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This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
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ABS ERP | -- people | --
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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What it costs to rent in Stockton - Fullerton Cove
Median weekly rents, year-on-year movement and bond-lodgement activity for Stockton - Fullerton Cove (2295). Sourced from the NSW Rental Bond Board, DCJ Family & Community Services.
Median rent
$884
per week · Q4 2025
YoY change
▲+16.5%
vs same quarter last year
Active bonds
≈321
est. · currently held
New bonds
≈24
est. · this quarter
Latest Quarter Breakdown · Q4 2025
| Dwelling | Bedrooms | Median $/wk | Active bonds | New bonds (Qtr) | YoY | Quality |
|---|
SOURCE: NSW Rental Bond Board (DCJ Family & Community Services), processed by AreaSearch. Imputed values are flagged. Latest publication:
Population
Stockton - Fullerton Cove lies within the top 10% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends
Stockton-Fullerton Cove's population was 8,824 as of May 2021. By May 2026, it had increased to around 9,728, a rise of 904 people (10.2%). This growth is inferred from ABS estimates: 9,709 in June 2025 plus 195 validated new addresses since the Census date. The population density was 318 persons per square kilometer by May 2026. Stockton-Fullerton Cove's growth exceeded Rest of NSW (4.9%) and its SA4 region, positioning it as a growth leader. Interstate migration contributed approximately 74.2% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For areas not covered, NSW State Government's SA2 level projections from 2022 (base year 2021) are used. Growth rates by age group are applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Future population dynamics predict exceptional growth, placing Stockton-Fullerton Cove in the top 10 percent of Australia's regional areas. By 2041, the area is expected to grow by 4,697 persons, reflecting a total gain of 48.1% over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Stockton - Fullerton Cove was found to be higher than 90% of real estate markets across the country
Stockton-Fullerton Cove has granted approval for approximately 51 residential properties each year. Between FY-21 and FY-25, a total of 255 homes were approved, with an additional 18 approved in FY-26. On average, over these five years, around 4.5 new residents arrived per dwelling constructed annually.
This supply lagging demand has led to heightened buyer competition and pricing pressures, with new homes being built at an average construction cost of $294,000. In FY-26, $7.9 million in commercial development approvals have been recorded, indicating the area's residential character. Compared to the rest of NSW, Stockton-Fullerton Cove maintains similar construction rates per person, preserving market balance with the broader area.
New building activity consists of approximately 83% standalone homes and 17% townhouses or apartments, reflecting the area's low density nature and attracting space-seeking buyers. With around 263 people per dwelling approval, Stockton-Fullerton Cove exhibits a developing market. According to AreaSearch quarterly estimates, the population is projected to grow by 4,678 residents by 2041. If current development rates continue, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially increasing buyer competition and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Stockton - Fullerton Cove
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| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
|---|
SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Stockton - Fullerton Cove has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 33 projects likely to affect the region. Notable initiatives include Fullerton Cove Shopping Centre, Rifle Range, Fern Bay, Bayway Village, and Fern Bay North Stockton Strategy. The following list details those most relevant:.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Port of Newcastle Master Plan 2040
The Port Master Plan 2040 is a strategic framework for diversifying the Port's trade beyond coal. Key pillars include the Clean Energy Precinct (CEP) on Kooragang Island, a 220-hectare hub for green hydrogen and ammonia production with construction set for 2027. It also encompasses the Newcastle Deepwater Container Terminal (NDCT) designed for 2 million TEUs annually and the Multipurpose Terminal (MPT) berth extension, which begins early works in 2026 to accommodate larger vessels up to 300 metres.
Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub
The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub (HVHH) is a commercial-scale green hydrogen production facility located on Kooragang Island. Led by Orica following Origin Energy's exit from the joint venture in late 2024, the project will feature a 50 MW electrolyser powered by renewable energy. It aims to produce approximately 4,700 tonnes of green hydrogen annually to decarbonise Orica's ammonia manufacturing plant by replacing natural gas feedstock. The project secured a landmark $432 million investment from the federal Hydrogen Headstart program in July 2025 and is a cornerstone of the NSW Hydrogen Strategy.
Fullerton Cove Shopping Centre
A new neighbourhood shopping centre development featuring a 3,800 sqm full-line Woolworths supermarket, BWS liquor store, and approximately 2,500 sqm of specialty retail space. The project includes a medical centre and over 300 car parking spaces to serve the growing residential communities of Fullerton Cove and Fern Bay. The design incorporates a 9-metre height limit and a 7,000 sqm maximum gross floor area limit to ensure the centre remains a local hub that complements the surrounding environmental conservation zones.
Fullerton Cove Shopping Centre
A new mixed-use shopping centre including a Woolworths supermarket, liquor store, commercial tenancies, a medical centre, and car parking. The development site at 42 Fullerton Cove Road was rezoned in 2022 as part of the Fern Bay and North Stockton Strategy plan. The development application was approved by the Hunter & Central Coast Regional Planning Panel in January 2025.
Bayway Village
An over 50s land lease community with resort-style facilities and a variety of social activities, offering modern, low-maintenance homes for relaxed coastal living. The village is pet-friendly and features a new indoor pool, gym, bowling green, and community hall.
Stockton Beach Repair Project
NSW Government program to address coastal erosion at Stockton Beach through sand nourishment and related protection works. Current phase focuses on environmental assessments, licensing and approvals, and preparing for large-scale offshore dredging and mass sand nourishment to improve beach condition and protect assets.
Fern Bay and North Stockton Strategy
A joint 20-year land use strategy by Port Stephens Council and City of Newcastle to guide future development in Fern Bay and North Stockton. It focuses on creating a mixed-use town center, diverse housing, connected open spaces, and improved transport options, including pedestrian and cycling links. The strategy outlines development for six distinct precincts. Recent progress includes development applications for a residential subdivision at the former Stockton Rifle Range and a new shopping center at Fullerton Cove Road.
Rifle Range, Fern Bay
A coastal residential redevelopment of the former Stockton Rifle Range featuring 232 land lots, a 1.5-hectare central park, and scenic walkways linking to Stockton Beach and local bushland. The masterplan includes 97 service residences for Defence families and 135 lots for the public. The project incorporates heritage stabilization of a former Anti-Aircraft Battery and extensive environmental conservation zones covering approximately 50% of the 105-hectare site. Development Application 16-2023-690-1 is currently being reviewed by the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel as of early 2025.
Employment
Employment conditions in Stockton - Fullerton Cove remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis
Stockton-Fullerton Cove has an unemployment rate of 3.6% as of December 2025, which is below Regional NSW's rate of 3.9%. The workforce participation rate in the area is 55.9%, slightly lower than Regional NSW's 60.5%. As of this date, 4,346 residents are employed.
A notable proportion, 27.8%, work from home. The dominant employment sectors include health care & social assistance, public administration & safety, and education & training. Public administration & safety is particularly concentrated in the area, with employment levels at 1.6 times the regional average. Conversely, agriculture, forestry & fishing is under-represented, accounting for only 0.7% of Stockton-Fullerton Cove's workforce compared to Regional NSW's 5.3%.
The area appears to offer limited local employment opportunities, as indicated by the ratio of Census working population to resident population. Over the year ending December 2025, employment in Stockton-Fullerton Cove increased by 0.4% while labour force increased by 1.6%, leading to a rise in unemployment rate by 1.1 percentage points. In comparison, Regional NSW experienced an employment decline of 1.2%, labour force decline of 0.8%, and an unemployment rate increase of 0.4 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that national employment is projected to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Stockton-Fullerton Cove's employment mix indicates potential local employment growth of 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though this extrapolation does not consider localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis
The median taxpayer income in Stockton - Fullerton Cove SA2 is $59,615, with an average of $72,274 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for financial year 2023. This is higher than national averages, contrasting with Regional NSW's median income of $52,390 and average income of $65,215. By March 2026, estimated incomes would be approximately $65,767 (median) and $79,733 (average), based on a 10.32% increase from the financial year 2023. According to the 2021 Census, household, family, and personal incomes rank modestly in Stockton - Fullerton Cove, between the 30th and 32nd percentiles. The $1,500 - 2,999 income bracket captures 27.2% of the community (2,646 individuals), consistent with broader regional trends showing 29.9% in the same category. Housing affordability pressures are severe, with only 82.4% of income remaining after housing costs, ranking at the 28th percentile. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 5th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Stockton - Fullerton Cove is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
In Stockton-Fullerton Cove as per the latest Census, 89.1% of dwellings were houses, with the remaining 10.9% comprising semi-detached homes, apartments and other types. This compares to Regional NSW's 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings. Home ownership in Stockton-Fullerton Cove stood at 46.5%, with mortgaged properties at 28.2% and rented ones at 25.3%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $2,167, higher than Regional NSW's average of $1,733. The median weekly rent in Stockton-Fullerton Cove was $430, compared to Regional NSW's $330. Nationally, Stockton-Fullerton Cove's mortgage repayments were significantly higher at $2,167 versus the Australian average of $1,863, and rents were substantially above the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Stockton - Fullerton Cove has a typical household mix, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 68.0% of all households, including 25.1% couples with children, 32.8% couples without children, and 9.4% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 32.0%, with lone person households at 29.5% and group households comprising 2.4%. The median household size is 2.3 people, which is smaller than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational attainment in Stockton - Fullerton Cove aligns closely with national averages, showing typical qualification patterns and performance metrics
Stockton's educational qualifications are benchmarked against regional norms, with 22.5% of residents aged 15+ holding university degrees, compared to NSW's 32.2%. This indicates potential for educational development and skills enhancement. Bachelor degrees are most common at 14.9%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (5.0%) and graduate diplomas (2.6%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 40.4% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (11.6%) and certificates (28.8%).
Educational participation is high, with 26.5% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.1% in primary education, 6.8% in secondary education, and 3.8% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Stockton-Fullerton Cove has 91 active public transport stops offering a mix of ferry and bus services. These stops are served by 39 different routes, collectively facilitating 1,425 weekly passenger trips. Residents enjoy excellent transport accessibility, with an average distance of 180 meters to the nearest stop. Primarily residential, most residents commute outward, with car being the dominant mode at 91%. The area has an average vehicle ownership of 1.3 per dwelling, below the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, a high 27.8% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions.
Service frequency averages 203 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 15 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Stockton - Fullerton Cove is well below average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts
Stockton - Fullerton Cove faces significant health challenges based on AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Both younger and older age cohorts have notable health condition prevalence.
Approximately 55% (~5,340 people) of the total population has private health cover, compared to 51.9% across Regional NSW. The most common conditions are arthritis (11.9%) and mental health issues (8.6%). Around 60.3% of residents report no medical ailments, compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW. Working-age residents have above average chronic health condition prevalence. The area has 29.0% (2,819 people) of residents aged 65 and over, higher than the 23.4% in Regional NSW. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, with rankings broadly in line with the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Stockton - Fullerton Cove is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics
Stockton-Fullerton Cove, surveyed in June 2016, showed low cultural diversity: 88.6% were born in Australia, 91.4% were citizens, and 95.9% spoke English only at home. Christianity was the predominant religion (56.5%), slightly higher than Regional NSW's 55.9%. The top three ancestral groups were English (32.9%), Australian (29.5%), and Irish (9.2%).
Notably, Welsh (1.1%) and Scottish (8.6%) groups were proportionally higher compared to regional averages of 0.5% and 8.0%, respectively. However, the Australian Aboriginal population was lower at 3.4% compared to Regional NSW's 4.6%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Stockton - Fullerton Cove hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide
Stockton-Fullerton Cove's median age is 47 years, significantly higher than Regional NSW's average of 43 and the national average of 38. The age profile shows that those aged 75-84 are particularly prominent at 11.3%, while the 55-64 group is comparatively smaller at 10.7% compared to Regional NSW. This concentration of 75-84 year-olds is well above the national average of 6.1%. Between 2021 and the present, the 15-24 age group has grown from 8.6% to 11.2%, while the 75-84 cohort increased from 9.7% to 11.3%. Conversely, the 65-74 age group has declined from 17.3% to 15.1%, and the 55-64 group dropped from 12.9% to 10.7%. By 2041, Stockton-Fullerton Cove is expected to see notable shifts in its age composition, with the 75-84 group projected to grow by 60%, reaching 1,757 people from a previous total of 1,097.