Forster

SA2

Rest of NSW / Great Lakes

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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 Forster

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The median house price in Forster is $890k, with units at $650k. House values have moved 4.9% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Forster

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Forster has an estimated 15,047 residents, up from 14,709 at the 2021 Census — a change of 338 people, or 2.3%. 575 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. That puts 444 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to the analysis conducted by AreaSearch, the population of Forster stands at approximately 15,047 as of May 2026. This indicates a growth of 338 residents (2.3%) from the 14,709 individuals recorded during the 2021 Census. This calculation is derived from the ABS estimated resident population of 15,043 in June 2025 alongside 575 validated new addresses identified since the Census. Such a population size results in a density of 444 persons per square kilometer, which suggests a low-density environment with space for potential future projects. The post-census expansion rate of 2.3% is within 0.6 percentage points of the broader SA3 region (2.9%), reflecting solid local demand.

The primary driver of this growth was interstate migration, which accounted for roughly 80.6% of the population increase in recent times. AreaSearch incorporates SA2 level population projections published by the ABS and Geoscience Australia in 2024, using 2022 as the baseline. For areas not covered in this dataset, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 with a 2021 baseline are applied. Demographic growth projections by age cohort from these sources are extended to span the years 2032 to 2041. Based on these anticipated demographic patterns, the area is projected to experience growth slightly below the median rate for non-metropolitan regions across the country, increasing by 1,647 people by 2041 relative to the most recent annual ERP statistics, representing an overall expansion of 10.9% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Forster SA2?
Total population for the Forster SA2 was estimated to be approximately 15,047 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 15,043 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Forster SA2 changed since 2021?
The forster sa2 has added approximately 338 people and shown a 2.30% increase from the 14,709 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Forster SA2?
The population density in the Forster SA2 is estimated at 444 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Forster SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Forster SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Forster SA2?
Population growth in the Forster SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (80.6%), Overseas migration (19.4%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 80.6% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Forster

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588 new dwellings have been approved in Forster over the past five years, an average of 117 a year. That places the area in the 72nd percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 8 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 107 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 60% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 49, well below that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

An average of approximately 117 residential building approvals have been granted annually in Forster, representing 588 new dwellings over the last 5 financial years. In the current financial year of FY-26, there have been 45 approvals recorded so far. With an average of 0.5 new residents per year added for each completed dwelling over the past 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), the pace of construction is meeting or exceeding demand, providing buyers with diverse options and creating potential for population growth to surpass current forecasts, while the average construction cost of these new homes is $416,000, slightly higher than the regional benchmark, indicating a focus on higher-quality builds.

Furthermore, commercial development approvals have reached $21.4 million in the current financial year, demonstrating ongoing commercial investment. Forster displays relatively high construction activity when compared to the Rest of NSW, tracking 32.0% above the regional average per capita over the 5 year period, which maintains choice for buyers and helps anchor existing home values. The mix of new construction consists of 60.0% standalone houses and 40.0% attached dwellings, with a rising share of townhouses and apartments offering choices across various price levels, ranging from larger family residences to smaller, more affordable options. There are roughly 100 people for each dwelling approval, reflecting a low-density market environment. Long-term projections indicate that Forster will add 1,643 residents by 2041, based on the latest quarterly calculations from AreaSearch. If current building trends persist, the supply of new housing is expected to easily accommodate this demand, supporting stable conditions for purchasers and potentially allowing population growth to outpace current forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Forster SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Forster SA2 area has seen 336 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Forster SA2's current population of 15,047 has been supported by 117 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Forster SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Forster SA2 has seen 0.8 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 100 people in the Forster SA2, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the Forster SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 1,643 people by 2041, around 822 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Forster SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Forster SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 117, showing modest growth in recent years.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Forster SA2?
The population in the Forster SA2 is expected to grow by 1,643 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 822 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Forster SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Forster SA2 has grown by approximately 2,016 people, while 588 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Forster SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 117 approvals per year and a population of 15,047, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 1,643 people by 2041, around 822 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Forster

Development applications around Forster

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 Forster

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AreaSearch tracks 8 current infrastructure and development projects inside Forster, worth an estimated $634 million. A further 76 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $5.71 billion. 20 are already under construction and 20 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities 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 developments, and urban planning changes are key drivers of regional outcomes. AreaSearch has identified 10 projects expected to influence the local area. Principal developments include the Lower Mid North Coast Health Service Project - Forster-Tuncurry Health Facility, the Forster and Old Bar New Ambulance Stations, the Forster Gateway Development - The Lakes Way, and the Forster Main Beach Masterplan, with details on the most relevant initiatives provided below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Forster SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Forster SA2 include: Lower Mid North Coast Health Service Project - Forster-Tuncurry Health Facility (Planning); Forster and Old Bar New Ambulance Stations (Planning); Forster Gateway Development - The Lakes Way (Planning); Forster Main Beach Masterplan (Construction); and 6-12 Head Street Residential Development Site (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Forster SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Forster SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Health & Medical, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Forster SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $1.3 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Forster SA2 vicinity.
How does the Forster SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Forster SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
Lower Mid North Coast Health Service Project - Forster-Tuncurry Health Facility
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The NSW Government is investing $180 million in the Lower Mid North Coast Health Service Project, which brings together the Manning Base Hospital Redevelopment Stage 2 and the Forster-Tuncurry health facility. Manning works are advancing through planning, public exhibition and contractor involvement, while planning for a Forster-Tuncurry health service model is continuing with options being considered with clinicians, stakeholders and the community.

Health & Medical

Forster Gateway Development - The Lakes Way
Category: Communities
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

Proposed redevelopment of a 25.12ha site along The Lakes Way, Forster, accommodating a mix of residential, commercial and conservation zones. The site includes the Great Lakes Tavern and bottleshop, a shopping complex, motel, cafe/bar and houses. The planning proposal, endorsed by MidCoast Council at its March 2025 ordinary meeting, is now before the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a gateway determination ahead of community consultation. The site has potential to provide approximately 135 dwellings across residential flat buildings, units, villas, dual occupancies, terrace houses and single dwellings in low-medium density residential and mixed-use zones.

Communities

Forster Main Beach Masterplan
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2048
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A comprehensive 30-year strategy to revitalise the Forster Main Beach precinct. It includes upgrading the Ocean Baths, building a new Surf Life Saving Club, improving public amenities, and creating more accessible public green spaces.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Forster Civic Precinct - Solaris
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2023
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A completed mixed-use precinct in Forster featuring a new public library, visitor information centre, customer service point, community spaces, retail and dining tenancies, and a residential apartment tower, with future stages encompassing seniors living facilities.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Forster and Old Bar Ambulance Stations
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

New ambulance stations in Forster and Old Bar providing improved emergency medical services coverage for the Mid North Coast region. Both stations are now completed and operational as part of the NSW Government's $232 million Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration (RAIR) program.

Health & Medical

4-12 Breese Parade Large Format Retail Development
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024

A large-format retail development offering up to 4,000 square metres of gross leasable area in the retail heart of Forster. The former MidCoast Council site was sold for $12.72 million and features prime positioning directly opposite Stockland Forster shopping centre with high exposure and accessibility. The development includes rear loading facilities and showroom space across a commanding 14,110mý site with B2 Local Centre zoning.

Retail

6-12 Head Street Residential Development Site (Golden Sands Motor Inn)
Category: Communities
Stage: Proposed | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

Beachside high-rise residential or hotel development site at the former Golden Sands Motor Inn, with a combined site area of 3373 square metres across four titles and potential gross floor area of up to 14535 square metres. Zoned R4 High Density with a 33-metre height limit allowing up to 11 storeys. The site has two street frontages and is located about 350 metres from Forster Main Beach and the town centre. Following a competitive Expressions of Interest campaign that closed in May 2025, the property was sold in July 2025; the purchaser has not been publicly named and no development application has yet been lodged with MidCoast Council.

Communities

Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes
Category: Tourism
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A luxury over-50s land lease resort featuring 400 Florida Keys-inspired homes with world-class facilities including the award-winning Belleair Country Club, Rhodes Sports Club with championship bowling green, marina with pontoons, indoor/outdoor pools, luxury cinema, gymnasium, and extensive recreational amenities beside Wallis Lake.

Tourism

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Forster

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5,639 residents of Forster are employed, from a labour force of 5,929. Unemployment sits at 4.9%, with participation at 45.4%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.9% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce in Forster is balanced between white-collar and blue-collar occupations, with a strong presence in essential services sectors and a local unemployment rate of 4.9%. In March 2026, the employed resident count reached 5,639, with the unemployment rate tracking 0.8% higher than the Regional NSW benchmark of 4.1%, while workforce participation is low at 45.4% compared to 60.6% for Regional NSW. Data from the Census indicates that a low 11.2% of the workforce worked from home, though this figure was likely influenced by COVID-19 restrictions. The primary employment sectors for local residents are health care & social assistance, retail trade, and accommodation & food.

The region displays a high concentration of jobs in health care & social assistance, with its employment share reaching 1.3 times the regional average. In contrast, agriculture, forestry & fishing is underrepresented at 1.6% of the workforce compared to the regional average of 5.3%. A comparison between the Census working population and resident population suggests limited local employment opportunities within the immediate area. An analysis of SALM and ABS statistics by AreaSearch shows that over the 12-month period, the local labour force shrank by 3.3% while employment fell by 4.0%, leading to a 0.7 percentage point increase in the unemployment rate. This compares to Regional NSW, where employment declined by 0.9%, the labour force contracted by 0.4%, and the unemployment rate rose by 0.5 percentage points. National employment projections released by Jobs and Skills Australia in May-25 offer additional context on future demand trends for Forster. These five and ten-year projections have been applied to the local workforce composition to estimate growth. Although national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, the rates of change vary widely by industry. Applying these sectoral growth rates to the local industry mix suggests employment in Forster could grow by 6.9% over five years and 14.3% over ten years, though this is a basic weighted calculation for demonstration purposes and does not incorporate local population forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Forster SA2?
As of March 2026, the Forster SA2 has approximately 5,639 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.9%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the Forster SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Forster SA2 stands at 4.9%, which is 0.8 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 Forster SA2?
The employment landscape in the Forster SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.1% of employment), retail trade (13.4%), and accommodation & food (12.1%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
How has employment changed recently in the Forster SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Forster SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Forster SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Forster SA2 is 45.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
Which industries are over-represented in the Forster SA2's employment market?
The forster sa2 shows notable specialization in health care & social assistance, which employs 22.1% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Forster SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Forster SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.9% over the next five years and 14.3% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Forster SA2 compare nationally?
The forster 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 3.9% growth, ranking 4.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Forster SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Forster SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 37.8% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (22.1%), education & training (9.2%), and professional & technical (4.2%). With projected employment growth of 6.9% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Forster

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Median household income in Forster is $1,015 a week (about $53,000 a year), with median personal income at $582 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $44,342 a year against an average of $57,485. 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

According to the latest postcode level ATO statistics released for financial year 2023, taxpaying residents in the Forster SA2 recorded a median income of $44,342 and an average income of $57,485. This is lower than national benchmarks, and compares to a median of $52,390 and an average of $65,215 across Regional NSW. Adjusting for a Wage Price Index increase of 10.32% since financial year 2023, estimated incomes as of March 2026 are approximately $48,918 for the median and $63,417 for the average. In the 2021 Census, household, family, and personal incomes in Forster all fell between the 3rd and 9th national percentiles.

The most common income band is $400 - 799, containing 30.7% of residents (4,619 people), whereas the surrounding region is led by the $1,500 - 2,999 band at 29.9%. Housing affordability is constrained, with only 82.7% of income remaining after housing costs, placing the area in the 5th percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Forster SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forster SA2 is approximately $48,918. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $44,342.
What is the average taxable income in the Forster SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forster SA2 is approximately $63,417. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $57,485.
How does the median taxable income in the Forster SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forster SA2 is approximately $48,918 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $44,342 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Forster SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forster SA2 is approximately $63,417 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $57,485 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Forster SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.7% / 4,619 persons) of the Forster SA2's population is the $400 - 799 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Forster SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Forster SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 30.7% 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 Forster SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Forster SA2 is $1,015/wk.
What is the median family income in the Forster SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Forster SA2 is $1,353/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Forster SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Forster SA2 is $582/wk.
How does the Forster SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Forster SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $44,342 with the average level standing at $57,485. 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 $48,918 (median) and $63,417 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Forster SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Forster SA2 is $3,638 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Forster SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The forster sa2's disposable income is $3,638 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Forster

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Forster had 6,478 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 66% detached houses and 17% apartments. 21% are owned with a mortgage, 27% rented and 52% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $340 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,712 a month. Rent absorbs 33.5% of household income here and mortgage repayments 38.9%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the latest Census, the housing stock in Forster consisted of 65.9% standalone houses and 34.1% other dwelling types (including semi-detached properties, apartments, and alternative housing), compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings in Regional NSW. Home ownership was high at 51.7%, with the remaining properties being mortgaged (21.1%) or rented (27.1%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the area was lower than the regional average at $1,712, while the median weekly rent was $340, compared to regional averages of $1,733 and $330. Nationally, Forster's mortgage payments are below the Australian average of $1,863, and rent levels are below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Forster SA2?
In the Forster SA2, 51.7% of homes are owned outright, 21.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.1% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Forster SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 65.9% of dwellings in the Forster SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Forster SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Forster SA2, 17.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 14.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Forster SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Forster SA2 stands at 51.7%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Forster SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Forster SA2 is $1,712, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Forster SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Forster SA2 is $340, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Forster SA2?
In the Forster SA2, 2.6% of rentals are $0-149/week, 48.3% are $150-349/week, 48.2% are $350-649/week, 0.9% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Forster SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Forster SA2 is $760, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Forster SA2?
In the Forster SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 38.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.5% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Forster SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Forster SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Forster SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Forster SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 38.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 33.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Forster SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Forster SA2 consists of 65.9% detached houses, 14.7% semi-detached dwellings, 17.3% apartments, and 2.1% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Forster SA2?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $760. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,712/month, and renters paying $1,472/month.
How affordable is housing in the Forster SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Forster consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($4,395 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 Forster SA2?
Recent development applications in Forster show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 34% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 66% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Forster

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Forster counted 6,478 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.1 people each. 16% are couples with children, fewer than in 93% of areas nationally, against 35% couples without children. 35% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.9 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family households represent the majority of dwellings at 62.2%, consisting of couples with children at 16.0%, couples without children at 35.0%, and single-parent households at 10.4%. Non-family households account for the remaining 37.8%, with single-person households representing 34.7% and group households making up 3.1%. The median household size is 2.1 people, which is smaller than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Forster SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Forster SA2 had 6,478 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.3% to an estimated 6,627 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Forster SA2 is 2.1 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 62.2% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (34.7%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 4,029 family households, 16.0% are couples with children, 35.0% are couples without children at home, and 10.4% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Forster SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Forster SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.7% (versus 27.9% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.2% 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 Forster SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Forster SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 47.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 26.0% 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 34.7% of all households in the Forster 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 3.1% 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 Forster

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16.9% of adults in Forster hold a university qualification, including 12.1% with a bachelor degree and 2.8% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 75% of areas nationally. A further 31.4% hold a vocational qualification. 3 schools serve the area, with 1,411 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 963 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 shows lower levels of higher education, with university qualification rates at 16.9% compared to the NSW average of 32.2%. This gap presents an opportunity for targeted educational programs. Among those with university degrees, bachelor degrees are the most common at 12.1%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 2.8% and graduate diplomas at 2.0%. Vocational training is prominent, with 42.1% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications, consisting of advanced diplomas at 10.7% and certificates at 31.4%. A total of 23.1% of the local population is enrolled in formal education. This group includes 8.8% in primary school, 7.1% in secondary school, and 1.6% in tertiary study.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Forster SA2 have university qualifications?
16.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Forster SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Forster SA2 have no formal qualifications?
41.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Forster SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Forster SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The forster sa2 ranks in the 25th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Forster SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Forster SA2 are: Certificate (31.4%), Bachelor Degree (12.1%), Advanced Diploma (10.7%).
What proportion of the Forster SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
23.1% of the population in the Forster SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 8.8% in primary school, 7.1% in secondary school, 1.6% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Forster SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Forster SA2 is 963, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Forster SA2?
There are 3 schools within the Forster SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,411 students.
What types of schools are available in the Forster SA2?
The forster sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Forster

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Forster

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Public transport in Forster reaches 239 stops on 35 routes, timetabled for about 600 services a week. The typical home sits about 120 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.1 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 transport services in Forster include 239 active stops, consisting of bus services. These stops are served by 35 distinct routes, which accommodate 600 passenger trips per week. Transport access is high, with residents living an average of 118 meters from the nearest stop. The locality is primarily residential, resulting in outward commuting; private vehicles are the main transport mode at 92%, while 5% of residents walk. Vehicle ownership averages 1.1 cars per household, which is below the regional average. A low 11.2% of residents worked from home at the time of the 2021 Census, which may have been influenced by COVID-19 conditions.

Service frequency averages 85 daily trips across all routes, which translates to approximately 2 weekly trips per stop. The map details the 100 closest stops relative to the centre of the location.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Forster?
There are 239 public transport stops within the Forster SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Forster?
the Forster SA2 has 600 weekly trips across 35 routes, averaging 85 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Forster?
On average, residential properties are 118 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Forster

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55.7% of residents in Forster report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 86% of areas nationally. 9.9% need daily assistance with core activities, and 47.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Forster faces notable public health challenges, as indicated by mortality figures and the prevalence of chronic health conditions across both younger and older cohorts, combined with a low rate of private health insurance coverage at approximately 48% of the population (~7,162 people). This compares to 51.9% in Regional NSW and a national average of 55.7%. The most common chronic conditions in the locality are arthritis and mental health challenges, affecting 13.7% and 9.4% of residents, respectively. Meanwhile, 55.7% of the population reported no long-term health conditions, compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW.

The local working-age population experiences high rates of chronic health issues. Residents aged 65 and over make up 39.3% of the population (5,913 people), which is significantly higher than the 23.4% average across Regional NSW. Health outcomes for seniors are challenging, with national rankings for this demographic being higher than those of the general population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Forster SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 47.6% of people in the Forster 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 Forster SA2?
In the Forster SA2, 9.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Forster SA2?
7.6% of people in the Forster 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 Forster SA2?
Diabetes affects 5.2% of the the Forster 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 Forster SA2?
6.3% of people in the Forster SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Forster SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Forster SA2, 47.6% 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 Forster

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Forster is largely Australian-born, at 87.6% of residents, with 4.0% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (34.2%) and Australian (30.6%). 4.5% 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

Forster shows a lower level of cultural diversity compared to broader benchmarks, with 87.6% of the population born in Australia, 90.9% holding citizenship, and 96.0% speaking only English at home. The predominant religion is Christianity, representing 59.9% of the population, compared to 55.9% across Regional NSW. The most common ancestries reported in the area are English at 34.2%, Australian at 30.6%, and Irish at 8.9%. Some ethnic groups show higher relative representation than average, including Australian Aboriginal at 4.5% (compared to 4.6% regionally), Maltese at 0.5% (compared to 0.4%), and Scottish at 8.1% (compared to 8.0%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Forster SA2?
Forster was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.6% of its population born in Australia, 90.9% being citizens, and 96.0% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Forster SA2?
The main religion in Forster was found to be Christianity, which makes up 59.9% of people in Forster. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Forster SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Forster are English, comprising 34.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.5% of Forster (vs 4.6% regionally), Maltese at 0.5% (vs 0.4%) and Scottish at 8.1% (vs 8.0%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
12.4% of the the Forster SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Forster SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
4.0% of the population in the Forster SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Forster SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
4.5% of the the Forster SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Forster SA2?
90.9% of the the Forster SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Forster

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The median resident of Forster is 57, older than 98% of areas nationally. 15.4% 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 of 57 years in Forster is much higher than the Regional NSW average of 43 and the national median of 38. Compared to Regional NSW, Forster has a larger proportion of residents aged 65 - 74 (19.2%) and a smaller share of 25 - 34 year-olds (7.0%). The concentration of 65 - 74 year-olds is higher than the national figure of 9.4%. Post-2021 Census estimates indicate that the 75 to 84 age group has increased from 13.1% to 14.7% of the population, while the 55 to 64 group decreased from 14.5% to 13.1%.

Looking to 2041, demographic projections point to shifts in the age profile, with the 85+ cohort expected to grow by 496 people (62%) from 805 to 1,302, while the 55 to 64 and 15 to 24 cohorts are expected to decrease.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Forster SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Forster SA2 is 57 years.
How does the Forster SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 57 years, Forster is 14 years older than the Regional NSW average (43 years) and 19 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Forster SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Forster SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 19.2% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Forster SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Forster SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.0% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Forster SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.3% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (14.7% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.0% vs 11.4%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Forster SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Forster SA2 is 13.1%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Forster SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Forster SA2 is 39.3%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Forster

Data currency Refreshed

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

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

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 8 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) 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 — 575 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (14,709 at the 2021 Census → 15,047 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 (108011152). 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 Forster 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 Forster 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 Forster data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to 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