Area profile · Greater Sydney
Rockdale - Banksia has an estimated 23,313 residents, up 17.4% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in Rockdale - Banksia.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Rockdale - Banksia Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 11.6 kilometres southwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 23,313 as of Aug 2026, up from 19,853 people at the 2021 Census. That represents an increase of 3,460 people (17.4%), drawing on the ABS estimated resident population of 23,103 as of June 2025 and 467 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Population density and growth drivers are well above average, and the area features a high population born overseas, a strong apartment presence, an above-average renting population, a below-average unemployment rate, and a notable 25 to 34 year old demographic.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers as well as young adults, many living in group households, and the area is highly culturally diverse. Population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Rockdale - Banksia Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 11.6 kilometres southwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 23,313 as of Aug 2026, up from 19,853 people at the 2021 Census. That represents an increase of 3,460 people (17.4%), drawing on the ABS estimated resident population of 23,103 as of June 2025 and 467 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Population density and growth drivers are well above average, and the area features a high population born overseas, a strong apartment presence, an above-average renting population, a below-average unemployment rate, and a notable 25 to 34 year old demographic.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers as well as young adults, many living in group households, and the area is highly culturally diverse. Population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 15,904 in 2001 and 23,103 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 23,313 (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, 24.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.3%.
Rockdale - Banksia ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for amenities and the 97th 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 Rockdale - Banksia is $694 a week, up 3.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 12% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.6%.
12% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $634 in 2017, $816 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $499 in 2017, $680 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 427 Princes Highway, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $29,500,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 14/13 Ashton Street, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $820,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 10/15 Subway Road, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $800,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 129/555 Princes Highway, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $790,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 102/2 Ashton Street, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $1,104,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 28/52 Bay Street, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $1,435,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2/6 Cairo Street, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $720,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/6 The Strand, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $482,500 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 408/1 Chapel Street, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $800,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 210/395 Princes Highway, Rockdale NSW 2216 | $474,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 4 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $752,500 (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 | $694 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.75m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $733k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $752,500 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 4 Aug 2026 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $816 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | -2.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $680 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Kogarah - Rockdale | $751 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Kogarah - Rockdale, over 12 months | +3.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Inner South West | $712 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Inner South West, over 12 months | +3.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Sydney | $789 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Sydney, over 12 months | +5.3% | 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 150 tracked applications: 84 approved, 28 under assessment, 38 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 22 projects in Rockdale - Banksia (6 under construction) and 111 more in the surrounding area.
An 11-storey mixed-use build-to-rent development delivering 80 affordable housing apartments, two ground-floor commercial spaces, and basement parking in Rockdale.
Reinstatement and upgrade of Rockdale Bicentennial Park as part of the M6 Stage 1 project. Works include restoration of parkland after tunnel construction, upgraded playing fields, skate park, playgrounds, shared walking and cycling paths, wetland restoration, increased tree canopy and new recreational infrastructure.
Fox Lane Rockdale is a $50 million boutique residential development featuring 43 studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments plus two ground-floor commercial/retail spaces. The project offers chic modern interiors and resort-style rooftop amenities including a pool, gym, BBQ area, and outdoor cinema, along with secure parking.
A 12-storey mixed-use development featuring 65 co-living rooms, a ground-floor commercial tenancy, communal areas including a rooftop terrace, basement parking, and sustainable design elements for affordable shared living in Rockdale.
An approved 12-storey shop-top housing development at 465-469 Princes Highway & 5-7 Geeves Avenue, Rockdale. The project features two ground-floor commercial tenancies, residential co-living apartments above, and basement car parking, with an estimated capital investment value of approximately $30.3M.
Comprehensive upgrade of the Riverine Park clubhouse including new change rooms, toilets, canteen facilities, roofing, new windows, lighting, interior fit out, sewer connection, tiered seating, and solar panels installation. Modern facilities, improved accessibility, and enhanced amenities for sports clubs and community groups.
A 10-storey mixed-use development comprising 91 residential apartments, a 96-place ground floor childcare centre, private rooftop terraces, and basement parking following approval by the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel.
A purpose-built Community and Cultural Centre planned for the civic heart of Rockdale. Originally proposed as a refurbishment of the former Church of Christ hall at 5 Bryant St, the project was folded into the broader Rockdale Spine initiative in December 2024 following cost overruns.
58 one, two and three-bedroom designer apartments at 602-608 Princes Highway, Rockdale by Princeton Financial Services. Features a communal rooftop garden sanctuary with BBQ and pergola, SOHO commercial spaces at street level, 10-year Latent Defect Insurance, and iCIRT-rated builder Coplex.
Arncliffe Central is a mixed-tenure urban renewal redevelopment of the former Arncliffe Estate between Eden Street and the Princes Highway. The project is replacing 142 ageing social housing dwellings with 806 new apartments across four buildings, including 311 social housing apartments, 291 affordable housing apartments and 204 private market apartments.
Approved demolition of existing buildings and construction of a part 10 and part 13 storey mixed-use building comprising 129 residential units, ground floor commercial tenancies, basement parking for 179 vehicles, and a planning agreement for dedication of local road widening on Lister Avenue.
Mixed-use residential development comprising 61 residential units including affordable housing, commercial spaces, and basement parking, valued at $51.26 million, contributing to residential growth in the Rockdale area.
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 60 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 10, 2026 16, 2027 16, 2028 10, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 2, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 2. 29 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 150 substantial development applications lodged in and around Rockdale - Banksia over the past 5 years, 86 in the last 12 months; 28 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 3, 2022 22, 2023 6, 2024 23, 2025 15, 2026 (to Oct) 81.
Key application 81 Railway Street, Rockdale Retail | $63m | 129 dwellings
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 150 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 86 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 86 | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 84 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 include: Tallowwood Apartments (Construction); Fox Lane Rockdale (Construction); 465-469 Princes Highway Co-Living Development (Approved); Rockdale Bicentennial Park Reinstatement (Construction); and 594-600 Princes Highway Mixed-Use & Childcare Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Rockdale - Banksia among the top 12% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 area has seen 212 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Rockdale - Banksia SA2's current population of 23,313 has been supported by 86 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Rockdale - Banksia SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 86, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 has grown by approximately 2,372 people, while 428 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Rockdale - Banksia reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 23,313 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +17.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6,519 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 19,853 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 3,460 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.58 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 was estimated to be approximately 23,313 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,103 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The rockdale - banksia sa2 has added approximately 3,460 people and shown a 17.43% increase from the 19,853 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is estimated at 6,512 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (92.0%), Natural increase (8.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 92.0% of overall population gains.
Rockdale - Banksia's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 39.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 60.0% | 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 | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 24.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Rockdale - Banksia is 3 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 24.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (24.8% vs 16.2%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (7.1% vs 11.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.2% of the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.0% of the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,453 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 34th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,084 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,910 | 2021 Census, weekly | 59th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $795 | 2021 Census, weekly | 48th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 24.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,048 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is approximately $58,991. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,453.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is approximately $73,492. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,084.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is approximately $58,991 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,453 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is approximately $73,492 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,084 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Rockdale - Banksia SA2's households (~36.3% / 2,561 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.3% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $1,910/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $2,048/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $795/wk.
The Rockdale - Banksia SA2's income level is just below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Rockdale - Banksia SA2's median income among taxpayers is $55,453 and the average income stands at $69,084, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $63,183 and $86,684 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,991 (median) and $73,492 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $6,740 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The rockdale - banksia sa2's disposable income is $6,740 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Rockdale - Banksia demonstrate exceptional strength compared to most Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 77.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 15,394 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 18,699 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 15,764 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 has approximately 15,394 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.3%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 stands at 2.3%, which is 1.8 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.1% of employment), retail trade (11.0%), and accommodation & food (10.1%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and transport, postal & warehousing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is 77.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The rockdale - banksia sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 10.1% of the local workforce compared to 5.8% across Greater Sydney. 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.
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The rockdale - banksia sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Rockdale - Banksia ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 26.6% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 39.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 13.4% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
39.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
34.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The rockdale - banksia sa2 ranks in the 68th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (26.6%), Certificate (13.4%), Advanced Diploma (12.5%).
30.9% of the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.7% in primary school, 5.1% in secondary school, 8.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is 1050, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 841 students.
The rockdale - banksia sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Rockdale - Banksia features high concentrations of group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,056 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,286 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 had 7,056 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 17.4% to an estimated 8,286 households today.
The average household size in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (23.0%), group households (8.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,833 family households, couples with children account for 29.8% of all households, couples without children at home 26.5%, and single parent families 10.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 47.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.3% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 23.0% of all households in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, similar to the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 8.7% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Rockdale - Banksia is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 60.9% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 66.6% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 67.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 39.1% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
Rockdale - Banksia is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 66.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 60.9% born overseas.
The main religion in Rockdale - Banksia was found to be Christianity, which makes up 42.6% of people in Rockdale - Banksia. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 16.0% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 5.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Rockdale - Banksia are Other, comprising 30.7% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 16.0%, Chinese, comprising 11.0% of the population, and English, comprising 9.3% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Sydney's 19.0%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 6.2% of Rockdale - Banksia (vs 0.4% across Greater Sydney), Lebanese at 4.3% (vs 2.6%) and Spanish at 1.0% (vs 0.6%).
60.9% of the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
66.6% of the population in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.5% of the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
67.2% of the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Rockdale - Banksia features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 44.4% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 25.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 59.4% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,185 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $460 | 2021 Census, weekly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 24.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 70th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, 25.8% of homes are owned outright, 29.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 44.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 33.9% of dwellings in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 are houses.
In the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, 59.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 stands at 25.8%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $2,185, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is $1,536, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 24.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 24.1% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 consists of 33.9% detached houses, 4.9% semi-detached dwellings, 59.4% apartments, and 1.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Rockdale - Banksia consumes approximately 18.6% of median household income ($8,270 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Rockdale - Banksia show attached dwellings contributing 92% of approvals compared to 66% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 8% of applications versus 34% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Rockdale - Banksia is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
The level of general health in Rockdale - Banksia is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 41st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 79.6% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
Around 52.0% of people in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, 5.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
4.6% of people in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.7% of people in the Rockdale - Banksia SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Rockdale - Banksia SA2, 52.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.8%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 87 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 87th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 112 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 76th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 6,036 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 214 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 28 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 32.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 112 public transport stops within the Rockdale - Banksia SA2.
The Rockdale - Banksia SA2 has 6,036 weekly trips across 28 routes, averaging 862 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 141 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 239 m away and the nearest GP 301 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 112 stops nearby, 6,036 weekly trips, access rating 87 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 98th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 239 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 301 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 309 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 348 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 370 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 377 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 432 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 443 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 488 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 632 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.8 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 7 long day care centres with 338 places in Rockdale - Banksia, about 3.5 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 Rockdale - Banksia 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.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Rockdale - Banksia among the top 12% of areas assessed nationwide.
Rockdale - Banksia ranks in the 48th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Rockdale - Banksia's established property market has recorded 346 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 96% residential and 4% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Rockdale - Banksia reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Rockdale - Banksia's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Rockdale - Banksia demonstrate exceptional strength compared to most Australian markets.
The educational profile of Rockdale - Banksia ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Rockdale - Banksia features high concentrations of group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Rockdale - Banksia is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Rockdale - Banksia features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
The level of general health in Rockdale - Banksia is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport servicing is high 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.
Rockdale - Banksia has an estimated 23,313 residents, up 17.4% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in Rockdale - Banksia.
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 Rockdale - Banksia.
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 Aug 2026. Housing, households 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 (119041381). 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 (Aug 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, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Rockdale - Banksia 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 Rockdale - Banksia 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.
