Lithgow Surrounds

SA2

Rest of NSW / Lithgow - Mudgee

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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 Lithgow Surrounds

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The median house price in Lithgow Surrounds is $630k, with units at $455k. House values have moved 3.9% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Lithgow Surrounds

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Lithgow Surrounds has an estimated 8,601 residents, up from 8,448 at the 2021 Census — a change of 153 people, or 1.8%. 226 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Fewer than ten people live on each square kilometre, across a boundary that takes in surrounding rural land. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to evaluation by AreaSearch, the resident count across Lithgow Surrounds stands at approximately 8,601 as of Aug 2026. Compared to the 2021 Census figure of 8,448 people, this represents an addition of 153 people (1.8%). This net change is derived from the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population benchmark of 8,544 alongside 226 validated new addresses recorded since the Census date. With a density of 3.4 persons per square kilometer, the locality offers substantial space per resident. The 1.8% expansion recorded since the census tracks closely with the broader SA3 figure of 1.9%, trailing by just 0.1 percentage points to show solid local momentum.

Net overseas migration served as the core driver of local expansion, accounting for roughly 80.4% of total population additions in recent times. SA2 projections published in 2024 by ABS/Geoscience Australia utilizing a 2022 baseline are applied by AreaSearch, with gaps supplemented by the NSW State Government SA2 series released in 2022 using 2021 as a base year. Age-specific trajectory rates derived from these datasets are extended across all localities spanning 2032 to 2041. Based on expected demographic patterns, population expansion is anticipated to track above the national non-metropolitan median, with Lithgow Surrounds forecast to gain 1,042 persons to 2041 relative to current annual ERP benchmarks, representing an aggregate gain of 11.4% across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Total population for the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,601 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,544 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 changed since 2021?
The lithgow surrounds sa2 has added approximately 153 people and shown a 1.81% increase from the 8,448 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The population density in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is estimated at 3 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.2% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Population growth in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (80.4%), Natural increase (19.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 80.4% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Lithgow Surrounds

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167 new dwellings have been approved in Lithgow Surrounds over the past five years, an average of 33 a year. That is 3.9 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 33 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 91% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Over the past 5 financial years, residential building consents in Lithgow Surrounds have averaged approximately 33 dwellings annually, yielding 167 homes in aggregate. Net population intake averaged merely 0.5 people annually for every residential unit constructed across the past 5 financial years (between FY-22 and FY-26), showing that dwelling supply is keeping pace with or exceeding demand, widening housing availability, supporting prospective population expansion beyond current forecasts, and yielding new builds with an average construction value of $491,000. Additionally, commercial development approvals reached $5.4 million this financial year, underscoring the distinctly residential focus of the local property market.

Per capita residential construction in Lithgow Surrounds trails the Rest of NSW benchmark by 18.0%, placing the locality in the 41st percentile across the nation, a dynamic that constrains supply while bolstering demand for existing housing stock. Approved residential projects comprise 91.0% detached houses and 9.0% townhouses or apartments, preserving the traditional low-density neighborhood structure oriented toward family properties with generous space. A ratio of 367 people per building approval highlights a subdued, low-volume residential development setting. According to the latest quarterly AreaSearch projections, Lithgow Surrounds is anticipated to expand by 985 residents by 2041. While ongoing residential development currently matches expected growth trajectories, prospective buyers may encounter increased market competition as the local population base widens.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 area has seen 47 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Lithgow Surrounds SA2's current population of 8,601 has been supported by 33 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has seen 0.39 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.56 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 367 people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 985 people by 2041, around 493 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 33, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is expected to grow by 985 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 493 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has grown by approximately 977 people, while 167 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.9 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 33 approvals per year and a population of 8,601, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 985 people by 2041, around 493 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Lithgow Surrounds

Development applications around Lithgow Surrounds

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 Lithgow Surrounds

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AreaSearch tracks 9 current infrastructure and development projects inside Lithgow Surrounds, worth an estimated $3.08 billion. A further 41 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $8.39 billion. 10 are already under construction and 20 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, energy and transport & logistics. 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

Infrastructure upgrades, major works, and strategic planning initiatives play a fundamental role in shaping an area's trajectory. AreaSearch has identified 30 key projects positioned to influence the district, including the Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System, the Great Western Battery, the Former Wallerawang Power Station Redevelopment, and Sidey Place, Wallerawang, with the most critical works outlined below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 include: Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (Approved); Great Western Battery (Approved); Former Wallerawang Power Station Redevelopment (Planning); Sidey Place, Wallerawang (Construction); and Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $4.1 billion in projects that will impact the extended area.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Lithgow Surrounds SA2 shows moderate infrastructure development relative to national averages, with opportunities for future growth and investment.
Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a utility-scale project located on 20 hectares of the decommissioned Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow in Central West NSW. Shell Energy acquired development rights from Greenspot in early 2023 and is progressing a modification application (MOD 1) to the existing State Significant Development approval to increase capacity from 500MW/1,000MWh to 600MW/1,800MWh and reconfigure the site layout. The modification is currently at the More Information Required stage with the NSW Planning Portal.The project will be developed in two stages of up to 300MW each and connects to the adjacent 330kV TransGrid Wallerawang Substation. A Final Investment Decision (FID) is pending completion of grid connection approvals. Construction is expected to take approximately 20 months and create up to 100 peak jobs.

Energy

Former Wallerawang Power Station Redevelopment
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2036
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 620-hectare transformation of the former Wallerawang Power Station into a multi-use precinct. The masterplan includes 1,260 dwellings, employment zones for 2,500 jobs, a gigawatt-scale data centre campus, and the Wallerawang 9 Battery (600MW/1,975MWh). The project retains iconic infrastructure like the Unit 8 Cooling Tower and leverages 4,300ML water capacity from Lake Wallace. As of May 2026, the project is under a State-assessed rezoning pathway with the NSW Department of Planning, following endorsement in late 2025.The co-located Wallerawang 9 Battery received capacity increase approval in March 2026.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Great Western Battery
Category: Energy
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Great Western Battery is a 330 MW / 3,500 MWh grid-scale battery energy storage system by Neoen located in the Lithgow region of NSW, north of Wallerawang. It will provide dispatchable energy and grid stabilization to support the state's transition to renewable energy and is expected to be one of the largest in Australia.

Energy

Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System
Category: Energy
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

EnergyAustralia's Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System is a 500 MW / 2000 MWh grid-scale battery adjacent to the Mt Piper Power Station near Lithgow. The project received NSW planning approval in November 2024. A final investment decision is targeted for mid-2026, with construction planned for 2027 to 2028, and operational commencement expected in 2029. It will enhance grid stability and complement renewable generation.

Energy

Sidey Place, Wallerawang
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

Sidey Place is a strata community of 12 new 2 and 3-bedroom homes in duplex arrangements, developed by Kirana Property. Located in the newer part of Wallerawang, it aims to offer an affordable housing option for the Lithgow area, with premium finishes, large open landscaped spaces, and private patios and courtyards.

Residential Development

The Foundations Portland
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Foundations Portland is a landmark adaptive reuse and regeneration project transforming the heritage-listed Portland Cement Works into a regional cultural and residential hub. The 86-hectare masterplanned site features the iconic Guido van Helten silo murals, artisan retail, and event spaces. The project includes the restoration of heritage cottages on Williwa Street and the development of approximately 350 residential lots. This revitalized precinct offers a blend of industrial history and natural beauty, featuring limestone lakes for recreation and spaces for galleries, museums, and boutique hospitality operators.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project
Category: Energy
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

This project involves the construction and operation of approximately 8 km of new 330 kV transmission line between the Mount Piper and Wallerawang 330 kV substations. The aim is to strengthen and reinforce the grid in the Central Tablelands region, ensuring reliable transmission of power from the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWOREZ) to consumers. The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is expected to be on public exhibition in late August 2025.

Energy

Mount Lambie Wind Farm
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 200 MW wind generation project with up to 20 turbines and a 100 MW / 600 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), capable of powering approximately 115,000 homes annually. Located near the retired Wallerawang and operating Mt Piper power stations in the Lithgow City Council area, the project sits at elevations of 800-1,300 metres on the Great Dividing Range. The project is a State Significant Development (SSD-86097208) under NSW planning law and is also a controlled action under the EPBC Act (2025/10345).SEARs have been issued and the project is now in the Environmental Impact Statement preparation phase. Expected to create up to 150 construction jobs and 6-8 ongoing roles, with a projected operational life of 30+ years. Target operation from 2029 or 2030.

Energy

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Lithgow Surrounds

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4,412 residents of Lithgow Surrounds are employed, from a labour force of 4,552. Unemployment sits at 3.1%, with participation at 62.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.7% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 7,680, about 89% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. 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 labor market in Lithgow Surrounds exhibits an even balance between blue-collar and white-collar roles, underpinned by robust industrial and manufacturing sectors alongside a low jobless rate of 3.1%. As of March 2026, employed residents total 4,412, with the unemployment rate tracking 1.0% beneath the 4.1% recorded for Regional NSW, and overall labor force participation broadly in line with the wider regional benchmark of 60.6%. Census findings indicated that 18.3% of workers operated from home, though this figure was influenced by Covid-19 restrictions. The primary industry sectors providing resident employment are health care & social assistance, public administration & safety, and construction.

Mining represents a prominent area of local specialization, generating an employment concentration 3.1 times higher than the broader region. Conversely, health care & social assistance accounts for only 11.8% of the local workforce, trailing the 16.9% mark across Regional NSW. A comparison between Census working figures and the resident population highlights a relatively constrained local employment base. Analysis of SALM and ABS data by AreaSearch indicates that during the year to March 2026, the labour force shrank by 1.2% and employment dropped by 2.1%, which led to an increase in unemployment of 0.9 percentage points. In contrast, Regional NSW experienced a 0.9% decline in employment, a 0.4% contraction in the labour force, and a 0.5 percentage point rise in unemployment. Future demand trends within Lithgow Surrounds may be better understood through Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts published for Mar-26. These forecasts span five and ten year horizons and have been overlaid onto the local employment structure to project growth trajectories. The national outlook anticipates a 6.6% expansion in employment over five years and a 13.7% expansion over ten years, though sectoral growth varies considerably. When these sectoral rates are applied to the employment composition of Lithgow Surrounds, the area is projected to see a 5.7% growth in employment over five years and a 12.4% growth over ten years, keeping in mind this is a basic weighting exercise for illustration and excludes localized population forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
As of March 2026, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has approximately 4,412 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.1%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.1% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 stands at 3.1%, which is 1.0 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The employment landscape in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (11.8% of employment), public administration & safety (9.8%), and construction (9.2%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 30.8% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 62.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's employment market?
The lithgow surrounds sa2 shows notable specialization in mining, which employs 7.7% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.1, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.7% over the next five years and 12.4% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare nationally?
The lithgow surrounds sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 3.1% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.4% growth, ranking 7.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 26.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (11.8%), education & training (7.9%), and professional & technical (3.8%). With projected employment growth of 5.7% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Lithgow Surrounds

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Median household income in Lithgow Surrounds is $1,393 a week (about $72,000 a year), with median personal income at $671 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $53,147 a year against an average of $64,975. 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

ATO taxpayer records for financial year 2023 compiled by AreaSearch indicate that the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 records a median individual taxable income of $53,147 and an average of $64,975, sitting below national averages and comparing to $52,390 (median) and $65,215 (average) across Regional NSW. Factoring in cumulative Wage Price Index gains of 10.32% since financial year 2023 yields updated estimates of approximately $58,632 for median income and $71,680 for average income as of March 2026. Based on the 2021 Census, personal, family, and household earnings within Lithgow Surrounds place modestly between the 22nd and 28th percentiles.

In terms of earnings distribution, the largest cohort includes 29.3% of residents (2,520 people) within the $1,500 - 2,999 band, matching Regional NSW where this group accounts for 29.9%. Local housing costs remain manageable with residents retaining 87.8% of earnings, although disposable income ranks below average in the 33rd percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $58,632. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $53,147.
What is the average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $71,680. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $64,975.
How does the median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $58,632 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $53,147 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $71,680 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $64,975 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.3% / 2,520 persons) of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.3% 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,393/wk.
What is the median family income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,862/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $671/wk.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $53,147 while the average income stands at $64,975. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $52,390 and an average income of $65,215. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $58,632 (median) and $71,680 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $5,300 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The lithgow surrounds sa2's disposable income is $5,300 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Lithgow Surrounds

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Lithgow Surrounds had 3,169 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 97% detached houses and 0% apartments. 37% are owned with a mortgage, 15% rented and 48% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $270 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,517 a month. Rent absorbs 19.4% of household income here and mortgage repayments 25.1%. 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 composition in Lithgow Surrounds consisted of 97.1% separate houses and 2.9% other dwellings (incorporating apartments, semi-detached properties, and alternative formats), contrasting with Regional NSW where separate houses represented 82.6% and other dwellings accounted for 17.4%. Outright home ownership was significantly higher in Lithgow Surrounds at 47.9%, with remaining properties held under a mortgage (36.7%) or occupied as rentals (15.4%). Median monthly mortgage costs stood at $1,517, substantially lower than the Regional NSW figure of $1,733, while median weekly rent was $270 versus $330 regionally.

On a national scale, mortgage commitments in Lithgow Surrounds sit well below the Australian average of $1,863, and weekly rents are markedly lower than the nationwide figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 47.9% of homes are owned outright, 36.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 15.4% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 97.1% of dwellings in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 0.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 stands at 47.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $270, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 12.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 64.3% are $150-349/week, 22.6% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.7% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $736, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.4% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 19.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 consists of 97.1% detached houses, 1.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.1% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $737. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,517/month, and renters paying $1,169/month.
How affordable is housing in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Lithgow Surrounds consumes approximately 12.2% of median household income ($6,032 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Recent development applications in Lithgow Surrounds show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 3% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 97% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Lithgow Surrounds

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Lithgow Surrounds counted 3,169 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.4 people each. 27% are couples with children, against 32% couples without children. 27% 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 prevailing living arrangement at 70.8% of all residences, consisting of couples without children (32.4%), couples with children (27.1%), and single parent families (10.4%). Non-family living situations account for the other 29.2%, made up of lone person households at 27.4% and group shared households at 1.8%. The average household size stands at 2.4 people, perfectly matching the Regional NSW standard.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 had 3,169 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.8% to an estimated 3,226 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Lithgow Surrounds 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 70.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (27.4%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 2,243 family households, 27.1% are couples with children, 32.4% 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 48.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.2% 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 27.4% of all households in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, similar to the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.8% 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 Lithgow Surrounds

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15.7% of adults in Lithgow Surrounds hold a university qualification, including 10.7% with a bachelor degree and 3.1% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 78% of areas nationally. A further 34.5% hold a vocational qualification. 8 schools serve the area, with 492 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 938 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

Tertiary qualification levels present an educational hurdle for the area, with 15.7% of residents holding university degrees compared to the NSW average of 32.2%, highlighting a key focus area for local educational strategies. Bachelor degrees represent the largest tertiary category at 10.7%, followed by postgraduate credentials (3.1%) and graduate diplomas (1.9%). Vocational and technical training is widely represented, with 44.6% of residents aged 15+ possessing vocational qualifications, comprising certificates (34.5%) and advanced diplomas (10.1%). Formal study engagement is substantial throughout the community, with 27.7% of the population enrolled in an educational course.

This proportion includes 10.5% attending primary education, 8.4% undertaking secondary education, and 2.6% engaged in tertiary studies.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have university qualifications?
15.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have no formal qualifications?
39.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The lithgow surrounds sa2 ranks in the 22th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are: Certificate (34.5%), Bachelor Degree (10.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.1%).
What proportion of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
27.7% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 10.5% in primary school, 8.4% in secondary school, 2.6% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 938, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
There are 8 schools within the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 492 students.
What types of schools are available in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The lithgow surrounds sa2 includes 7 primary schools, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Lithgow Surrounds

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Explore the surrounds Search this catchment for any place type — schools, cafés, supermarkets, transport — and drop your own custom points on the map.
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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Lithgow Surrounds

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Public transport in Lithgow Surrounds reaches 323 stops on 63 routes, timetabled for about 1,400 services a week. The typical home sits about 1,250 m from its nearest stop. Trains carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.9 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

Local public transit infrastructure across Lithgow Surrounds includes 323 operational transport stops covering both buses and trains. A network of 63 discrete routes serves these locations, providing a combined 1,447 weekly passenger trips. Transit access is comparatively low, with an average distance of 1248 meters to the closest stop. Given the area's predominantly residential profile, the vast majority of workers travel outward, with private vehicles serving as the primary transport mode at 95%. Vehicle ownership sits above regional benchmarks at 1.9 per dwelling. In addition, 18.3% of the workforce worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which coincided with COVID-19 settings.

Across all transit lines, trip frequencies average 206 trips per day, translating to roughly 4 weekly trips for each transport stop. The 100 nearest stops from the geographic central point are detailed in the associated map.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Lithgow Surrounds?
There are 323 public transport stops within the Lithgow Surrounds SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Lithgow Surrounds?
the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has 1,447 weekly trips across 63 routes, averaging 206 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Lithgow Surrounds?
On average, residential properties are 1248 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Lithgow Surrounds

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62.9% of residents in Lithgow Surrounds report no long-term health condition. 6.3% need daily assistance with core activities, and 51.2% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.5 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Analyses by AreaSearch regarding mortality figures and chronic ailment prevalence indicate notable health hurdles within Lithgow Surrounds, with common medical issues prevalent across older and younger residents alike, while private health insurance adoption is modest at roughly 51% of residents (~4,403 people). The primary medical conditions diagnosed in the community are arthritis and mental health issues, affecting 11.5 and 8.1% of residents, respectively, while 62.9% of the population reported no long-term ailments compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW. Chronic conditions present prominent difficulties for working-age cohorts. Residents aged 65 and over comprise 26.1% of the local population (2,242 people), surpassing the 23.3% level observed across Regional NSW, with chronic condition rates ranking even higher relative to national benchmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 51.2% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 6.3% 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
7.9% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Diabetes affects 5.4% of the the Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
4.3% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 51.2% 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 Lithgow Surrounds

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Lithgow Surrounds is largely Australian-born, at 89.7% of residents, with 3.8% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (32.3%) and Australian (30.6%). 4.7% 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

Cultural diversity measures place Lithgow Surrounds below wider averages, with Australian-born residents accounting for 89.7% of the community, 89.3% holding citizenship, and 96.2% using solely English in the home. Christianity constitutes the leading religious affiliation, claimed by 57.6% of the population in Lithgow Surrounds compared to 55.9% in Regional NSW. Examining parental country of birth, the three most common ancestries in Lithgow Surrounds are English at 32.3%, Australian at 30.6%, and Irish at 9.3%. Divergences also appear across other cultural heritages: Australian Aboriginal representation is higher at 4.7% (compared to 4.6% across the region), Scottish ancestry comprises 8.5% (against 8.0% regionally), and Welsh background accounts for 0.6% (versus 0.5%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
Lithgow Surrounds was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.3% of its population being citizens, 89.7% born in Australia, and 96.2% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
The main religion in Lithgow Surrounds was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.6% of people in Lithgow Surrounds. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lithgow Surrounds are English, comprising 32.3% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Lithgow Surrounds (vs 4.6% regionally), Scottish at 8.5% (vs 8.0%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
10.3% of the the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
3.8% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
4.7% of the the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
89.3% of the the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Lithgow Surrounds

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The median resident of Lithgow Surrounds is 47, older than 84% of areas nationally. 20.8% 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 age distribution of Lithgow Surrounds reflects an older, established family demographic. Mature adults and pre-retirees aged 45 - 64 make up 27.9% of the community as at August 2026, relative to 23.8% across Regional NSW, while young to middle-aged adults aged 25 - 44 represent only 20.0%, compared to 23.5% regionally. As at August 2026, the estimated median age is 47, matching the 2021 Census figure and sitting 4 years higher than the Regional NSW median of 43 at that Census, while the Australia Census median stood at 38.

Retirees and senior age groups (65+) have increased their population share since the Census from 23.2% to an estimated 26.1%. This shift is largely attributable to one cohort aging in place rather than new arrivals: children aged 5 to 14 declined from 12.3% to an estimated 10.1%, while youth aged 15 to 24 grew from 10.1% to 11.9%. Long-term projections to 2041 indicate that the largest numerical growth will occur in retiree and senior cohorts, expanding by 613 residents (27%) to 2,855, whereas cohorts of children and young adults are forecast to decline.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
How does the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Lithgow Surrounds is 4 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 9 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 16.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.9% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.8% vs 2.9%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.0% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.1% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Lithgow Surrounds

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 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) Aug 2026 last month 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 Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jun 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 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 Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jun 2026 3 months ago all 9 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 Jun 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 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 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago 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 — 226 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (8,448 at the 2021 Census → 8,601 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 Aug 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 (103031071). 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 Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds 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 Lithgow Surrounds 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 (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (Jun 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 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.

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