. Non-family households account for the remaining 30.3%, with single-person households representing 26.2% and group households representing 4.3%. The median household size is 2.5 people, which is higher than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Bellingen SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Bellingen SA2 had 2,264 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,282 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Bellingen SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 69.7% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (26.2%), group households (4.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 1,578 family households, 26.5% are couples with children, 28.1% are couples without children at home, and 14.0% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Bellingen SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Bellingen SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Bellingen SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Bellingen SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 41.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.6% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 26.2% of all households in the Bellingen SA2, similar to the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.3% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Bellingen

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33.3% of adults in Bellingen hold a university qualification, including 22.2% with a bachelor degree and 6.7% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 24.2% hold a vocational qualification. 6 schools serve the area, with 1,187 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,020 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Levels of education in Bellingen are higher than regional and state figures, with 33.3% of residents aged 15 and over holding a university qualification, compared to 19.8% in the SA4 region and 21.3% in the Rest of NSW. This educational profile positions the local community well for knowledge-intensive roles. Bachelor degrees are the most common higher qualification at 22.2%, followed by postgraduate degrees (6.7%) and graduate diplomas (4.4%). Vocational and technical qualifications are also common, with 37.1% of residents aged 15 and over holding credentials including advanced diplomas (12.9%) and certificates (24.2%).

Participation in education is high, with 33.0% of the population enrolled in an educational institution. This is composed of 12.4% in primary schools, 10.4% in secondary schools, and 3.7% enrolled in tertiary education.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Bellingen SA2 have university qualifications?
33.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Bellingen SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Bellingen SA2 have no formal qualifications?
29.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Bellingen SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Bellingen SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The bellingen sa2 ranks in the 71th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Bellingen SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Bellingen SA2 are: Certificate (24.2%), Bachelor Degree (22.2%), Advanced Diploma (12.9%).
What proportion of the Bellingen SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
33.0% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 12.4% in primary school, 10.4% in secondary school, 3.7% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Bellingen SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Bellingen SA2 is 1020, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the Bellingen SA2?
There are 6 schools within the Bellingen SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,187 students.
What types of schools are available in the Bellingen SA2?
The bellingen sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Bellingen

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Bellingen

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Public transport in Bellingen reaches 251 stops on 38 routes, timetabled for about 410 services a week. The typical home sits about 180 m from its nearest stop. Households keep an average of 1.5 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of public transport options reveals 251 active bus stops operating in Bellingen. These stops are serviced by 38 separate routes, which run a total of 406 weekly passenger trips. Access to transport is rated as excellent, with residents living an average of 177 meters from their nearest stop. Because the area is primarily residential, most workers commute to other areas, with private cars being the main transport mode at 88%, followed by walking at 9%. Average car ownership is 1.5 vehicles per household. Additionally, 24.1% of residents worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which was likely affected by pandemic restrictions.

Service frequency across all local routes averages 58 runs per day, which is equal to approximately 1 weekly run per stop. The accompanying map displays the 100 closest stops to the center of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Bellingen?
There are 251 public transport stops within the Bellingen SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Bellingen?
the Bellingen SA2 has 406 weekly trips across 38 routes, averaging 58 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Bellingen?
On average, residential properties are 177 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Bellingen

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69.1% of residents in Bellingen report no long-term health condition. 4.9% need daily assistance with core activities, and 47.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Bellingen has notable public health needs, based on analysis of death rates and the occurrence of long-term health issues, which affect both younger and older cohorts, combined with low levels of private health insurance, which is held by roughly 47% of the population (~2,946 people). This is below the Regional NSW average of 51.9% and the national average of 55.7%. Mental health conditions and arthritis are the most common medical diagnoses, affecting 9.6% and 8.6% of the population, respectively, while 69.1% of residents reported having no chronic health conditions, compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW.

Health profiles for working-age residents are in line with average trends. Residents aged 65 and over make up 24.0% of the population (1,492 people). Health profiles for older residents are very positive, with national comparisons exceeding those of the general public.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Bellingen SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 47.4% of people in the Bellingen SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Bellingen SA2?
In the Bellingen SA2, 4.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Bellingen SA2?
6.8% of people in the Bellingen SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Bellingen SA2?
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the the Bellingen SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Bellingen SA2?
3.2% of people in the Bellingen SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Bellingen SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Bellingen SA2, 47.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Bellingen

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Bellingen is largely Australian-born, at 83.2% of residents, with 5.1% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (31.2%) and Australian (26.8%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Bellingen has lower levels of cultural diversity than average, with citizens representing 87.6% of the population, 83.2% born in Australia, and 94.9% speaking only English at home. Christianity is the largest religious group, accounting for 28.4% of residents. The most distinct relative overrepresentation is found in Judaism, which is practiced by 0.5% of the population, compared to 0.1% in Regional NSW. The top parent countries of birth for residents are English (31.2%), Australian (26.8%), and Irish (10.4%). Some ethnic backgrounds show higher representation than regional averages, such as Welsh at 0.8% (compared to 0.5% regionally), Scottish at 9.4% (compared to 8.0%), and Hungarian at 0.4% (compared to 0.2%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Bellingen SA2?
Bellingen was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.6% of its population being citizens, 83.2% born in Australia, and 94.9% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Bellingen SA2?
The main religion in Bellingen was found to be Christianity, which makes up 28.4% of people in Bellingen. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.5% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Bellingen SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bellingen are English, comprising 31.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Bellingen (vs 0.5% regionally), Scottish at 9.4% (vs 8.0%) and Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.2%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
16.8% of the the Bellingen SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Bellingen SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
5.1% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Bellingen SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
2.7% of the the Bellingen SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Bellingen SA2?
87.6% of the the Bellingen SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Bellingen

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The median resident of Bellingen is 46, older than 81% of areas nationally. 17.1% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

Bellingen has a median age of 46, which is higher than the Regional NSW median of 43 and the national average of 38. The 45 - 54 age bracket is well represented at 14.6% compared to Regional NSW, while the 25 - 34 bracket is less common at 6.9%. Post-2021 Census data shows the 75 to 84 cohort has increased from 6.2% to 7.7% of the population, and the 35 to 44 cohort has grown from 11.0% to 12.1%. In contrast, the 5 to 14 cohort decreased from 15.2% to 12.9%, and the 55 to 64 group fell from 15.9% to 14.7%.

Significant changes in age structure are projected by 2041. The 75 to 84 cohort is expected to grow by 34% (162 people), rising from 477 to 640. Conversely, the 5 to 14 and 55 to 64 cohorts are projected to decrease in size.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Bellingen SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Bellingen SA2 is 46 years.
How does the Bellingen SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 46 years, Bellingen is 3 years older than the Regional NSW average (43 years) and 8 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Bellingen SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Bellingen SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.6% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Bellingen SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Bellingen SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.9% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Bellingen SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.9% vs 11.4%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Bellingen SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Bellingen SA2 is 17.4%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Bellingen SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Bellingen SA2 is 24.0%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Bellingen

Data currency Refreshed

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

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

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

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

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

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 109 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (6,168 at the 2021 Census → 6,217 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

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

Property sales

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

Rents

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

Development & infrastructure

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

Employment & income

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

Education, transport & amenities

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

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

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

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (104021083). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Bellingen SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
Where does the data on this Bellingen page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments.
Is the Bellingen data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Jul 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas