Punchbowl

SA2

Greater Sydney / Canterbury

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 119021366 How we calculate this
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Punchbowl

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The median house price in Punchbowl is $1.47m, with units at $575k. House values have moved 6.4% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Punchbowl

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Punchbowl has an estimated 22,549 residents, up from 21,544 at the 2021 Census — a change of 1,005 people, or 4.7%. 158 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. That puts 4,295 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to investigations by AreaSearch, the population of Punchbowl stands at approximately 22,549 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 1,005 people (4.7%) from the 21,544 people recorded during the 2021 Census. This population shift is calculated utilizing the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 22,463 alongside 158 validated new addresses confirmed since the Census. With these figures, the location has a density of 4,295 persons per square kilometer, placing it within the highest 10% of all Australian areas analyzed by AreaSearch, indicating that land here is an extremely coveted asset.

This post-census growth of 4.7% is within 0.5 percentage points of the broader SA3 region (5.2%), showing strong local expansion dynamics. The primary catalyst for this population rise was overseas migration, which accounted for roughly 66.9% of the overall population gains in recent times. AreaSearch incorporates population projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia published in 2024 using 2022 as the starting point. Where this dataset is unavailable for specific SA2 zones, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 using a 2021 baseline are applied. Age bracket growth trends derived from these sources are also projected forward for the years 2032 to 2041. Future demographic forecasts suggest the location will experience growth slightly under the national median, with expectations to add 1,870 persons by 2041 relative to the most recent annual ERP statistics, translating to a total increase of 7.9% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Punchbowl SA2?
Total population for the Punchbowl SA2 was estimated to be approximately 22,549 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 22,463 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Punchbowl SA2 changed since 2021?
The punchbowl sa2 has added approximately 1,005 people and shown a 4.66% increase from the 21,544 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Punchbowl SA2?
The population density in the Punchbowl SA2 is estimated at 4,295 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Punchbowl SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Punchbowl SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Punchbowl SA2?
Population growth in the Punchbowl SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (66.9%), Natural increase (33.1%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 66.9% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Punchbowl

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372 new dwellings have been approved in Punchbowl over the past five years, an average of 74 a year. That is 3.4 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 57 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 49% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 62, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Dwelling approvals in Punchbowl have run at a yearly average of approximately 74, resulting in 372 residential approvals over the 5 financial years spanning FY-21 to FY-25, and 57 approvals recorded during FY-26 so far. Because the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) saw an average of only 1 new resident arriving per new home, residential supply is keeping pace with or running ahead of demand, expanding choices for buyers and paving the way for demographic growth that could outpace current forecasts, with new properties being built at an average cost of $274,000, which is lower than the wider regional average and indicates the availability of more budget-friendly housing.

Furthermore, commercial approvals totaling $36.5 million have been logged during the current financial year, pointing to solid corporate investment locally. In comparison to Greater Sydney, the rate of development in Punchbowl is slightly elevated, running 22.0% above the regional average per capita over the 5 year timeframe, which helps preserve options for buyers while defending established home values. However, this pace remains below the national average, indicating a fully mature local market and potential geographical or regulatory limits on new builds. The mix of new residential projects consists of 49.0% detached houses and 51.0% semi-detached options or multi-dwelling apartments. This emphasis on higher-density housing provides affordable entry points to the market and appeals to downsizers, property investors, and first-home buyers. With a ratio of about 378 people for each approval, Punchbowl displays the characteristics of a mature property market. Looking forward, projections suggest Punchbowl will add 1,784 residents by 2041, calculated from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly figures. Under current construction trends, future residential supply looks set to satisfy demand comfortably, fostering favorable purchasing conditions and potentially allowing population growth to exceed current estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Punchbowl SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Punchbowl SA2 area has seen 123 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Punchbowl SA2's current population of 22,549 has been supported by 74 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Punchbowl SA2 has seen 0.34 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.65 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 378 people in the Punchbowl SA2, compared to one for every 190 in the broader region.
Is the Punchbowl SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 1,784 people by 2041, around 595 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Punchbowl SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Punchbowl SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 74, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Punchbowl SA2?
The population in the Punchbowl SA2 is expected to grow by 1,784 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 595 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Punchbowl SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Punchbowl SA2 has grown by approximately 3,845 people, while 372 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 10.3 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 Punchbowl SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 74 approvals per year and a population of 22,549, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 1,784 people by 2041, around 595 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Punchbowl

Development applications around Punchbowl

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 Punchbowl

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AreaSearch tracks 9 current infrastructure and development projects inside Punchbowl, worth an estimated $379 million. A further 87 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $39.6 billion. 26 are already under construction and 43 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans communities, precincts & urban renewal, residential development 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

Local infrastructure projects, planning schemes, and major developments have a significant impact on local growth. AreaSearch has identified 30 active projects likely to influence the suburb. Key developments include the Punchbowl Station Upgrade - Sydney Metro City & Southwest, the Club Punchbowl Redevelopment, the 1552 Canterbury Road Punchbowl Apartments, and the first stage of the Bankstown Exchange (Bankstown Central Masterplan), with the following list detailing the most significant changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Punchbowl SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Punchbowl SA2 include: Punchbowl Station Upgrade - Sydney Metro City & Southwest (Construction); Club Punchbowl Redevelopment (Under Assessment); 1552 Canterbury Road Punchbowl Apartments (Approved); Bankstown Exchange (Stage 1 - Bankstown Central Masterplan) (Construction); and 280-300 Lakemba Street Wiley Park Plaza Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Punchbowl SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Punchbowl SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Punchbowl SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $14.5 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Punchbowl SA2 vicinity.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Punchbowl SA2 ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Punchbowl Station Upgrade - Sydney Metro City & Southwest
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Conversion of the heritage-listed Punchbowl Station, originally opened in 1909, to fully automated metro standards as part of the Sydenham to Bankstown extension of the M1 Metro North West & Bankstown Line. The station closed on 30 September 2024 to allow conversion works, with new lifts installed for the first time, level access between platforms and trains via mechanical gap fillers, platform screen doors, refurbished station buildings, upgraded platform surfaces and a new kiss and ride zone.The works are part of the Dulwich Hill, Campsie and Punchbowl station package delivered by Downer EDI Works (valued around 107 million AUD), with broader corridor works including 28.3 kilometres of new railway fencing, road-over-rail bridge upgrades and platform screen door installation. Once open, customers will have a new air-conditioned metro train every four minutes in the peak, equating to 15 trains an hour compared to eight previously. High-speed dynamic testing at up to 100 km/h commenced in November 2025, with around 9,000 hours and 30,000 kilometres of testing required before opening. Services are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026, with a target opening of September 2026, after delays attributed to industrial action and the complexity of converting a 130-year-old line.

Transport & Logistics

Club Punchbowl Redevelopment
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Dev. Application | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of the former Croatian Club site into a high-density mixed-use precinct. The project includes a new registered club facility, three retail tenancies totaling approximately 1,100sqm, and approximately 320 residential dwellings. Features include a publicly accessible courtyard, pocket park, new internal road, and 423 car parking spaces across basement and at-grade levels. The site is a key component of the Punchbowl Transport Oriented Development (TOD) precinct.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Punchbowl and Wiley Park TOD Precinct Plan
Category: Communities
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2045
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Canterbury-Bankstown Council's place-based alternative to the NSW Government's Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Program for Punchbowl and Wiley Park. The plan was endorsed by Council on 17 June 2025 and submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The LEP amendment (EPI 2026-177) was gazetted on 24 April 2026, formally unlocking more than 15,000 new homes across the two precincts on the doorstep of the new Sydney Metro stations at Punchbowl and Wiley Park.Key features include building heights of 6 to 18 storeys, floor space ratios of 0.7:1 to 5.5:1, a minimum 3 per cent affordable housing requirement for developments over 200 square metres, revitalisation of main streets, new public open spaces and pedestrian links, and mixed-use development within 800 metres of each station.

Communities

1552 Canterbury Road Punchbowl Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Mixed-use development including 66 residential apartments across 6 floors with ground floor commercial spaces and 125 car parking spaces. The site is DA approved but development has not commenced.

Residential Development

Wiley Park Station Sydney Metro Upgrade
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Upgrade of Wiley Park Station to metro standards as part of the T3 Bankstown Line conversion to the Sydney Metro Southwest (M1 line extension). Works include new lifts installed for the first time in the station's history, platform screen doors, level access between platforms and trains, a refreshed concourse, new station entry plaza with seating, lighting and bicycle parking, and new platform canopies. The line closed in September 2024 to enable final conversion works. Metro services between Sydenham and Bankstown are scheduled to open in the second half of 2026, with trains running every four minutes in the peak (15 per hour), delayed from the original 2025 target due to industrial action impacts.

Transport & Logistics

Bankstown Exchange (Stage 1 - Bankstown Central Masterplan)
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Bankstown Exchange is the initial phase of the 30-year Bankstown Central masterplan, creating a vibrant mixed-use destination. The project includes approximately 30,000 sqm of modern office space across three buildings, a new 'Eat Street' dining precinct, and 5,000 sqm of landscaped public space. It features a revitalized bus interchange to integrate with the Sydney Metro City and Southwest line. The development is designed to support the Bankstown Health and Education Innovation Precinct (BHEIP) and includes basement parking for 320 cars and 240 bicycles.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Northern Georges River Submain Wastewater Upgrade
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Sydney Water has rehabilitated a 3 km section of the Northern Georges River Submain, a large-diameter concrete sewer constructed in stages between the 1940s and 1960s that conveys wastewater from Fairfield to Arncliffe through Sydney's south west. The upgrade used trenchless relining technology to renew gas-attacked concrete pipelines, increase capacity within the tunnel, improve reliability of the wastewater service, and reduce the risk of wet weather overflows. Works were carried out from four major above-ground access sites with most activity underground.The project ran from May 2024 to August 2025 and works are now complete, with all sites disestablished and impacted areas restored.

Environmental & Disaster Management

New Bankstown Hospital
Category: Health
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The NSW Government is investing $2 billion to deliver a new state-of-the-art hospital on the former TAFE NSW Bankstown campus site on Chapel Road, the largest single public hospital investment in NSW history. The latest design unveiled in April 2026 features a 14-storey hospital tower alongside a 10-storey car park providing at least 950 spaces (almost double the current capacity). The facility will include an expanded emergency department, operating theatres, intensive care, surgical and medical services, maternity and paediatric services, mental health, outpatients, aged health, and a Research and Education Centre.Located in Bankstown CBD with strong connections to bus, train and the future Sydney Metro, the new hospital aims to transform healthcare for the fast-growing south-west Sydney community. Enabling works commenced on site in March 2026 with Hindmarsh Construction Australia engaged following a competitive tender (contract awarded 16 February 2026), with site fencing installed and demolition of former TAFE buildings due to begin mid 2026. The early works Review of Environmental Factors (REF) was approved on 24 January 2026, and the State Significant Development Application (SSD-105396208) was lodged on 10 April 2026 with submissions closing 7 May 2026. Main works construction is expected to start in 2027 subject to planning approval, with completion targeted for 2031. Existing Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital on Eldridge Road will continue operating throughout construction and later be repurposed for community health services.

Health

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Punchbowl

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9,161 residents of Punchbowl are employed, from a labour force of 10,121. Unemployment sits at 9.5%, with participation at 55.7%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.3% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 19,899, about 88% 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

Punchbowl features a qualified labor force employed across multiple fields, with an unemployment rate of 9.5% and a 2.6% expansion in estimated employment over the previous year. As of March 2026, employed residents count 9,161, with the local unemployment rate sitting 5.4% higher than the Greater Sydney average of 4.1%, highlighting opportunities for labor market integration, while participation in the workforce is notably lower at 55.7% compared to 69.1% across Greater Sydney. Census data indicates that a notable 28.7% of workers operated from home, though this figure may reflect the influence of Covid-19 restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are health care & social assistance, retail trade, and transport, postal & warehousing. There is a marked concentration of workers in transport, postal & warehousing, which is 1.9 times the regional average. Conversely, professional & technical services have a minor footprint, employing 6.0% of the workforce compared to 11.5% across the region. The area is mostly residential and presents relatively few local jobs, as demonstrated by comparing the count of working residents against those employed locally during the Census. According to AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, the 12 months ending March 2026 saw employment rise by 2.6% alongside a 3.7% expansion in the labor force, which caused the unemployment rate to increase by 1.0 percentage points. By comparison, Greater Sydney recorded employment growth of 1.9% and labor force growth of 1.9%, with a minor decline. National employment projections from Jobs and Skills Australia dated May-25 offer additional context for potential future labor demand in Punchbowl. These five and ten-year forecasts have been aligned with local employment statistics to project future hiring. Globally, national employment is projected to rise by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though these trajectories vary widely across different sectors. Applying these industry-specific projections directly to the employment structure of Punchbowl suggests local employment could grow by 6.3% over five years and 13.1% over ten years, noting that this serves as a simple weighted extrapolation for demonstration purposes and does not incorporate local population changes.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Punchbowl SA2?
As of March 2026, the Punchbowl SA2 has approximately 9,161 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 9.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Punchbowl SA2 stands at 9.5%, which is 5.4 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Punchbowl SA2?
The employment landscape in the Punchbowl SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.1% of employment), retail trade (13.3%), and transport, postal & warehousing (10.2%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
How has employment changed recently in the Punchbowl SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Punchbowl SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Punchbowl SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Punchbowl SA2 is 55.7%, 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 Greater Sydney average of 69.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
Which industries are over-represented in the Punchbowl SA2's employment market?
The punchbowl sa2 shows notable specialization in transport, postal & warehousing, which employs 10.2% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Punchbowl SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Punchbowl SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.3% over the next five years and 13.1% 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 Punchbowl SA2 compare nationally?
The punchbowl 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 saw a 5.9% decline, ranking 29.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Punchbowl SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Punchbowl SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 34.2% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (14.1%), education & training (7.7%), and professional & technical (6.0%). With projected employment growth of 6.3% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Punchbowl

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Median household income in Punchbowl is $1,384 a week (about $72,000 a year), with median personal income at $504 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $45,309 a year against an average of $55,296. 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

Aggregated ATO statistics from AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year show that income levels in the Punchbowl SA2 sit below the national average. The median income for local taxpayers is $45,309, with the average income recorded at $55,296, comparing to Greater Sydney benchmarks of $60,817 and $83,003 respectively. Adjusting these numbers for a Wage Price Index increase of 10.32% since the 2023 financial year yields estimated current figures of approximately $49,985 for the median and $61,003 for the average as of March 2026. The 2021 Census highlights that individual weekly earnings are positioned at the 4th percentile ($504 weekly), while household incomes are stronger at the 27th percentile.

The largest cohort comprises 30.8% of residents (6,945 people) earning in the $1,500 - 2,999 range, which aligns closely with the broader region where 30.9% of households fall into this category. Financial pressure from housing is high, leaving residents with only 78.5% of their income, which ranks in the 20th percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 is approximately $49,985. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $45,309.
What is the average taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 is approximately $61,003. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $55,296.
How does the median taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 is approximately $49,985 compared to $67,093 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $45,309 and $60,817 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Punchbowl SA2 is approximately $61,003 compared to $91,569 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $55,296 and $83,003 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Punchbowl SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.8% / 6,945 persons) of the Punchbowl SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Punchbowl SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Punchbowl SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.8% of the population. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Punchbowl SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Punchbowl SA2 is $1,384/wk.
What is the median family income in the Punchbowl SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Punchbowl SA2 is $1,489/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Punchbowl SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Punchbowl SA2 is $504/wk.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's income rank nationally?
The Punchbowl SA2's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Punchbowl SA2's median income among taxpayers is $45,309 and the average income stands at $55,296, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $60,817 and $83,003 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $49,985 (median) and $61,003 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Punchbowl SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Punchbowl SA2 is $4,707 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The punchbowl sa2's disposable income is $4,707 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Punchbowl

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Punchbowl had 6,160 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 58% detached houses and 23% apartments. 31% are owned with a mortgage, 40% rented and 29% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $380 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,026 a month. Rent absorbs 27.5% of household income here and mortgage repayments 33.8%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Residential characteristics in Punchbowl from the most recent Census show that houses made up 58.3% of dwellings, while apartments, townhouses, and other types constituted 41.8%, compared to the Sydney metropolitan split of 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Home ownership rates in the area matched the wider Sydney metropolitan level at 28.8%, with the remaining properties occupied by mortgagors (31.1%) or tenants (40.1%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the locality was $2,026, which is lower than the Sydney metro median of $2,427, while the median weekly rent stood at $380, compared to $470 across the metro area.

On a national level, mortgage repayments in Punchbowl exceed the Australian median of $1,863, and weekly rents are higher than the national average of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Punchbowl SA2?
In the Punchbowl SA2, 28.8% of homes are owned outright, 31.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 40.1% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Punchbowl SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 58.3% of dwellings in the Punchbowl SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Punchbowl SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Punchbowl SA2, 23.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 17.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Punchbowl SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Punchbowl SA2 stands at 28.8%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Punchbowl SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Punchbowl SA2 is $2,026, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
What is the median weekly rent in the Punchbowl SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Punchbowl SA2 is $380, compared to $470 in Greater Sydney.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Punchbowl SA2?
In the Punchbowl SA2, 9.7% of rentals are $0-149/week, 29.9% are $150-349/week, 53.1% are $350-649/week, 7.1% are $650-949/week, and 0.2% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Punchbowl SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Punchbowl SA2 is $1,290, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Punchbowl SA2?
In the Punchbowl SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 33.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.5% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Punchbowl SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Punchbowl SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Punchbowl SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Punchbowl SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 33.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% regionally), while renters spend 27.5% of income on rent (vs 22.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Punchbowl SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Punchbowl SA2 consists of 58.3% detached houses, 17.6% semi-detached dwellings, 23.0% apartments, and 1.2% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Punchbowl SA2?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,290. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,026/month, and renters paying $1,645/month.
How affordable is housing in the Punchbowl SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Punchbowl consumes approximately 21.5% of median household income ($5,993 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 Punchbowl SA2?
Recent development applications in Punchbowl show attached dwellings contributing 45% of approvals compared to 42% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 55% of applications versus 58% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Punchbowl

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Punchbowl counted 6,160 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 3.2 people each. 43% are couples with children, more than in 86% of areas nationally, against 16% couples without children. 20% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.8 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families represent the majority of local households at 76.4%, consisting of couples with children (43.3%), couples without children (16.1%), and single parents (15.0%). Non-family households account for the remaining 23.6%, which includes single-person households at 19.6% and group households at 4.1%. The average household size of 3.2 persons is higher than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Punchbowl SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Punchbowl SA2 had 6,160 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.7% to an estimated 6,447 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Punchbowl SA2 is 3.2 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 76.4% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (19.6%), group households (4.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 4,706 family households, 43.3% are couples with children, 16.1% are couples without children at home, and 15.0% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Punchbowl SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Punchbowl 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 Punchbowl SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Punchbowl SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 48.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.5% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 19.6% of all households in the Punchbowl SA2, similar to the regional average of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.1% of households, well below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Punchbowl

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23.9% of adults in Punchbowl hold a university qualification, including 16.6% with a bachelor degree and 6.1% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 15.8% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 2,325 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 981 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

Educational outcomes in the locality present some challenges, with university completion rates standing at 23.9%, which is significantly lower than the Greater Sydney average of 38.0%. This highlights a clear opening for targeted educational programs. Among residents, 16.6% hold bachelor degrees, 6.1% possess postgraduate degrees, and 1.2% have graduate diplomas. Vocational and technical training is common, with 26.5% of individuals aged 15+ holding a vocational qualification, consisting of advanced diplomas (10.7%) and certificates (15.8%). Active participation in education is high, with 36.2% of the local population enrolled in study. This group includes 11.3% in primary school, 9.6% in high school, and 7.2% enrolled in higher education programs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Punchbowl SA2 have university qualifications?
23.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Punchbowl SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Punchbowl SA2 have no formal qualifications?
49.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Punchbowl SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% regionally.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The punchbowl sa2 ranks in the 40th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Punchbowl SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Punchbowl SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (16.6%), Certificate (15.8%), Advanced Diploma (10.7%).
What proportion of the Punchbowl SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
36.2% of the population in the Punchbowl SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.3% in primary school, 9.6% in secondary school, 7.2% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Punchbowl SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Punchbowl SA2 is 981, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Punchbowl SA2?
There are 4 schools within the Punchbowl SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,325 students.
What types of schools are available in the Punchbowl SA2?
The punchbowl sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Punchbowl

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Punchbowl

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Public transport in Punchbowl reaches 133 stops on 19 routes, timetabled for about 4,700 services a week. The typical home sits about 150 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.3 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport options in Punchbowl include 133 active stops, mainly consisting of bus services. These stops are served by 19 separate routes, which together provide 4,712 passenger journeys every week. Accessibility is high, with the average home located 145 meters from the nearest stop. Due to the suburban character of the area, most workers commute out of the suburb, with cars being the primary mode of travel for 80% of commuters, followed by trains at 11%. Average car ownership is 1.3 vehicles per household. A high proportion of residents, 28.7%, worked from home, based on 2021 Census data which may reflect pandemic-era conditions.

Services run at a frequency of 673 trips per day across all routes, which average out to approximately 35 weekly trips per stop. The accompanying map displays the 100 closest transit stops to the central point of the suburb.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Punchbowl?
There are 133 public transport stops within the Punchbowl SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Punchbowl?
the Punchbowl SA2 has 4,712 weekly trips across 19 routes, averaging 673 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Punchbowl?
On average, residential properties are 145 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Punchbowl

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77.0% of residents in Punchbowl report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 77% of areas nationally. 7.8% need daily assistance with core activities, and 47.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 4.3 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Assessments of health statistics by AreaSearch show favorable health outcomes throughout Punchbowl, with low mortality rates and low rates of chronic illnesses, particularly among the younger cohorts who display low rates of common conditions. The proportion of residents with private health insurance is low at roughly 47% of the population (~10,688 people), compared to 59.9% across Greater Sydney and a national benchmark of 55.7%. Diabetes and arthritis represent the most common health conditions locally, affecting 6.0% and 5.7% of the population respectively. Meanwhile, 77.0% of residents reported having no long-term medical conditions, compared to 74.6% across Greater Sydney.

The working-age population exhibits high levels of health and low levels of chronic disease. Residents aged 65 and older represent 14.8% of the community (3,334 people), and while health outcomes for seniors are above average, they rank lower on a national scale than the general local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Punchbowl SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 47.4% of people in the Punchbowl SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.9% in the broader region of Greater Sydney.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Punchbowl SA2?
In the Punchbowl SA2, 7.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Punchbowl SA2?
5.7% of people in the Punchbowl SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Punchbowl SA2?
Diabetes affects 6.0% of the the Punchbowl SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Punchbowl SA2?
3.0% of people in the Punchbowl SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Sydney, 3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Punchbowl SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Punchbowl SA2, 47.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Punchbowl

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51.1% of Punchbowl residents were born overseas and 75.1% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 95% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are Lebanese (24.1%) and Australian (11.3%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Punchbowl ranks among the most multicultural suburbs in Australia, with 51.1% of residents born abroad and 75.1% speaking a non-English language at home. Christianity is the largest religious group, representing 41.6% of the population. The suburb also has a very high concentration of Muslim residents, who make up 41.1% of the population, which is considerably higher than the Greater Sydney average of 6.8%. Regarding parent birthplaces, the largest ancestry groups in Punchbowl are Other at 29.2% of the population, which is higher than the regional average of 16.0%, Lebanese at 24.1%, which is higher than the regional average of 2.6%, and Australian at 11.3%, which is lower than the regional average of 17.8%.

Other notable ethnic concentrations include Vietnamese residents at 6.2% of the population (compared to 1.8% regionally), Greek at 4.2% (compared to 1.9%), and Samoan at 0.8% (compared to 0.5%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Punchbowl SA2?
Punchbowl is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 51.1% of its population born overseas and 75.1% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the Punchbowl SA2?
The main religion in Punchbowl was found to be Christianity, which makes up 41.6% of people in Punchbowl. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 41.1% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 6.8%.
What are the top countries of origin in the Punchbowl SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Punchbowl are Other, comprising 29.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 16.0%, Lebanese, comprising 24.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 2.6%, and Australian, comprising 11.3% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 17.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Vietnamese is notably overrepresented at 6.2% of Punchbowl (vs 1.8% regionally), Greek at 4.2% (vs 1.9%) and Samoan at 0.8% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
51.1% of the the Punchbowl SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the Punchbowl SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
75.1% of the population in the Punchbowl SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in the wider region.
How many people in the Punchbowl SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.4% of the the Punchbowl SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Punchbowl SA2?
78.9% of the the Punchbowl SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Punchbowl

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The median resident of Punchbowl is 33, younger than 88% of areas nationally. 32.3% 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

With a median age of 33, Punchbowl's population is younger than the Greater Sydney average of 37 and the national average of 38 years. Relative to Greater Sydney, the suburb has a larger proportion of young people aged 15 - 24 (16.1%) but fewer residents aged 35 - 44 (12.5%). Since the 2021 Census, the 15 to 24 age bracket grew from 14.7% to 16.1%, and the 65 to 74 age group rose from 7.3% to 8.3%, while the 5 to 14 age group declined from 14.3% to 12.5%. Long-term population forecasts for 2041 point to significant changes, with the 75 to 84 cohort projected to grow the fastest at 57%, adding 586 residents to total 1,610.

The aging trend is expected to continue, with residents aged 65 and over accounting for 60% of overall growth, while the 0 to 4 and 5 to 14 cohorts are projected to experience declines.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Punchbowl SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Punchbowl SA2 is 33 years.
How does the Punchbowl SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 33 years, Punchbowl is 4 years younger than the Greater Sydney average (37 years) and 5 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Punchbowl SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Punchbowl SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 16.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Punchbowl SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Punchbowl SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the Punchbowl SA2 is broadly in line with the Greater Sydney region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Punchbowl SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Punchbowl SA2 is 19.1%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Punchbowl SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Punchbowl SA2 is 14.8%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Punchbowl

Data currency Refreshed

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

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

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily May 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 May 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 158 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (21,544 at the 2021 Census → 22,549 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (119021366). 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 Punchbowl 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 Punchbowl 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 Punchbowl data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas