Area profile · Rest of NSW
Bourke - Brewarrina has an estimated 3,423 residents, down 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 54 projects tracked in the area around Bourke - Brewarrina.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated 642 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, the Bourke - Brewarrina Statistical Area (Lv2) encompasses a unique regional environment along the Darling River, celebrated for its vivid landscapes, rich indigenous heritage, ancient rock art sites, and the historic Brewarrina Fish Traps, alongside cultural attractions like Baiame's Cave and the Bourke Outback Show. As of the latest population estimate date in Aug 2026, AreaSearch establishes the population at approximately 3,423 residents. This indicates minimal variation from the 3,428 people recorded at the 2021 Census, a conclusion grounded in the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures from the ABS alongside 84 Validated New Addresses confirmed following the Census.
The demographic and socioeconomic landscape of the area is characterised by an elevated proportion of children aged 0 to 4yo, an above-average number of children per family, and a prominent share of lone person households, alongside a population that typically reflects lower educational attainment.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 642 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, the Bourke - Brewarrina Statistical Area (Lv2) encompasses a unique regional environment along the Darling River, celebrated for its vivid landscapes, rich indigenous heritage, ancient rock art sites, and the historic Brewarrina Fish Traps, alongside cultural attractions like Baiame's Cave and the Bourke Outback Show. As of the latest population estimate date in Aug 2026, AreaSearch establishes the population at approximately 3,423 residents. This indicates minimal variation from the 3,428 people recorded at the 2021 Census, a conclusion grounded in the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures from the ABS alongside 84 Validated New Addresses confirmed following the Census.
The demographic and socioeconomic landscape of the area is characterised by an elevated proportion of children aged 0 to 4yo, an above-average number of children per family, and a prominent share of lone person households, alongside a population that typically reflects lower educational attainment.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,597 in 2001 and 3,420 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,423 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 14.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.8%.
Bourke - Brewarrina ranks in the 32nd percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 31st for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Bourke - Brewarrina is $304 a week, down 4.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 48% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 6.1%.
48% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $168 in 2017, $327 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $130 in 2017, $158 in 2020. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Sturt Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $275,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 46 Mertin Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $410,000 | 3 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Denman Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $40,000 | 28 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 26 Wilson Street, Brewarrina NSW 2839 | $220,000 | 19 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 106 Hope Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $33,000 | 17 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Charles Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $65,000 | 15 Jul 2026 | Street address |
| 94 Darling Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $250,000 | 10 Jul 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Short Street, Bourke NSW 2840 | $80,000 | 30 Jun 2026 | Street address |
| 24 Wilson Street, Brewarrina NSW 2839 | $58,000 | 29 May 2026 | Street address |
| 139 Bathurst Street, Brewarrina NSW 2839 | $260,000 | 14 May 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 32 residential sales recorded since 5 Dec 2025 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 32, houses and units together, was $195,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $304 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | -4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 6.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $268k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median price, latest residential sales | $195,000 | Median of the 32 most recent residential sales, settled 5 Dec 2025 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Bourke - Cobar - Coonamble | $300 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Far West and Orana | $462 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $582 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $727 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 43 tracked applications: 13 approved, 8 under assessment, 22 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 54 projects in and around Bourke - Brewarrina, 16 of them under construction.
Proposed wind farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) featuring up to 30 turbines (up to 280m in height) with a 216 MW installed capacity and a 50MW/100MWh BESS across approximately 7,800 hectares of agricultural grazing land.
Construction of a new Coach House building to replace the existing one for the safe storage and display of large historical exhibits, and the creation of a new interactive underground mining experience to enhance the visitor experience and showcase Cobar's mining heritage. This is Phase 2 of the Great Cobar Museum upgrades.
Cobar Shire Council is undertaking the Grand Central Precinct Planning and Design Project to drive economic and social revitalisation in the Cobar town centre.
Proposed residential subdivision on the former hospital site on Lerida Road, purchased by Cobar Shire Council in July 2022 to provide new housing options. The development is intended to attract families, professionals, and medical staff to Cobar and complement the adjacent health precinct.
High-grade polymetallic underground mine in the Cobar Basin producing zinc, lead, gold, copper, and silver. The project officially transitioned to commercial production on 1 July 2025 and is operating ahead of plan. Ore haulage is directed to the Peak processing plant.
The project involves constructing two new state-of-the-art pump stations at Nyngan and Hermidale to replace critically ageing infrastructure and ensure reliable water supply for the Cobar region. Cobar is one of the only towns in NSW without its own water source, relying entirely on 130 km of pipeline from Nyngan.
NSW is delivering five Renewable Energy Zones (Central-West Orana, New England, South West, Hunter-Central Coast, and Illawarra) to coordinate wind and solar generation, storage, and high-voltage transmission.
A water resource plan for the Macquarie-Castlereagh Alluvium, focusing on the sustainable management of water resources. It incorporates Traditional Owner knowledge, values, and uses in water planning to ensure equality in objectives and outcomes.
The Narromine to Narrabri section is Inland Rail's longest segment, comprising 306km of new single-track greenfield rail corridor in north-western NSW. It will connect the completed Parkes to Narromine section with the operational Narrabri to North Star section.
Upgrade of Newell Highway to enhance Melbourne-Brisbane freight route for safety, efficiency, and HPV access amidst growth in freight, tackling congestion, flooding, and road wear.
Aero Park Residential Estate is a council-led house and land subdivision on the north western fringe of Gilgandra. The approved estate comprises 57 residential lots, with stage 1 delivering 34 fully serviced lots and 5 earlier lots already developed along Farrar Street.
Gilgandra Solar Farm is a 5 MW ground mounted solar farm with approximately 12,000 photovoltaic panels, associated inverter stations and a battery energy storage system on an approximately 11.3 hectare project area west of Gilgandra.
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 17 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 5, 2027 4, 2028 3, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1. 23 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 43 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bourke - Brewarrina over the past 5 years, 25 in the last 12 months; 8 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 8, 2023 5, 2024 2, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 23.
Key application 46 Oxley Street, Bourke Commercial | $14m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 11th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 4 | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 13 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Bourke - Brewarrina in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 14th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Bourke - Brewarrina is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 area has seen 8 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Bourke - Brewarrina SA2's current population of 3,423 has been supported by 4 approvals on average over recent years.
The Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has seen 1.1 approval 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 925 people in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 4, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has seen 20 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential 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.
Bourke - Brewarrina has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,423 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -0.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 0 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,428 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 56,841.52 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 was estimated to be approximately 3,423 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,420 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The bourke - brewarrina sa2 has lost approximately 5 people and shown a 0.15% decrease from the 3,428 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -2.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (74.5%), Overseas migration (25.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 74.5% of overall population gains.
Bourke - Brewarrina's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 27th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 21.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.5% | 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 | 36 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 8.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Bourke - Brewarrina is 7 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 0 - 4 group, making up 8.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 5.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (8.1% vs 5.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 21.5% of the population in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.5% of the population in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $53,836 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $60,674 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,358 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $770 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,685 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is approximately $57,271. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,836.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is approximately $64,545. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $60,674.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is approximately $57,271 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,836 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is approximately $64,545 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,674 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2's households (~27.8% / 319 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.8% 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 Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $1,358/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $1,685/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $770/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $53,836 with the average level standing at $60,674. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $55,733 and $69,112 across Regional NSW respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,271 (median) and $64,545 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $5,389 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The bourke - brewarrina sa2's disposable income is $5,389 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Bourke - Brewarrina faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 59.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,474 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,317 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,594 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has approximately 1,474 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 stands at 7.5%, which is 3.4 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%.
The employment landscape in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (19.5% of employment), education & training (16.5%), and public administration & safety (16.0%). These three sectors alone account for 52.0% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is 59.7%, 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 bourke - brewarrina sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 19.5% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.7, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The bourke - brewarrina sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 10.0% growth, ranking 7th out of 37 regions nationally.
Bourke - Brewarrina faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 14.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 19.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 45.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
19.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
45.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The bourke - brewarrina sa2 ranks in the 17th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 are: Certificate (24.1%), Bachelor Degree (14.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.3%).
36.7% of the population in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 16.5% in primary school, 9.2% in secondary school, 2.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is 762, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 12 schools within the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 640 students.
The bourke - brewarrina sa2 includes 8 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 3 combined schools.
Bourke - Brewarrina features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 22.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 15.3% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,149 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,147 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.3% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 had 1,149 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,147 households today.
The average household size in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.4%), group households (2.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 739 family households, couples with children account for 23.9% of all households, couples without children at home 22.8%, and single parent families 15.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.4% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 have an average of 2.0 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 35.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 48.8% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 33.4% of all households in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, higher than 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 2.5% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Bourke - Brewarrina 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 | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.1% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 79.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 94.3% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
Bourke - Brewarrina was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 79.9% of its population being citizens, 94.3% born in Australia, and 95.1% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Bourke - Brewarrina was found to be Christianity, which makes up 65.5% of people in Bourke - Brewarrina. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bourke - Brewarrina are Australian Aboriginal, comprising 27.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 4.6%, Australian, comprising 26.2% of the population, and English, comprising 23.7% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional NSW's 30.5%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Irish is notably overrepresented at 7.7% of Bourke - Brewarrina (vs 8.8% across Regional NSW).
5.7% of the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
4.9% of the population in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
27.9% of the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
79.9% of the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bourke - Brewarrina is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 46.0% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.6% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $867 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 20.4% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $160 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 11.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 14.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 3rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, 33.6% of homes are owned outright, 20.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 46.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.0% of dwellings in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 are houses.
In the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, 1.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 stands at 33.6%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $867, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is $495, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 14.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 11.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 14.7% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 11.8% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 consists of 94.0% detached houses, 3.4% semi-detached dwellings, 1.6% apartments, and 1.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bourke - Brewarrina consumes approximately 8.4% of median household income ($5,880 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Bourke - Brewarrina 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 | 48.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 16th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.1% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.1% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
Around 48.0% of people in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, 4.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.6% of people in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.1% of the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.7% of people in the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2, 48.0% 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 low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 31 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 31st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 109 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 76th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 115 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 31 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 17 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 109 public transport stops within the Bourke - Brewarrina SA2.
The Bourke - Brewarrina SA2 has 115 weekly trips across 17 routes, averaging 16 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 6745 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 8.2 km away and the nearest child care centre 19.2 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 109 stops nearby, 115 weekly trips, access rating 31 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 5 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 5th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 8.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 19.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 19.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 19.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 20.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 20.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 20.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 46.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 71.1 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 102 places in Bourke - Brewarrina, about 2.7 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 Bourke - Brewarrina is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Bourke - Brewarrina.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Bourke - Brewarrina is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Bourke - Brewarrina has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 14th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Bourke - Brewarrina's affordable property market has recorded 71 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 62% residential, 27% commercial and 11% vacant land transactions.
Bourke - Brewarrina has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Bourke - Brewarrina's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Bourke - Brewarrina faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Bourke - Brewarrina faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Bourke - Brewarrina features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Bourke - Brewarrina is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Bourke - Brewarrina is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Bourke - Brewarrina is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low 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.
Bourke - Brewarrina has an estimated 3,423 residents, down 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 54 projects tracked in the area around Bourke - Brewarrina.
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 Bourke - Brewarrina.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (105011092). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, 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 Bourke - Brewarrina 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 Bourke - Brewarrina 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.
