Ross

SA2

Rest of NT / Alice Springs

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

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

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

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

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Ross

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Ross

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Ross has an estimated 3,147 residents, up from 2,706 at the 2021 Census — a change of 441 people, or 16.3%. Growth has averaged 1.7% a year over five years, faster than 87% of areas nationally. Interstate and internal migration accounts for 71.6% of that increase. Density is about 17 people per square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to the analysis by AreaSearch, the population of Ross is estimated to be 3,147 in May 2026. This represents a growth of 441 individuals (16.3%) from the 2,706 residents recorded during the 2021 Census. This population shift is calculated using the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 3,147 combined with 11 validated new addresses registered after the Census. The density stands at 16.5 persons per square kilometer, indicating a low-density environment with substantial space per inhabitant. The expansion rate of 16.3% since the 2021 census paced ahead of the national benchmark of 9.3% and the state average, positioning the locality as a regional growth leader.

The primary driver of this demographic expansion was interstate migration, which accounted for roughly 71.6% of the population increase over recent timeframes. For each SA2 region, AreaSearch utilizes projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia published in 2024, which use 2022 as their baseline year. In cases where specific SA2 regions lack this data, and to project demographic changes after 2032, growth rates categorized by age group from the latest Greater Capital Region projections (published by the ABS in 2023 using 2022 data) are applied. Looking at future demographic trends, regional Australian locations outside major cities are projected to see population growth above the median, with this specific locality expected to add 582 residents by 2041 relative to the latest annual ERP statistics, representing a total expansion of 18.5% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Ross SA2?
Total population for the Ross SA2 was estimated to be approximately 3,147 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,147 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Ross SA2 changed since 2021?
The ross sa2 has added approximately 441 people and shown a 16.30% increase from the 2,706 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Ross SA2?
The population density in the Ross SA2 is estimated at 16 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Ross SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Ross SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.9% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Ross SA2?
Population growth in the Ross SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (71.6%), Overseas migration (28.4%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 71.6% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Ross

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86 new dwellings have been approved in Ross over the past five years, an average of 17 a year. That places the area in the 50th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 5 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 8, well below that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Development approvals in Ross average approximately 17 residences annually, resulting in a total of 86 dwellings over the last 5 financial years. During FY-26, 8 approvals have been logged to date. An average of 3 individuals migrated to the district for every new residence built between FY-21 and FY-25, pointing to consistent demand that underpins property valuations, while the average expected construction cost for these new homes is $329,000. Furthermore, commercial development approvals representing $12.5 million have been registered during this financial year, demonstrating ongoing commercial investment in the locality.

Compared against Rest of NT, Ross displays 240.0% more building activity on a per-capita basis, offering prospective buyers a wide range of options despite a deceleration in construction pace in recent times. Modern completions are split evenly between detached houses at 50.0% and multi-dwelling options like apartments or townhouses at 50.0%. This emphasis on higher-density construction provides more economical entry points and caters to downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This is a clear departure from the historical housing stock (which stands at 73.0% houses), indicating a reduction in developable land parcels alongside changing lifestyle preferences and a demand for more varied, economical housing types. The ratio of 347 people in the region for every single residential approval highlights the calm, low-scale nature of the local building market. Based on the most recent quarterly estimates from AreaSearch, population projections indicate Ross will add 582 residents by 2041. Given the current pace of construction, residential supply is expected to align well with demand, maintaining positive conditions for buyers and potentially facilitating expansion that outpaces current projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Ross SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Ross SA2 area has seen 18 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Ross SA2's current population of 3,147 has been supported by 17 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Ross SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Ross SA2 has seen 0.57 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.18 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 347 people in the Ross SA2, compared to one for every 704 in the broader region.
Is the Ross SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 582 people by 2041, around 194 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Ross SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Ross SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 17, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Ross SA2?
The population in the Ross SA2 is expected to grow by 582 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 194 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Ross SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Ross SA2 has grown by approximately 838 people, while 86 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 9.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Ross SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 17 approvals per year and a population of 3,147, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 582 people by 2041, around 194 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Ross

Development applications around Ross

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Ross

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AreaSearch tracks 8 current infrastructure and development projects inside Ross, worth an estimated $85 million. A further 54 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $42.3 billion. 19 are already under construction and 22 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans transport & logistics, energy and residential development. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Changes to municipal infrastructure, major works, and urban planning policies are key drivers of local performance. AreaSearch has identified a total of 11 projects that are anticipated to influence the region. Notable initiatives include the Kilgariff Estate, the St Mary's Land Development, the Heavitree Gap Road Duplication Planning Study, and the Alice Springs Future Grid - Roadmap to 2030, with detailed profiles of the most significant works listed below.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Ross SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Ross SA2 include: Kilgariff Estate (Construction); St Mary's Land Development (Planning); Heavitree Gap Road Duplication Planning Study (Planning); Alice Springs Future Grid - Roadmap to 2030 (Completed); and Roger Vale Drive and Stuart Highway Safety Upgrades (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Ross SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Ross SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Communities, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Ross SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates significant investment of approximately $131 million in infrastructure projects affecting the region.
How does the Ross SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Ross SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 4thth percentile.
St Mary's Hostel Housing Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Northern Territory Government is developing the former St Mary's Hostel site in Alice Springs for up to 120 social housing dwellings while safeguarding the historic St Mary's Chapel and other culturally significant places connected with Stolen Generations history. The 2026 NT Budget provides an additional $12 million in 2026-27 to support a Housing Australia Future Fund application, in addition to earlier Commonwealth enabling infrastructure funding. Initial enabling works for power, water, sewerage, roads, site preparation and demolition are underway, with remediation expected to commence in 2026 and completion of enabling infrastructure targeted for mid-2027.A 2.51 hectare part of the site was provisionally declared as St Mary's, Alice Springs heritage place in February 2026.

Residential Development

Kilgariff Estate Residential Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Master planned residential estate approximately 9 km south of the Alice Springs CBD. Stage 1 is complete and occupied. Stage 2 is progressing through staged releases, with Stage 2B (Wattle Release) underway during 2026, providing additional serviced residential lots including single and multi-dwelling opportunities. Future plans include community facilities, commercial uses and potential education infrastructure.

Residential Development

Kilgariff Estate
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Kilgariff Estate is a master-planned residential suburb and greenfield development located south of Alice Springs, offering diverse housing options, open spaces, and future amenities. Stage 1 is fully completed and developed, while Stage 2 is delivering new residential land (including the Coolibah and Wattle releases) with ongoing civil works and lot sales to support regional population growth and the NT Government's housing initiatives.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Heavitree Gap Road Duplication Planning Study
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Long-term Northern Territory Government planning study investigating future duplication of the Stuart Highway through Heavitree Gap (Ntaripe). The study is developing concept designs that balance future traffic capacity with Aboriginal sacred sites, heritage values, environmental constraints, flood mitigation and active transport requirements. The project remains in the planning and consultation phase with no construction funding or delivery timetable announced.

Transport & Logistics

Alice Springs Future Grid - Roadmap to 2030
Category: Energy
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Three year whole of system initiative led by the Intyalheme Centre for Future Energy (a Desert Knowledge Australia project) to identify and remove barriers to achieving 50% renewable generation in Alice Springs by 2030. Concluded in 2024 with the Roadmap to 2030 and a suite of final reports after trials including a virtual power plant, an islandable microgrid at the Desert Knowledge Precinct, public housing solar and battery trial, and wind resource monitoring.

Energy

Roger Vale Drive and Stuart Highway Safety Upgrades
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Northern Territory Government planning study for safety upgrades at the Roger Vale Drive and Stuart Highway intersection south of Alice Springs. The proposed works include intersection realignment, channelised turning lanes, improved road train access, street lighting, drainage improvements, shared path provision to Alice Springs Airport and future signalisation. Community consultation has been completed and the project remains in the planning phase with no construction funding or delivery timeframe announced.

Transport & Logistics

Lasseters Hotel Casino Extension and Redevelopment
Category: Tourism
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

More than $200 million staged expansion and redevelopment of the Lasseters Hotel Casino precinct by Iris Capital. The project includes a new hotel with around 235 additional guest rooms, residential apartments, expanded casino and gaming areas, new bars and restaurants, rooftop bar, resort pools, entertainment facilities including bowling and cinema, childcare, gym, day spa and convention facility upgrades. Development approvals have been secured and staged construction is progressing.

Tourism

St Mary's Hostel Social and Affordable Housing Project
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of the historic 8.2-hectare St Mary's Hostel site to deliver approximately 120 social and affordable dwellings. The project is currently in the early works phase, with the NT Government's 2026 Budget allocating an additional $12 million for remediation and enabling infrastructure (power, water, and roads). Site preparation and demolition activities are underway as of early 2026, with remediation expected to commence mid-year. The development strictly preserves the heritage-listed St Mary's Chapel and its mural, serving as a focal point for the community and Stolen Generation survivors.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Ross

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2,088 residents of Ross are employed, from a labour force of 2,128. Unemployment sits at 1.9%, with participation at 80.4%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.6% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth, so in an area growing as fast as this one it understates the likely rise in local jobs. The working-day population is estimated at 2,558, about 81% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Ross features a qualified workforce with strong representation in critical service industries, an unemployment rate of only 1.9%, and an estimated job growth rate of 3.0% over the last year. In March 2026, employed residents numbered 2,088, while the unemployment rate remained 4.0% below the rate of 5.9% seen in Regional NT. Participation in the labor force is high at 80.4%, compared to 69.9% across Regional NT. Census data indicated that a minor portion of the workforce, 6.1%, worked from home, though this figure may have been influenced by pandemic-related lockdown measures.

The primary employment sectors for local residents are health care & social assistance, public administration & safety, and construction. The community displays a marked concentration in construction, where the employment share is 1.8 times the regional average. Conversely, the agriculture, forestry & fishing sector has minimal representation, employing just 1.1% of the local workforce compared to 5.0% in Regional NT. A comparison of the Census working population against the resident population suggests that local employment opportunities within the area are relatively scarce. According to AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, the year ending March 2026 saw employment expand by 3.0% and the workforce grow by 2.8%, leading to a 0.2 percentage point decline in the unemployment rate. Over the same timeframe in Regional NT, employment rose by 2.8%, the labor force grew by 2.7%, and the unemployment rate decreased slightly. National employment projections published in May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia provide context for future workforce requirements in Ross. These five and ten-year projections have been applied to the local workforce structure to model future growth. Nationally, employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though these rates vary by sector. Projecting these industry-specific rates onto the employment profile of Ross indicates a local employment expansion of 6.6% over five years and 13.6% over ten years, assuming a basic weighted calculation that does not incorporate local population forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Ross SA2?
As of March 2026, the Ross SA2 has approximately 2,088 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.9%. 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.
How does the Ross SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Ross SA2 stands at 1.9%, which is 4.0 percentage points below Regional NT's rate of 5.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Ross SA2?
The employment landscape in the Ross SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.3% of employment), public administration & safety (14.7%), and construction (11.5%). Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the Ross SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Ross SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional NT saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Ross SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Ross SA2 is 80.4%, 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 Regional NT average of 69.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Ross SA2's employment market?
The ross sa2 shows notable specialization in construction, which employs 11.5% of the local workforce compared to 6.5% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Ross SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Ross SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over the next five years and 13.6% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Ross SA2 compare nationally?
The ross 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 7.2% decline, ranking 32.0nd out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Ross SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Ross SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 33.9% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (17.3%), education & training (10.1%), and professional & technical (5.2%). With projected employment growth of 6.6% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Ross

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Median household income in Ross is $1,953 a week (about $102,000 a year), with median personal income at $948 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $66,254 a year against an average of $75,029. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

The most recent postcode data from the ATO for financial year 2023 shows that personal incomes in the Ross SA2 are significantly higher than the national median of $66,254 and average of $75,029. In comparison, Regional NT registered a median income of $53,572 and an average income of $63,776. Adjusted for a Wage Price Index increase of 9.41% since financial year 2023, current estimates for March 2026 stand at roughly $72,489 for the median and $82,089 for the average. Census data places household, family, and individual incomes in Ross around the 67th percentile nationwide.

Income brackets indicate that 30.9% of the local population (972 individuals) earn between $1,500 and $2,999, which is comparable to the wider region where 33.6% fall into the same category. Residents retain 94.7% of their income after meeting housing costs, showing substantial discretionary spending capacity, while the SEIFA index ranks the area in the 5th decile for income.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Ross SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Ross SA2 is approximately $72,489. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $66,254.
What is the average taxable income in the Ross SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Ross SA2 is approximately $82,089. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $75,029.
How does the median taxable income in the Ross SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Ross SA2 is approximately $72,489 compared to $58,613 in Regional NT. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $66,254 and $53,572 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Ross SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Ross SA2 is approximately $82,089 compared to $69,777 in Regional NT. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $75,029 and $63,776 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Ross SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.9% / 972 persons) of the Ross SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Ross SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Ross SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.9% of the population. In comparison, Regional NT's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.6% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Ross SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Ross SA2 is $1,953/wk.
What is the median family income in the Ross SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Ross SA2 is $2,401/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Ross SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Ross SA2 is $948/wk.
How does the Ross SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Ross SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $66,254 with the average level standing at $75,029. This is well above average nationally and compares to levels of $53,572 and $63,776 across Regional NT respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.41% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $72,489 (median) and $82,089 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Ross SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Ross SA2 is $8,011 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Ross SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The ross sa2's disposable income is $8,011 compared to $6,596 for Regional NT, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Ross

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Ross had 841 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 73% detached houses and 5% apartments. 36% are owned with a mortgage, 37% rented and 27% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $280 a week. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the latest Census data, residential properties in Ross consisted of 73.2% detached houses and 26.8% other formats (such as townhouses, apartments, or alternative structures), compared to 75.6% houses and 24.5% other dwellings in Regional NT. The rate of home ownership was notably high at 26.8% compared to Regional NT, while the remaining properties were mortgaged (35.9%) or rented (37.3%). The median monthly mortgage payment was recorded at $0, which is below the Regional NT average, while the median weekly rent was $280, compared to Regional NT averages of $1,733 and $150.

Locally, mortgage outlays are lower than the Australian median of $1,863, and weekly rents are also well below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Ross SA2?
In the Ross SA2, 26.8% of homes are owned outright, 35.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 37.3% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Ross SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 73.2% of dwellings in the Ross SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Ross SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Ross SA2, 5.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Ross SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Ross SA2 stands at 26.8%, compared to 14.5% in Regional NT.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Ross SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Ross SA2 is $0, compared to $1,733 in Regional NT.
What is the median weekly rent in the Ross SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Ross SA2 is $280, compared to $150 in Regional NT.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Ross SA2?
In the Ross SA2, 21.0% of rentals are $0-149/week, 48.5% are $150-349/week, 23.4% are $350-649/week, 6.1% are $650-949/week, and 1.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Ross SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Ross SA2 is $452, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Ross SA2?
In the Ross SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 0.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 14.3% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Ross SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Ross SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Ross SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Ross SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 0.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.4% regionally), while renters spend 14.3% of income on rent (vs 8.8% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Ross SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Ross SA2 consists of 73.2% detached houses, 7.8% semi-detached dwellings, 5.3% apartments, and 13.7% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Ross SA2?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $452. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $0/month, and renters paying $1,212/month.
How affordable is housing in the Ross SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Ross consumes approximately 5.3% of median household income ($8,456 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Ross SA2?
Recent development applications in Ross show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 27% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% of applications versus 73% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Ross

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Ross counted 841 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 978 today, averaging 2.5 people each. 29% are couples with children, against 27% couples without children. 29% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.7 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the majority of households at 68.5%, which includes 28.5% couples raising children, 27.3% couples without children, and 11.5% single-parent households. The remaining 31.5% consists of non-family households, where single-person households account for 28.9% and group living situations make up 3.1% of the total. The typical household size of 2.5 residents is lower than the Regional NT average of 3.1.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Ross SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Ross SA2 had 841 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.3% to an estimated 978 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Ross SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 3.1 in Regional NT and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 68.5% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (28.9%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 576 family households, 28.5% are couples with children, 27.3% are couples without children at home, and 11.5% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Ross SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NT, the Ross SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Ross SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, matching the Regional NT average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Ross SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 43.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.4% have never married. This compares to 40.9% married and 45.7% never married across Regional NT.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 28.9% of all households in the Ross SA2, similar to the regional average of 24.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.1% of households, well below the Regional NT average of 4.1%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Ross

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25.6% of adults in Ross hold a university qualification, including 16.8% with a bachelor degree and 5.6% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 77% of areas nationally. A further 27.3% hold a vocational qualification. 2 schools serve the area, with 322 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 823 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The local educational profile is distinct within the region, as university completion rates (25.6% of residents aged 15+) exceed the SA4 regional average of 20.1% and the Rest of NT rate of 20.1%, highlighting a strong local focus on tertiary education. Bachelor degrees are the most common credential at 16.8%, followed by postgraduate studies (5.6%) and graduate diplomas (3.2%). Vocational and technical training is also highly represented, with 35.2% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications, split between advanced diplomas (7.9%) and certificate courses (27.3%). Enrollment rates in education are high, with 31.6% of the population active in study.

Of these, 11.5% are attending primary school, 8.2% are in secondary school, and 4.9% are enrolled in tertiary programs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Ross SA2 have university qualifications?
25.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Ross SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.1% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Ross SA2 have no formal qualifications?
39.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Ross SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 49.7% regionally.
How does the Ross SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The ross sa2 ranks in the 23th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Ross SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Ross SA2 are: Certificate (27.3%), Bachelor Degree (16.8%), Advanced Diploma (7.9%).
What proportion of the Ross SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
31.6% of the population in the Ross SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.5% in primary school, 8.2% in secondary school, 4.9% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Ross SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Ross SA2 is 823, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Ross SA2?
There are 2 schools within the Ross SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 322 students.
What types of schools are available in the Ross SA2?
The ross sa2 includes 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Ross

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Ross

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Getting around Ross means driving: households keep an average of 1.6 vehicles, and scheduled services reach only a handful of stops. Service data is built from operators' published GTFS timetables; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of the public transport network shows 11 active bus stops operating in Ross. These stops are served by 2 distinct routes that provide a total of 54 passenger trips per week. Transport accessibility is considered low, with the average distance to the nearest stop being 2439 meters. Due to the residential nature of the area, most residents travel elsewhere for work, with private vehicles remaining the primary mode of transport at 91%, followed by walking at 6%. The average number of vehicles per household is 1.6, which is higher than the regional average.

A small proportion of residents, 6.1%, work from home, based on 2021 Census data which may reflect pandemic-era conditions. Service frequency averages 7 runs per day across the route network, which represents roughly 4 weekly trips for each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Ross?
There are 11 public transport stops within the Ross SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Ross?
the Ross SA2 has 54 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 7 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Ross?
On average, residential properties are 2439 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Ross

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71.5% of residents in Ross report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 75% of areas nationally. 7.1% need daily assistance with core activities, and 56.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.1 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

An analysis of mortality and chronic disease data by AreaSearch reveals that Ross faces notable health issues, with a clear presence of common medical conditions across multiple age cohorts, although the rate of private health insurance coverage is high at approximately 57% of the population (~1,781 people). This is higher than the coverage rate of 51.6% observed across Regional NT. The most prevalent health issues identified locally are arthritis and diabetes, affecting 6.4 and 6.3% of the population, respectively, while 71.5% of residents reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 78.4% in Regional NT.

Health indicators for the population under 65 are better than average. Residents aged 65 and over make up 17.9% of the population (562 people), which exceeds the 8.5% share in Regional NT. Health status for this older cohort presents challenges, with national rankings aligning generally with the wider population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Ross SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 56.6% of people in the Ross SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.6% in the broader region of Regional NT.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Ross SA2?
In the Ross SA2, 7.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 3.4% of people in Regional NT require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Ross SA2?
5.7% of people in the Ross SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 5.2% of the population across Regional NT is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Ross SA2?
Diabetes affects 6.3% of the the Ross SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 5.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Ross SA2?
3.4% of people in the Ross SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NT, 4.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Ross SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Ross SA2, 56.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NT sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.6%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Ross

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Ross is largely Australian-born, at 81.4% of residents, with 23.6% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (25.1%) and English (24.1%). 16.5% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Ross exhibits high cultural diversity, with overseas-born individuals making up 18.6% of the population and 23.6% of residents speaking a non-English language at home. Christianity is the primary religion, representing 51.1% of the local population. The most prominent religious overrepresentation is Judaism, which accounts for 0.3% of the community compared to 0.1% in Regional NT. Regarding ancestral backgrounds based on parents' birthplaces, the three largest groups in Ross are Australian at 25.1% of the population (higher than the regional average of 14.9%), English at 24.1% (higher than the regional average of 14.3%), and Australian Aboriginal at 16.5% (lower than the regional average of 43.6%).

Other ethnic cohorts show distinct levels of representation: German background stands at 4.3% in Ross (compared to 2.5% regionally), Filipino at 1.4% (compared to 1.4% regionally), and New Zealand at 0.7% (compared to 0.5% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Ross SA2?
Ross was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 18.6% of its population born overseas and 23.6% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the Ross SA2?
The main religion in Ross was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.1% of people in Ross. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.3% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional NT.
What are the top countries of origin in the Ross SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Ross are Australian, comprising 25.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 14.9%, English, comprising 24.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 14.3%, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 16.5% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 43.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 4.3% of Ross (vs 2.5% regionally), Filipino at 1.4% (vs 1.4%) and New Zealand at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
18.6% of the the Ross SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.9% regionally.
What percentage of the the Ross SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
23.6% of the population in the Ross SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 52.2% in the wider region.
How many people in the Ross SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
16.5% of the the Ross SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 43.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Ross SA2?
81.3% of the the Ross SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.5% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Ross

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The median resident of Ross is 41. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 27.0% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age in Ross is 41 years, which is older than the Regional NT median of 31 years and the national average of 38 years. The 65 - 74 age bracket is highly represented at 10.7% compared to Regional NT, while the 5 - 14 demographic is less common at 10.7%. Since 2021, the 15 to 24 age cohort has increased from 9.5% to 11.8% of the total population, and the 25 to 34 group rose from 13.9% to 15.2%. In contrast, the 45 to 54 cohort fell from 14.2% to 12.3%, and the 55 to 64 group declined from 15.4% to 14.2%.

Long-term forecasts for 2041 point to shifts in the local demographic makeup, with the 75 to 84 cohort projected to expand by 123 people (85%) from 145 to 269, while the 0 to 4 group is expected to grow by a modest 9% (15 people).

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Ross SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Ross SA2 is 41 years.
How does the Ross SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 41 years, Ross is 10 years older than the Regional NT average (31 years) and 3 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Ross SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Ross SA2 compared to the Regional NT region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Ross SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Ross SA2 compared to the Regional NT region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Ross SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional NT region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (2.6% vs 0.5%) and 75-84 year-olds (4.6% vs 2.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Ross SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Ross SA2 is 15.9%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Ross SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Ross SA2 is 17.9%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Ross

Data currency Refreshed

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

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

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jul 2026 last month all 8 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Jul 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

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

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 11 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (2,706 at the 2021 Census → 3,147 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

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

Property sales

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

Rents

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

Development & infrastructure

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

Employment & income

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

Education, transport & amenities

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

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

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

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (702011051). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Ross SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
Where does the data on this Ross page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments.
Is the Ross data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Jul 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas