Area profile · Rest of NSW
Shellharbour - Oak Flats has an estimated 11,175 residents, up 5.5% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Shellharbour - Oak Flats.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Shellharbour - Oak Flats Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 85 kilometres south-southwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 11,175 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 10,590 people, the area is estimated to have grown by 585 people (5.5%). That estimate combines the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 11,008 as of June 2025 with 510 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date.
Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43, and population growth follows a moderate expansion pattern. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The area is known for picturesque landscapes, lush greenery and stunning waterfronts, with a relaxed coastal atmosphere suited to families and individuals seeking a peaceful retreat. Beautiful beaches, a pristine lake, and abundant parks and reserves provide opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing and picnicking, while several historical sites highlight its heritage and the friendly, tight-knit local community adds to its appeal.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Shellharbour - Oak Flats Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 85 kilometres south-southwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 11,175 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 10,590 people, the area is estimated to have grown by 585 people (5.5%). That estimate combines the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 11,008 as of June 2025 with 510 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date.
Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43, and population growth follows a moderate expansion pattern. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The area is known for picturesque landscapes, lush greenery and stunning waterfronts, with a relaxed coastal atmosphere suited to families and individuals seeking a peaceful retreat. Beautiful beaches, a pristine lake, and abundant parks and reserves provide opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing and picnicking, while several historical sites highlight its heritage and the friendly, tight-knit local community adds to its appeal.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,170 in 2001 and 11,007 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,175 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 13%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.4%.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for amenities and the 76th for transport & access.
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 Shellharbour - Oak Flats is $687 a week, up 6.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 18% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.9%.
18% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $490 in 2017, $723 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $355 in 2017, $574 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Lyne Street, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $1,035,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1/10 Falcon Street, Shellharbour City Centre NSW 2529 | $905,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2/2 Barton Street, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $700,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/17 Fisher Street, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $833,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 30 Westwood Drive, Blackbutt NSW 2529 | $860,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/24 Hopetoun Street, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $870,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 1/29 Parma Way, Blackbutt NSW 2529 | $782,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3/8 Timbs Road, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $700,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2/30 Falcon Street, Blackbutt NSW 2529 | $920,000 | 10 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 70 Brigadoon Circuit, Oak Flats NSW 2529 | $1,250,000 | 9 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 24 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $907,500 (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 | $687 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.06m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $845k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $907,500 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 24 Jun 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +1.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $574 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Kiama - Shellharbour | $729 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Kiama - Shellharbour, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Illawarra | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Illawarra, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 223 tracked applications: 111 approved, 80 under assessment, 32 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Shellharbour - Oak Flats, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in Shellharbour - Oak Flats and 107 more in the surrounding area.
Proposed hotel development on a 6,736 sqm parcel of Council-owned land (Lot 1 DP 1098888) beside The Links Golf Course at Shell Cove, around 300 metres from the new Shellharbour Hospital. Shellharbour City Council ran an Expressions of Interest process seeking an experienced hotel developer partner to design, build and operate the hotel.
Retail park expansion and tenant remix adjacent to the main Stockland Shellharbour centre. Works since 2013 have established a major regional retail destination anchored by Myer in the mall and, at the retail park, large-format tenancies including Woolworths, Dan Murphys, Chemist Warehouse, Baby Bunting, Petbarn, Rebel, Ronis and TK Maxx.
Modifications to Blackbutt Dam by Shellharbour City Council, including lowering the water level, reconstructing the embankment and spillway, and site restoration. The project was undertaken to improve safety, meet compliance requirements from Dams Safety NSW, and resulted in the dam being de-prescribed as a declared dam in 2022.
Construction of an eight-storey residential flat building comprising 55 residential units, two levels of basement car parking, landscaping, drainage, a two-lot Torrens Title subdivision, and part public road and civil works in Shellharbour City Centre.
New public primary school and co-located preschool at the corner of Calderwood Road and Escarpment Drive, Calderwood. The school will accommodate 576 students across 24 permanent classrooms, 3 support learning classrooms, a library, hall, covered outdoor learning area (COLA), canteen and administration areas.
A $828.9 million regional acute healthcare facility serving the Illawarra region, featuring a 7-storey building with an expanded emergency department, elective surgical centre, mental health unit, rooftop helipad, and acute medical services.
Rebuilding a 930-meter seawall (revetment) to modern engineering standards to address coastal erosion and public safety. The project features improved beach access with a minimum of three formalised beach access points and an emergency access ramp.
A 30-year extension of the existing Albion Park Quarry extraction area, approved to secure approximately 33 million tonnes of hard rock resources for the Illawarra and Greater Sydney regions, ensuring continued supply for the construction industry.
The Waterfront Shell Cove is a 2.1 billion AUD master-planned coastal community developed by Frasers Property Australia in partnership with Shellharbour City Council. The project features a 270-berth marina, a vibrant town centre, and approximately 3,250 homes.
A private development consortium is delivering a multi-stage industrial and commercial business park along the Princes Highway corridor in Albion Park Rail following the bypass opening.
The Regional Multi-Sports, Aquatics and Leisure Facility is a priority recreational project proposed by Shellharbour City Council at Albion Park Rail. The planned multi-purpose hub features a comprehensive combination of indoor sports courts, outdoor playing fields, and modern aquatic amenities to serve regional athletic associations.
No evidence could be located from NSW Government, Shellharbour City Council, University of Wollongong, Regional Development Australia or other authoritative sources confirming that this proposed innovation hub is an active or progressing project.
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 74 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 2, 2025 5, 2026 14, 2027 19, 2028 15, 2029 6, 2030 7, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 4. 21 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 223 substantial development applications lodged in and around Shellharbour - Oak Flats over the past 5 years, 134 in the last 12 months; 80 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 4, 2022 16, 2023 20, 2024 23, 2025 53, 2026 (to Oct) 107.
Key application 16 College Avenue, Shellharbour City Centre Mixed Use | $30m | 77 dwellings Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 223 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 134 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 73 | ABS building approvals | 71st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 111 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 80 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 include: Shellharbour City Centre Masterplan (Approved); The Links Hotel (Proposed); Playground Renewals & Upgrades Program (Jilba Park, Collins Reserve) (Completed); Albion Park Quarry Extraction Area Stage 7 Extension (Approved); and New Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Tourism, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Shellharbour - Oak Flats when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 area has seen 147 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2's current population of 11,175 has been supported by 73 approvals on average over recent years.
The Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has seen 6.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 160 people in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 73, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has grown by approximately 511 people, while 367 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Population growth drivers in Shellharbour - Oak Flats are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,175 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,847 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,590 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 585 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 6.05 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,175 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,008 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2 has added approximately 585 people and shown a 5.52% increase from the 10,590 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is estimated at 1,847 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (52.2%), Natural increase (24.5%), Interstate migration (23.3%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 52.2% of overall population gains.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 43 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.6% | 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 | 43 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 at 43 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 43 years as at August 2026, Shellharbour - Oak Flats is equal to the Regional NSW 2021 Census average and 5 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.2% of the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.3% of the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats 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) | $60,419 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 57th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $76,590 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,478 | 2021 Census, weekly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $692 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,846 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is approximately $64,274. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $60,419.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is approximately $81,476. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $76,590.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is approximately $64,274 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,419 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is approximately $81,476 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,590 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2's households (~30.4% / 1,206 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.4% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $1,478/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $1,846/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $692/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $60,419 with the average level standing at $76,590. This is higher than average nationally and compares to levels of $55,733 and $69,112 across Regional NSW respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $64,274 (median) and $81,476 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $5,295 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2's disposable income is $5,295 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Shellharbour - Oak Flats has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 62.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,322 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,235 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,668 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has approximately 5,322 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.1%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 stands at 6.1%, which is 2.0 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.7% of employment), construction (13.0%), and retail trade (11.7%). Other significant employers include education & training and manufacturing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is 62.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.0% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.2% growth, ranking 17th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Shellharbour - Oak Flats: university qualifications 15.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 989.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
15.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
41.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2 ranks in the 34th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 are: Certificate (32.1%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%), Bachelor Degree (10.6%).
26.0% of the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.9% in primary school, 7.4% in secondary school, 3.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is 989, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,879 students.
The shellharbour - oak flats sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 29.1% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.8% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,967 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,186 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 had 3,967 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.5% to an estimated 4,186 households today.
The average household size in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 73.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.1%), group households (2.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,908 family households, couples with children account for 29.1% of all households, couples without children at home 28.8%, and single parent families 13.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 24.1% of all households in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.6% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Shellharbour - Oak Flats records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 20.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 86.9% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.4% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 79.4% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
Shellharbour - Oak Flats was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 20.6% of its population born overseas and 13.1% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Shellharbour - Oak Flats was found to be Christianity, which makes up 56.7% of people in Shellharbour - Oak Flats. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Shellharbour - Oak Flats are English, comprising 27.8% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.7% of the population, and Other, comprising 7.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Spanish is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Shellharbour - Oak Flats (vs 0.3% across Regional NSW), Macedonian at 3.4% (vs 0.4%) and Serbian at 0.6% (vs 0.2%).
20.6% of the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
13.1% of the population in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.0% of the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
90.4% of the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 27.2% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 41.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 75.5% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,950 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 57th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 20.0% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $425 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, 41.6% of homes are owned outright, 31.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 75.5% of dwellings in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 are houses.
In the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, 4.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 20.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 stands at 41.6%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $1,950, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is $1,109, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 30.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 30.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 28.8% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 consists of 75.5% detached houses, 20.0% semi-detached dwellings, 4.2% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Shellharbour - Oak Flats consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($6,400 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Shellharbour - Oak Flats show attached dwellings contributing 81% of approvals compared to 24% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 19% of applications versus 76% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in Shellharbour - Oak Flats is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 60th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.3% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.3% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Around 55.4% of people in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, 7.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.8% of people in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.3% of the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.6% of people in the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2, 55.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 76 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 76th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 100 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,972 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 111 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 56 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 21.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 100 public transport stops within the Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2.
The Shellharbour - Oak Flats SA2 has 2,972 weekly trips across 56 routes, averaging 424 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 157 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 322 m away and the nearest school 464 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 100 stops nearby, 2,972 weekly trips, access rating 76 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 | 322 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 464 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 518 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 525 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 545 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 580 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 615 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 819 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 904 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.7 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 12 long day care centres with 680 places in Shellharbour - Oak Flats, about 1.0 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 Shellharbour - Oak Flats is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Shellharbour - Oak Flats.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Shellharbour - Oak Flats when compared nationally.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats ranks in the 65th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats's established property market has recorded 259 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 96% residential and 4% commercial transactions.
Population growth drivers in Shellharbour - Oak Flats are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Shellharbour - Oak Flats has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
Education in Shellharbour - Oak Flats: university qualifications 15.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 989.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
In terms of cultural diversity, Shellharbour - Oak Flats records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Shellharbour - Oak Flats is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good 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.
Shellharbour - Oak Flats has an estimated 11,175 residents, up 5.5% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Shellharbour - Oak Flats.
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 Shellharbour - Oak Flats.
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 (107031142). 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 Shellharbour - Oak Flats 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 Shellharbour - Oak Flats 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.
