Far West

SA2

Rest of NSW / Broken Hill and Far West

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 105021098 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 Far West

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The median house price in Far West is $250k. House values have moved -2.4% 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 Far West

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Far West has an estimated 2,302 residents. 231 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. 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 investigations by AreaSearch, the population of Far West stands at approximately 2,302 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 14 residents (0.6%) compared to the 2,288 individuals recorded in the 2021 Census. The adjustment is calculated using the ABS estimated resident population of 2,302 from June 2025 alongside 231 validated new addresses registered since the Census. This population level translates to a density of 0.00 residents per square kilometer, indicating a spacious living environment. The 0.6% expansion since the 2021 census was higher than the SA3 region (-0.3%), though overall growth is minor.

Population increases during recent periods were mostly driven by overseas migration, which accounted for roughly 51.6% of the gains. AreaSearch implements the 2024 population projections from the ABS/Geoscience Australia, which use 2022 as the baseline year. For SA2 regions lacking this dataset, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 with a 2021 baseline are applied. Age bracket growth trends derived from these sources are extended to cover the years 2032 to 2041. Looking at future demographic patterns, these models project a population reduction, with the local residency expected to shrink by 395 individuals by 2041. Conversely, expansion is anticipated within specific age cohorts, particularly the group aged 85 and over, which is forecast to grow by 51 people. See the age section for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Far West SA2?
Total population for the Far West SA2 was estimated to be approximately 2,302 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,302 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Far West SA2 changed since 2021?
The far west sa2 has added approximately 14 people and shown a 0.61% increase from the 2,288 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Far West SA2?
The population density in the Far West SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Far West SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Far West SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.3% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Far West SA2?
Population growth in the Far West SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (51.6%), Natural increase (48.4%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 51.6% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Far West

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Detail

Far West experiences minimal construction, averaging 2 building approvals annually (totaling 13 approvals over a five-year timeframe). These low levels of development are typical for rural locations where housing requirements remain minor and construction is naturally constrained by regional demand and infrastructure limits. Because approval volumes are so low, year-on-year growth rates and comparisons can show significant volatility depending on individual builds. Far West has much lower levels of construction activity than the Rest of NSW. The rate of building is also far below national averages. Additionally, new builds have consisted entirely of single detached houses, preserving the rural character of the locality with an emphasis on open space.

The ratio of 671 people in the area for every single dwelling approval underscores the quiet and low-activity nature of development here. Faced with static or decreasing population projections, Far West may see reduced pressure on its housing market, which could result in advantageous conditions for home buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Far West SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Far West SA2 area has seen 7 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Far West SA2's current population of 2,302 has been supported by 2 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Far West SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Far West SA2 has seen 0.11 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 671 people in the Far West SA2, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the Far West SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
Population forecasts suggest stable or declining population, reducing pressure on housing supply in the the Far West SA2 area.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Far West SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Far West SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 2, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Far West SA2?
Over the past five years, the Far West SA2 has seen 13 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Far West SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 2 approvals per year and a population of 2,302, stable population forecasts suggest a mature market with selective development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Far West

Development applications around Far West

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 Far West

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AreaSearch tracks 2 current infrastructure and development projects inside Far West, worth an estimated $917 million. A further 76 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $61.9 billion. 18 are already under construction and 20 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans energy, residential development 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

Local infrastructure projects, major planning decisions, and development initiatives are key drivers of regional performance. In total, AreaSearch has identified 10 projects that are anticipated to influence this locality. Primary developments include the Silver City Energy Storage Centre, the Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment - MHIPU, ED Upgrade and Key Worker Accommodation, the Broken Hill Community Health Centre, and the Broken Hill Town Square Redevelopment, with the compiled list highlighting the most significant undertakings.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Far West SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Far West SA2 include: Silver City Energy Storage Centre (Approved); Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment - MHIPU, ED Upgrade and Key Worker Accommodation (Completed); Broken Hill Community Health Centre (Completed); Broken Hill Town Square Redevelopment (Completed); and O'Neill Sporting Precinct Redevelopment (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Far West SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Far West SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Energy, and Health & Medical, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Far West SA2?
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Far West SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within the broader region.
How does the Far West SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Far West SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 21stth percentile.
Silverton Wind Farm
Category: Energy
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2020
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

199 MW onshore wind farm with 58 GE 3.x turbines located on the Mundi Mundi and Mount Robe Ranges in far west NSW. Fully commissioned in 2020. Operations of the wind farm transferred from AGL to Tilt Renewables in 2024 under long term arrangements. Generates around 780,000 MWh per year.

Energy

Murray River to Broken Hill Water Pipeline
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2019
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

270 km bulk water pipeline from the Murray River (Wentworth) to the Mica Street WTP at Broken Hill. Delivers up to ~37 ML/day with multiple pump stations and bulk storage, securing long term water supply for Broken Hill and nearby communities. Built for WaterNSW; operations and maintenance delivered under a JV including John Holland and TRILITY.

Environmental & Disaster Management

Broken Hill North Mine Project
Category: Energy
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

State Significant Development for recommencement of underground mining operations at the Broken Hill North Mine. The North Mine Deeps resource contains 3.7 million tonnes at 11.3% zinc, 13.5% lead and 219 g/t silver making it one of the highest grade deposits in the world.

Energy

Silver City Energy Storage Centre
Category: Energy
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Silver City Energy Storage Centre is a 200 MW / 1,600 MWh Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) facility being developed by Hydrostor at a disused mine site on the northeast outskirts of Broken Hill. The plant will store excess renewable electricity by compressing air into a purpose-built underground cavern, then release it through turbines during peak demand to provide more than 8 hours of long-duration storage. It will form the backbone of a Broken Hill mini-grid capable of supplying the town independently of the National Electricity Market, replacing ageing diesel generators and improving energy security across the Far West region.The project secured Crown Lands lease arrangements with the NSW Government in November 2024 (65-year lease), Development Application approval from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure in February 2025, and a USD 55 million credit facility from Export Development Canada in September 2025, on top of AUD 45 million from ARENA. In March 2026 the NSW Land and Environment Court upheld an appeal by neighbouring tourism operator Outback Astronomy and imposed amended consent conditions covering noise and light monitoring, consultation requirements at major project stages, and a requirement that a separate lapsed mining approval at the Flying Doctor deposit be confirmed surrendered before works commence. Construction is now expected to begin around September 2026, supporting up to 750 full-time equivalent job years and approximately AUD 240 million of expenditure in the local Broken Hill community.

Energy

Broken Hill Battery Energy Storage System
Category: Energy
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

50MW/100MWh Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage System with grid-forming inverters. Provides grid stability and energy storage for the National Electricity Market. Funded by ARENA to provide grid stability for the region. Became operational in August 2024.

Energy

Broken Hill Community Health Centre
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2018
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Integrated community health centre delivered as part of the Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment. The facility includes a five-chair dental health clinic, child and family/community health services and new staff offices. Works also reconfigured parts of the main hospital's ambulatory care wing.

Health & Medical

Broken Hill Town Square Redevelopment
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of the central town square completed in March 2025 to enhance accessibility, functionality, and event hosting capabilities. Features include improved all-abilities access to central lawn, new seating at footpath and lawn level, misting sculptures for cooling, integrated planter boxes with trees, feature paving showcasing local rocks and minerals, new shade structure inspired by mining heritage, and reinstallation of the Women's Memorial. The project forms part of a Welcome Walk linking the railway station to Sturt Park.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment - MHIPU, ED Upgrade and Key Worker Accommodation
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A comprehensive redevelopment of health facilities in Broken Hill, featuring a new 8-bed Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit (AMHIPU) and a $12 million Emergency Department (ED) upgrade. The ED works included a full internal refurbishment, reconfiguration for improved patient flow, and a new 24/7 dedicated entrance. The project also delivered 20 new key worker accommodation units to support staff recruitment and retention in the Far West region. Stage 3, the final phase of the ED upgrade, was officially completed in December 2025, marking the conclusion of the broader redevelopment works.

Health & Medical

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Far West

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918 residents of Far West are employed, from a labour force of 974. Unemployment sits at 5.7%, with participation at 52.3%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 4.5% 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

Far West has a balanced labor force that includes both white-collar and blue-collar occupations, showing wide sectoral representation, an unemployment rate of 5.7%, and relatively stable employment conditions over the preceding year. In March 2026918 local citizens were employed, while the unemployment rate was 1.6% higher than the Regional NSW average of 4.1%, and labor market participation was notably lower (52.3% in comparison to 60.6% in Regional NSW). According to Census responses, a substantial 32.7% of working residents performed their jobs from home, although this may have been influenced by COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are agriculture, forestry & fishing, education & training, and health care & social assistance. The locality is highly specialized in agriculture, forestry & fishing, with its share of employment reaching 8.6 times the regional average. Conversely, health care & social assistance accounts for only 7.6% of local jobs, which is lower than the 16.9% recorded across Regional NSW. Although local jobs exist, comparison of the Census working population against the local population suggests that a significant portion of residents travel outside the area for their employment. According to AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, employment figures held steady at 0.0% over the 12 months ending March 2026, while the overall labor force shrank by 2.2%, leading to a 2.1 percentage point reduction in the unemployment rate. By comparison, Regional NSW saw a 0.9% decrease in employment and a 0.4% contraction in the labor force, alongside a 0.5 percentage point increase in unemployment. National employment projections from May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia provide further context regarding future employment trends in Far West. These five and ten-year projections have been aligned with the local workforce profile to model potential growth. Nationally, employment is predicted to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though rates vary greatly by industry. Applying these sectoral forecasts to the employment structure of Far West indicates that local jobs could expand by 4.5% over five years and 10.4% over ten years (this represents a basic weighted extrapolation for demonstration purposes and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Far West SA2?
As of March 2026, the Far West SA2 has approximately 918 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.7%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the Far West SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Far West SA2 stands at 5.7%, which is 1.6 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 Far West SA2?
The employment landscape in the Far West SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (45.8% of employment), education & training (12.3%), and health care & social assistance (7.6%). These three sectors alone account for 65.7% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include public administration & safety and accommodation & food.
How has employment changed recently in the Far West SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Far West SA2 has experienced stable employment levels while the labour force decreased. 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 Far West SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Far West SA2 is 52.3%, 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%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
Which industries are over-represented in the Far West SA2's employment market?
The far west sa2 shows notable specialization in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 45.8% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 8.6, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. 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 Far West SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Far West SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 4.5% over the next five years and 10.4% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years.
How does the job market in the Far West SA2 compare nationally?
The far west 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 8.6% growth, ranking 2.0nd out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Far West SA2?
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Far West SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 21.3% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include education & training (12.3%), health care & social assistance (7.6%), and professional & technical (1.4%).

EarningsHousehold Income in Far West

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Median household income in Far West is $1,103 a week (about $57,000 a year), with median personal income at $583 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $53,186 a year against an average of $62,688. 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

The most recent postcode-level ATO statistics from AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year show that incomes in the Far West SA2 are below the national average, with a median of $53,186 and an average of $62,688. This compares to a median of $52,390 and an average of $65,215 across Regional NSW. Adjusting for Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since the 2023 financial year, current estimates point to approximately $58,675 (median) and $69,157 (average) as of March 2026. The 2021 Census reveals that household, family, and individual incomes in Far West are situated between the 7th and 10th percentiles on a national scale.

Regarding distribution, the $800 - 1,499 weekly income bracket contains 26.6% of the population (612 people), whereas in the metropolitan area, 29.9% of earners fall into the $1,500 - 2,999 range. Although housing expenses are low with residents keeping 92.3% of their income, total disposable income sits at only the 15th percentile nationally.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Far West SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Far West SA2 is approximately $58,675. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $53,186.
What is the average taxable income in the Far West SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Far West SA2 is approximately $69,157. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $62,688.
How does the median taxable income in the Far West SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Far West SA2 is approximately $58,675 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $53,186 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Far West SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Far West SA2 is approximately $69,157 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $62,688 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Far West SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~26.6% / 612 persons) of the Far West SA2's population is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Far West SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Far West SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 26.6% 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 Far West SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Far West SA2 is $1,103/wk.
What is the median family income in the Far West SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Far West SA2 is $1,288/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Far West SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Far West SA2 is $583/wk.
How does the Far West SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Far West SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $53,186 with the average level standing at $62,688. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $52,390 and $65,215 across Regional NSW respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $58,675 (median) and $69,157 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Far West SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Far West SA2 is $4,412 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Far West SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The far west sa2's disposable income is $4,412 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Far West

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Far West had 776 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 94% detached houses and 1% apartments. 13% are owned with a mortgage, 38% rented and 49% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $150 a week and the median mortgage repayment $932 a month. Rent absorbs 13.6% of household income here and mortgage repayments 19.5%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Residential property types in Far West at the time of the last Census consisted of 93.9% separate houses and 6.1% other housing types (including semi-detached properties, apartments, and alternative dwellings), compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings in Regional NSW. Home ownership in Far West was considerably higher than the Regional NSW average, standing at 49.2%, with the remaining properties occupied by households with a mortgage (13.1%) or renters (37.7%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the locality was $932, which is well below the Regional NSW average of $1,733, while the median weekly rent was $150, compared to the regional average of $330.

Nationally, mortgage repayments in Far West are much lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and rents are far below the national benchmark of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Far West SA2?
In the Far West SA2, 49.2% of homes are owned outright, 13.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 37.7% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Far West SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 93.9% of dwellings in the Far West SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Far West SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Far West SA2, 0.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Far West SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Far West SA2 stands at 49.2%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Far West SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Far West SA2 is $932, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Far West SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Far West SA2 is $150, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Far West SA2?
In the Far West SA2, 44.6% of rentals are $0-149/week, 53.9% are $150-349/week, 1.5% 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 Far West SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Far West SA2 is $367, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Far West SA2?
In the Far West SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 19.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 13.6% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Far West SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Far West SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Far West SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Far West SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 19.5% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 13.6% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Far West SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Far West SA2 consists of 93.9% detached houses, 3.4% semi-detached dwellings, 0.9% apartments, and 1.8% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Far West SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $367. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $932/month, and renters paying $650/month.
How affordable is housing in the Far West SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Far West consumes approximately 7.7% of median household income ($4,776 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 Far West SA2?
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Far West

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Far West counted 776 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.4 people each. 20% are couples with children, fewer than in 86% of areas nationally, against 26% couples without children. 37% of households are people living alone, and families average 2.1 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the majority of households at 61.3%, consisting of couples with children (20.4%), couples without children (26.2%), and single-parent homes (14.0%). Non-family households account for the remaining 38.7% of the total, with single-person households at 36.7% and group housing making up 2.1%. The median household occupancy is 2.4 people, matching the average for Regional NSW.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Far West SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Far West SA2 had 776 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 781 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Far West SA2 is 2.4 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 61.3% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (36.7%), group households (2.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 475 family households, 20.4% are couples with children, 26.2% 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 Far West SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Far West SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 36.7% (versus 27.9% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.3% compared to the regional 68.8%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Far West SA2 have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above 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 Far West SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 37.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 44.6% 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 36.7% of all households in the Far West SA2, higher than 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 2.1% 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 Far West

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15.3% of adults in Far West hold a university qualification, including 10.1% with a bachelor degree and 2.8% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 88% of areas nationally. A further 27.1% hold a vocational qualification. 6 schools serve the area, with 220 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 743 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

The region presents educational challenges, with university attainment rates (15.3%) sitting far below the NSW average of 32.2%. This situation highlights both a difficulty and a chance for focused educational programs. Bachelor degrees are the most common higher qualification at 10.1%, followed by postgraduate degrees (2.8%) and graduate diplomas (2.4%). Vocational and technical training is highly represented, with 35.9% of residents aged 15+ holding trade credentials, consisting of advanced diplomas (8.8%) and certificates (27.1%). Engagement in learning is high, with 33.1% of local residents currently enrolled in some form of study.

This cohort is made up of 14.7% in primary school, 8.9% in secondary school, and 1.7% enrolled in tertiary programs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Far West SA2 have university qualifications?
15.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Far West SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Far West SA2 have no formal qualifications?
48.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Far West SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Far West SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The far west sa2 ranks in the 12th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Far West SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Far West SA2 are: Certificate (27.1%), Bachelor Degree (10.1%), Advanced Diploma (8.8%).
What proportion of the Far West SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
33.1% of the population in the Far West SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 14.7% in primary school, 8.9% in secondary school, 1.7% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Far West SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Far West SA2 is 743, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Far West SA2?
There are 6 schools within the Far West SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 220 students.
What types of schools are available in the Far West SA2?
The far west sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 3 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Far West

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Far West

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Public transport in Far West reaches 18 stops on 10 routes, timetabled for about 1,100 services a week. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. 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

Public transit assessment indicates there are 18 active passenger transport stops in Far West, which consist of a combination of train and bus services. These stops are served by 10 distinct routes, which together provide 1,079 weekly passenger trips. Transport convenience is classified as limited, with residents living an average of 21460 meters from the nearest stop. Due to the residential nature of the area, most workers commute out of the locality, with private cars being the primary mode of travel at 66%, followed by walking at 28%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.5 cars per household.

A high proportion of residents, 32.7%, worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-related working arrangements. Service frequency across all routes averages 154 trips daily, which represents roughly 59 weekly trips for each transport stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Far West?
There are 18 public transport stops within the Far West SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Far West?
the Far West SA2 has 1,079 weekly trips across 10 routes, averaging 154 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Far West?
On average, residential properties are 21460 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Far West

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68.9% of residents in Far West report no long-term health condition. 3.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 50.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 8.3 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Far West displays notable health issues based on AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality patterns and the occurrence of chronic illnesses. Shared health conditions are common across younger and older demographics, and the rate of private health insurance is low at roughly 50% of the population (~1,160 people), compared to the national average of 55.7%. The most frequent medical diagnoses in the region are arthritis and asthma, each affecting 8.2 and 8.2% of the population, respectively. Meanwhile, 68.9% of residents reported having no long-term medical conditions, compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW.

Residents of working age experience higher than average rates of chronic health issues. Seniors aged 65 and over make up 21.5% of the local population (495 people), which is below the Regional NSW proportion of 23.4%. Senior citizens in the area enjoy positive health profiles, with national rankings exceeding those of the general population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Far West SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 50.4% of people in the Far West 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 Far West SA2?
In the Far West SA2, 3.5% 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 Far West SA2?
8.2% of people in the Far West 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 Far West SA2?
Diabetes affects 5.8% of the the Far West 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 Far West SA2?
4.4% of people in the Far West SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Far West SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Far West SA2, 50.4% 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 Far West

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Far West is largely Australian-born, at 95.1% of residents, with 2.0% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (27.0%) and English (24.5%). 24.2% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Far West registers below-average levels of cultural diversity, with citizens representing 80.6% of the population, 95.1% of residents born in Australia, and 98.0% speaking only English at home. The predominant religion is Christianity, practiced by 53.8% of the community, compared to 55.9% across Regional NSW. Regarding family heritage (parental birthplaces), the three largest groups in Far West are Australian at 27.0%, English at 24.5% (which is lower than the regional average of 30.5%), and Australian Aboriginal at 24.2% (which is significantly higher than the regional average of 4.6%). Other ethnic groupings display distinct variances: German heritage is higher at 4.1% of the population (compared to 3.1% regionally) and Macedonian is lower at 0.1% (compared to 0.4% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Far West SA2?
Far West was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.6% of its population being citizens, 95.1% born in Australia, and 98.0% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Far West SA2?
The main religion in Far West was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.8% of people in Far West. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Far West SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Far West are Australian, comprising 27.0% of the population, English, comprising 24.5% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.5%, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 24.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 4.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 4.1% of Far West (vs 3.1% regionally) and Macedonian at 0.1% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
4.9% of the the Far West SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Far West SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
2.0% of the population in the Far West SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Far West SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
24.2% of the the Far West SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Far West SA2?
80.6% of the the Far West SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Far West

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The median resident of Far West is 43. 23.4% 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

The median age in Far West is 43, matching the Regional NSW median of 43 and sitting above the national average of 38. The age distribution reveals a high concentration of individuals aged 55 - 64 (14.1%), while the 35 - 44 cohort is smaller (9.1%) than in Regional NSW. Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 75 to 84 has risen from 5.7% to 7.8%, and the 0 to 4 age group has grown from 5.4% to 7.0%. Conversely, the 35 to 44 cohort has decreased from 11.4% to 9.1%, and the 65 to 74 group has declined from 12.9% to 11.3%.

Projecting forward to 2041, demographic models indicate major shifts in the local age distribution. Leading these changes, the population aged 85+ is expected to grow by 76% (an increase of 41 people), rising from 54 to 96. Crucially, the combined cohorts aged 65 and over will account for 100% of the total population growth, illustrating the aging profile of the community. In contrast, the 75 to 84 and 25 to 34 brackets are expected to experience declines in population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Far West SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Far West SA2 is 43 years.
How does the Far West SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 43 years, Far West is equal to the Regional NSW average and 5 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Far West SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Far West SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 14.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Far West SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Far West SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 9.1% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the Far West SA2 is broadly in line with the Regional NSW region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Far West SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Far West SA2 is 19.1%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Far West SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Far West SA2 is 21.5%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Far West

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 2025 about a year ago all 2 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 2025.
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) Aug 2026 this 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 — 231 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (2,288 at the 2021 Census → 2,302 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 (105021098). 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 Far West 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 Far West 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 Far West 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 2025) 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 Aug 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