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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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ABS ERP | -- people | --
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Sales Activity
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Population
Kurri Kurri - Abermain lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends
Based on AreaSearch's analysis, Kurri Kurri - Abermain's population is around 23,175 as of Nov 2025. This reflects an increase of 2,544 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 20,631 people. The change is inferred from the estimated resident population of 22,814 from the ABS as of June 2024 and an additional 684 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 255 persons per square kilometer. Kurri Kurri - Abermain's growth of 12.3% since the 2021 census exceeded the non-metro area (5.1%) and the state, marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth was primarily driven by interstate migration contributing approximately 68.4% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For areas not covered, AreaSearch utilises NSW State Government's SA2 level projections, released in 2022 with 2021 as the base year. Growth rates by age group are applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Future population trends forecast a significant increase in the top quartile of national regional areas, with Kurri Kurri - Abermain expected to expand by 8,680 persons to 2041 based on latest annual ERP population numbers, reflecting a gain of 35.9% in total over the 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Kurri Kurri - Abermain was found to be higher than 90% of real estate markets across the country
Kurri Kurri - Abermain has recorded approximately 212 residential properties granted approval annually. Between Financial Year 2021 (FY21) and FY25, around 1,060 homes were approved, with an additional 55 approved in FY26 to date. On average, about 3.4 people moved to the area for each dwelling built over these five financial years.
This supply lagging demand suggests heightened buyer competition and pricing pressures. The average construction cost of new properties is around $226,000, which is below the regional average, indicating more affordable housing options. In FY26, commercial development approvals totalled $17.6 million, signifying steady commercial investment activity.
Compared to the Rest of NSW, Kurri Kurri - Abermain has similar development levels per person, maintaining market balance with the broader area. New building activity comprises 78.0% detached houses and 22.0% townhouses or apartments, preserving the area's low-density nature and attracting space-seeking buyers. With around 162 people per dwelling approval, Kurri Kurri - Abermain exhibits characteristics of a growth area. By 2041, it is projected to grow by approximately 8,319 residents, with building activity keeping pace with these growth projections despite potential buyer competition as the population increases.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Kurri Kurri - Abermain has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
The performance of an area can significantly influenced by changes in local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives. AreaSearch has identified a total of thirteen projects that are expected to impact the area. Notable among these are Weston Public Preschool, Hunter Power Project (Kurri Kurri Power Station), Kurri Kurri Lateral Pipeline (KKLP) and Storage Project, and Hunter Regional Plan 2041. The following list provides details on those projects deemed most relevant.
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INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Maitland Local Housing Strategy 2041
A comprehensive strategic planning framework adopted by Maitland City Council on 27 June 2023 and endorsed by the NSW Government on 9 September 2024. The strategy guides residential development and growth in the Maitland local government area through to 2041. It identifies areas for new housing, prioritizes infill development and housing diversity (including affordable housing) to meet the projected need for approximately 25,200 additional dwellings by 2041, and aligns infrastructure planning to support growth.
Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment
A $138 million hospital redevelopment featuring a new two-storey Acute Services Building. Construction officially commenced in June 2025. The new facility will include an expanded Emergency Department, operating theatres, day surgery spaces, two new inpatient wards (single and 2-bed rooms with ensuites), a new medical imaging service, a Central Sterilising Services Department (CSSD), and a modern pharmacy. The hospital will remain operational throughout the construction period, which is expected to be completed in late 2027, with the new facilities opening following operational commissioning in 2028.
Heddon Greta - Cliftleigh Corridor Structure Plan
The Structure Plan was adopted by Cessnock City Council in August 2022. It identifies and addresses current and future infrastructure and servicing needs, road network, connectivity, open space, and liveability improvements in the urban corridor between Kurri Kurri and Maitland, encompassing Heddon Greta and Cliftleigh. Implementation commenced in September 2022.
Hunter Power Project (Kurri Kurri Power Station)
Snowy Hydro is building a fast start open cycle gas power station at Kurri Kurri with two hydrogen ready turbines (initially up to 15 percent hydrogen blend). Initial capacity is 660 MW, with approvals up to 750 MW. Construction has progressed into testing and commissioning, including first fire of one turbine in July 2025 and initial test output to the grid. Gas supply infrastructure is in place; diesel is available as a backup fuel during commissioning and rare peak events.
Kurri Kurri Lateral Pipeline (KKLP) and Storage Project
The KKLP is a 21km gas transmission pipeline and 24km larger diameter serpentine pipeline that functions as a storage reservoir. It will connect the Hunter Power Project in Kurri Kurri, NSW, to the existing Sydney to Newcastle pipeline. The project is critical for energy security in the Hunter region. The total investment is approximately A$450 million.
The Loxford Estate
A large-scale residential development featuring 354 approved homesites across 2000 hectares, with 800 hectares designated as environmental conservation land. Award-winning Hunter-based property developers McCloy Group & Stevens Group are delivering this masterplanned community where contemporary living meets wholesome family lifestyle, featuring vibrant public art, playgrounds, and mature street trees.
Hunter Expressway (M15)
A 39.5 km controlled-access expressway linking the M1 Pacific Motorway near Seahampton/Cameron Park to the New England Highway near Branxton, bypassing Maitland and improving safety, connectivity and travel times across the Hunter region. Opened in March 2014 with an estimated cost of about AUD 1.7 billion.
Weston Commercial Centre Masterplan
Masterplan to revitalize the Weston commercial centre through public domain improvements, enhanced pedestrian and cyclist connectivity, traffic calming, park upgrades, street tree planting, and heritage preservation to encourage redevelopment and community activation.
Employment
The labour market performance in Kurri Kurri - Abermain lags significantly behind most other regions nationally
Kurri Kurri - Abermain has a balanced workforce with white and blue collar employment. Manufacturing and industrial sectors are strongly represented, with an unemployment rate of 5.3% as of September 2025.
There are 10,114 residents in work, while the unemployment rate is 1.4% higher than Rest of NSW's rate of 3.8%. Workforce participation stands at 59.0%, slightly above Rest of NSW's 56.4%. Employment is concentrated in health care & social assistance, retail trade, and construction. The area has a notable employment specialization in mining, with an employment share 2.8 times the regional level, while agriculture, forestry & fishing has limited presence at 1.2% compared to the regional average of 5.3%.
Between August 2024 and July 2025, labour force decreased by 2.3%, employment declined by 2.1%, leading to a fall in unemployment by 0.2 percentage points. In contrast, Rest of NSW saw employment fall by 0.5%, labour force contract by 0.1%, and unemployment rise by 0.4 percentage points. As of 25-Nov-25, NSW employment contracted by 0.03% (losing 2,260 jobs), with the state unemployment rate at 3.9%. National employment forecasts from May-25 suggest national employment will expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Kurri Kurri - Abermain's employment mix indicates local employment should increase by 6.0% over five years and 12.9% over ten years, assuming no changes in population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for financial year 2022 shows that Kurri Kurri - Abermain SA2 had an income below the national average. The median assessed income was $51,222 and the average income stood at $60,047. In contrast, Rest of NSW's figures were a median income of $49,459 and an average income of $62,998. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 12.61% since financial year 2022, current estimates for Kurri Kurri - Abermain would be approximately $57,681 (median) and $67,619 (average) as of September 2025. Census data reveals that household, family, and personal incomes in Kurri Kurri - Abermain rank modestly, between the 28th and 33rd percentiles. Income analysis shows that the $1,500 - 2,999 earnings band captures 34.3% of the community (7,949 individuals), aligning with the metropolitan region where this cohort likewise represents 29.9%. Housing affordability pressures are severe in Kurri Kurri - Abermain, with only 82.9% of income remaining, ranking at the 32nd percentile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Kurri Kurri - Abermain is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
In Kurri Kurri - Abermain, as per the latest Census, 91.1% of dwellings were houses, with the remaining 9.0% being semi-detached homes, apartments, or other types. This is similar to Non-Metro NSW's dwelling structure, which was also 91.1% houses and 8.9% other dwellings. Home ownership in Kurri Kurri - Abermain stood at 30.5%, compared to 32.4% in Non-Metro NSW. Mortgaged dwellings made up 40.1% of the area, with rented properties accounting for 29.4%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,603, lower than Non-Metro NSW's average of $1,733. The median weekly rent in Kurri Kurri - Abermain was $345, slightly higher than Non-Metro NSW's figure of $340. Nationally, mortgage repayments were higher at $1,863, and rents averaged $375 per week.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Kurri Kurri - Abermain has a typical household mix, with a fairly typical median household size
Family households comprise 73.0% of all households, including 29.9% couples with children, 25.1% couples without children, and 16.8% single parent families. Non-family households account for the remaining 27.0%, with lone person households at 24.3% and group households making up 2.6% of the total. The median household size is 2.6 people, matching the average for the Rest of NSW.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Kurri Kurri - Abermain faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally
The area's university qualification rate is 9.0%, significantly lower than the NSW average of 32.2%. Bachelor degrees are most common at 6.9%, followed by graduate diplomas (1.1%) and postgraduate qualifications (1.0%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 44.2% of residents aged 15+ holding them - advanced diplomas at 7.9% and certificates at 36.3%. Educational participation is high, with 28.3% of residents currently enrolled in formal education, including 10.9% in primary, 7.4% in secondary, and 2.4% in tertiary education.
Educational participation is notably high, with 28.3% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.9% in primary education, 7.4% in secondary education, and 2.4% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
The transport analysis indicates 172 active stops operating within Kurri Kurri - Abermain. These stops offer a mix of bus services, with 50 individual routes collectively providing 699 weekly passenger trips. The report rates transport accessibility as good, with residents typically located 229 meters from the nearest stop.
Service frequency averages 99 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 4 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Kurri Kurri - Abermain is well below average with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts
Kurri Kurri - Abermain faces significant health challenges, as indicated by health data. Both younger and older age groups are affected by various health conditions. The area has a relatively low rate of private health cover, approximately 50% (around 11,471 people), compared to the Rest of NSW's 51.9%.
Nationally, this figure stands at 55.3%. The most prevalent medical conditions are mental health issues and asthma, impacting 12.2% and 9.9% of residents respectively. Conversely, 59.9% reported having no medical ailments, compared to the Rest of NSW's 62.6%. As of a certain date (exact date not specified), 14.8% of Kurri Kurri - Abermain's population is aged 65 and over (3,425 people). This figure is lower than the Rest of NSW's 16.9%. The health outcomes among seniors generally align with the overall population's health profile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
The latest Census data sees Kurri Kurri - Abermain placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics
Kurri Kurri - Abermain had a cultural diversity index below average, with 93.4% of its population being Australian citizens, 94.3% born in Australia, and 97.4% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the predominant religion, accounting for 51.2% of people in Kurri Kurri - Abermain, compared to 55.7% across Rest of NSW. The top three ancestry groups were Australian (34.3%), English (31.8%), and Scottish (8.1%).
Notably, Australian Aboriginal representation was higher at 7.8%, Welsh was 0.6%, and Macedonian was 0.1%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Kurri Kurri - Abermain's population is younger than the national pattern
Kurri Kurri - Abermain has a median age of 34, which is lower than the Rest of NSW figure of 43 and Australia's median age of 38. The 25-34 cohort makes up 17.8% of the population in Kurri Kurri - Abermain, compared to the Rest of NSW average, while those aged 65-74 are under-represented at 8.9%. Between 2021 and the present, the 25-34 age group has increased from 15.7% to 17.8%, and the 35-44 cohort has risen from 11.9% to 13.6%. Conversely, the 45-54 cohort has declined from 11.7% to 10.3%, and the 55-64 group has dropped from 11.5% to 10.3%. By 2041, demographic modeling suggests that Kurri Kurri - Abermain's age profile will change significantly. The 25-34 age cohort is projected to expand by 1,953 people (47%), growing from 4,127 to 6,081.