Area profile · Rest of NSW
Port Kembla - Warrawong has an estimated 9,815 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 12 projects tracked in Port Kembla - Warrawong.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Positioned 75 kilometres south-southwest from Sydney CBD, the Port Kembla - Warrawong Statistical Area (Lv2) presents a distinctive coastal setting defined by picturesque coastline, scenic beaches, and idyllic natural surroundings that foster a relaxed atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Complemented by a rich industrial heritage, an active arts scene, shopping hubs, sporting infrastructure, and outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, the area sustains a balanced lifestyle. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates the Port Kembla - Warrawong population to be approximately 9,815, indicating minimal change from the 9,740 people documented at the 2021 Census, a trend supported by latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and validated new addresses added since the Census.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 75 kilometres south-southwest from Sydney CBD, the Port Kembla - Warrawong Statistical Area (Lv2) presents a distinctive coastal setting defined by picturesque coastline, scenic beaches, and idyllic natural surroundings that foster a relaxed atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Complemented by a rich industrial heritage, an active arts scene, shopping hubs, sporting infrastructure, and outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, the area sustains a balanced lifestyle. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates the Port Kembla - Warrawong population to be approximately 9,815, indicating minimal change from the 9,740 people documented at the 2021 Census, a trend supported by latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and validated new addresses added since the Census.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,145 in 2001 and 9,681 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,815 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 13.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.1%.
Port Kembla - Warrawong ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for amenities and the 72nd for cultural diversity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Port Kembla - Warrawong is $524 a week, up 4.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 10% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.9%.
10% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $390 in 2017, $604 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $262 in 2017, $420 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63 Vermont Road, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $985,000 | 29 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 71 Third Avenue, Port Kembla NSW 2505 | $1,382,000 | 22 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 22 Gallipoli Street, Port Kembla NSW 2505 | $3,100,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Jackson Avenue, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $380,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Bruce Road, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $700,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Montgomery Avenue, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $837,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 77 Donaldson Street, Port Kembla NSW 2505 | $1,000,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 63 Jane Avenue, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $925,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Sixth Avenue, Port Kembla NSW 2505 | $900,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Turpin Avenue, Warrawong NSW 2502 | $870,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 44 residential sales recorded since 21 May 2026 (the latest settled 29 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 44, houses and units together, was $1,020,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $524 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $985k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $650k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,020,000 | Median of the 44 most recent residential sales, settled 21 May 2026 to 29 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $604 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +11.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $420 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Dapto - Port Kembla | $663 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Dapto - Port Kembla, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Illawarra | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Illawarra, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 149 tracked applications: 74 approved, 27 under assessment, 48 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Port Kembla - Warrawong, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 12 projects in Port Kembla - Warrawong (2 under construction) and 118 more in the surrounding area.
A landmark three-storey community hub in Warrawong featuring a modern library, flexible meeting and function rooms, and dedicated spaces for community organisations. The project includes a new town square with landscaped public spaces, a stepped auditorium for performances, and a sensory room.
Medium density residential redevelopment of the 2.195-hectare former Port Kembla Public School site (Lot 1 DP 811699) on Military Road, Port Kembla, owned by Illawarra developer Ostoja Vujic. Wollongong LEP 2009 Amendment No.
New purpose-built community health centre being constructed on the north-east corner of the former Port Kembla Hospital site in Warrawong, as part of the $828.9 million New Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project.
A 1.1 billion dollar urban renewal project transforming Warrawong Plaza into a high-density mixed-use precinct. Following the site's rezoning in 2024 via the State Assessed Planning Proposal (SAPP) pathway, the development will deliver 1,300 new dwellings across 10-12 towers reaching up to 22 storeys (75m).
Demolition of existing buildings and construction of a 10-unit transitional group home operated by Salvation Army Housing, providing purpose-built temporary accommodation for women and children escaping domestic violence. The development includes administrative facilities, consultation rooms, and communal open space with landscaped setbacks.
The Illawarra Offshore Wind Zone is a declared 1,022 square kilometre area in Pacific Ocean waters, at least 20 km offshore between Wombarra and Kiama, New South Wales. Declared on 15 June 2024 as Australia's fourth offshore wind zone, it has potential capacity of around 2.9 GW, and water depths mean only floating turbines are considered viable.
NSW Land and Housing Corporation (Homes NSW) project to consolidate 12, 14 and 16 Stuart Road and build a 2 storey residential flat building with 16 social housing dwellings. The Part 5 activity was approved on 23 June 2025 under the Housing SEPP. Key scope includes tree removal, landscaping and on site parking.
Council approved subdivision of Lot 52 to create 17 torrens title lots with riparian management works, a road extension from Jackson Avenue to Little Place, and a right of carriageway servicing four lots. This replaces earlier media references to 18 lots.
A 10,735 sqm large format retail centre on a 24,300 sqm site, featuring national tenants including Beacon Lighting, Super Cheap Auto, Pillow Talk, JB Hi-Fi, Trek, Autobarn, Road Tech Marine, and Amart Furniture.
A new co-located public preschool is under construction at Lake Heights Public School as part of the NSW Government's 100 public preschools program. The facility will include 2 preschool rooms, outdoor play areas, administration space, staff facilities and amenities, providing places for up to 40 children per day.
A development of 30 studio apartments for social housing residents aged 55 and over. The project involved the redevelopment of the historic Steelworks Hotel.
A complete 11 million dollar transformation and expansion of the existing Berkeley shopping precinct into Berkeley Square. The project reimagines the 5,000+ sqm site, adding a second level to accommodate a new gym and a 121-place childcare centre.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 83 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 23, 2027 33, 2028 9, 2029 7, 2030 5, 2031 1, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2, 2036 1. 26 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 149 substantial development applications lodged in and around Port Kembla - Warrawong over the past 5 years, 93 in the last 12 months; 27 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 10, 2023 7, 2024 19, 2025 19, 2026 (to Nov) 92.
Key application 180-188 Shellharbour Road, Port Kembla Industrial | $29m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 149 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 93 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 26 | ABS building approvals | 38th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 74 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 include: Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library (Construction); Warrawong Community Health Centre (Construction); Former Port Kembla Public School Site Residential Development (Approved); Warrawong Plaza Redevelopment (Approved); and Salvation Army Housing - Warrawong Group Home (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Energy, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Port Kembla - Warrawong, placing the area among the bottom 16% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 area has seen 40 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2's current population of 9,815 has been supported by 26 approvals on average over recent years.
The Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has seen 2.6 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 487 people in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 26, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has seen 129 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Port Kembla - Warrawong has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,815 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,408 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 9,740 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 75 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 6.97 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 was estimated to be approximately 9,815 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 9,681 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The port kembla - warrawong sa2 has added approximately 75 people and shown a 0.77% increase from the 9,740 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is estimated at 1,408 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (81.1%), Natural increase (18.9%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 81.1% of overall population gains.
Port Kembla - Warrawong's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Port Kembla - Warrawong is comparable to the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) yet 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 9.9% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.9% of the population in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.5% of the population in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 78% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,527 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 31st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $65,797 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,108 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $551 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,466 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 38.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is approximately $58,006. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,527.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is approximately $69,995. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $65,797.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is approximately $58,006 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,527 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is approximately $69,995 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,797 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2's households (~27.1% / 1,027 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.1% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $1,108/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $1,466/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $551/wk.
The Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $54,527 and an average of $65,797 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is below the national average, contrasting with Regional NSW's median income of $55,733 and average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,006 (median) and $69,995 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $3,865 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The port kembla - warrawong sa2's disposable income is $3,865 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Port Kembla - Warrawong face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 18.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 52.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,355 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,516 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,089 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has approximately 3,355 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 18.0%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 stands at 18.0%, which is 13.8 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%.
The employment landscape in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.6% of employment), retail trade (11.0%), and construction (9.7%). Other significant employers include education & training and manufacturing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is 52.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The port kembla - warrawong sa2 shows notable specialisation in administrative & support, which employs 5.4% of the local workforce compared to 3.3% across Regional NSW. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The port kembla - warrawong 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 2.2% growth, ranking 17th out of 37 regions nationally.
Port Kembla - Warrawong faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.5% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 49.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
15.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
49.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The port kembla - warrawong sa2 ranks in the 17th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 are: Certificate (26.5%), Bachelor Degree (10.3%), Advanced Diploma (8.7%).
27.4% of the population in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.8% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 3.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is 960, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,905 students.
The port kembla - warrawong sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Port Kembla - Warrawong features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.7% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.8% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,791 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,820 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 had 3,791 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 3,820 households today.
The average household size in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 63.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.7%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,403 family households, couples with children account for 23.9% of all households, couples without children at home 21.6%, and single parent families 16.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.7% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.4% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 36.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 39.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 33.7% of all households in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, higher than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.7% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Port Kembla - Warrawong was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 31.4% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 68.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 69.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Port Kembla - Warrawong was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 30.5% of its population born overseas and 31.4% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Port Kembla - Warrawong was found to be Christianity, which makes up 61.5% of people in Port Kembla - Warrawong. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Port Kembla - Warrawong are Australian, comprising 20.8% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional NSW's 30.0%, English, comprising 20.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional NSW's 30.5%, and Other, comprising 11.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 4.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 10.2% of Port Kembla - Warrawong (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), Spanish at 1.2% (vs 0.3%) and Serbian at 1.0% (vs 0.2%).
30.5% of the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
31.4% of the population in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.7% of the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
86.1% of the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Port Kembla - Warrawong is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 41.8% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 36.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 71.6% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,820 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $300 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 37.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, 36.7% of homes are owned outright, 21.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 41.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 71.6% of dwellings in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 are houses.
In the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, 17.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 10.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 stands at 36.7%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $1,820, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is $936, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 37.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 37.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 consists of 71.6% detached houses, 10.4% semi-detached dwellings, 17.7% apartments, and 0.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Port Kembla - Warrawong consumes approximately 19.5% of median household income ($4,798 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Port Kembla - Warrawong show attached dwellings contributing 25% of approvals compared to 28% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 75% of applications versus 72% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Port Kembla - Warrawong is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 29th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
Around 50.0% of people in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, 11.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.3% of people in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.1% of the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.5% of people in the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2, 50.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 59 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 59th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 98 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 984 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 35th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 99 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 36 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 20.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 98 public transport stops within the Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2.
The Port Kembla - Warrawong SA2 has 984 weekly trips across 36 routes, averaging 140 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 146 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 406 m away and the nearest school 474 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 98 stops nearby, 984 weekly trips, access rating 59 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 99 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 99th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 406 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 474 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 628 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 659 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 687 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 828 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 933 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 6.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 6 long day care centres with 200 places in Port Kembla - Warrawong, about 3.4 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Port Kembla - Warrawong is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Port Kembla - Warrawong.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Port Kembla - Warrawong, placing the area among the bottom 16% of areas assessed nationally.
Port Kembla - Warrawong ranks in the 58th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Port Kembla - Warrawong's resilient property market has recorded 145 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 86% residential, 13% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
Port Kembla - Warrawong has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Port Kembla - Warrawong's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 78% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Port Kembla - Warrawong face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
Port Kembla - Warrawong faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Port Kembla - Warrawong features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Port Kembla - Warrawong was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Port Kembla - Warrawong is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Port Kembla - Warrawong is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Port Kembla - Warrawong has an estimated 9,815 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 12 projects tracked in Port Kembla - Warrawong.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Port Kembla - Warrawong.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Nov 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (107011546). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Nov 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Port Kembla - Warrawong from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Port Kembla - Warrawong with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
