Airlie - Whitsundays

SA2

Rest of Qld / Whitsunday

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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 Airlie - Whitsundays

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Airlie - Whitsundays has an estimated 16,635 residents, up from 14,523 at the 2021 Census — a change of 2,112 people, or 14.5%. Growth has averaged 2.5% a year over five years, faster than 83% of areas nationally. 352 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 64.7% of that increase. Density is about 55 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 Airlie - Whitsundays stands at approximately 16,635 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 2,112 people (14.5%) compared to the 14,523 residents recorded in the 2021 Census. This shift is estimated using the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 16,597 combined with 352 validated new addresses registered after the Census date. The population density is calculated at 54 persons per square kilometer, which indicates a low-density environment with substantial space per inhabitant. With a 14.5% growth rate since the 2021 census, Airlie - Whitsundays outpaced both the SA4 region (7.6%) and the Rest of Qld, establishing it as a primary driver of expansion in the area.

International migration was the chief contributor to these gains, accounting for roughly 64.7% of the total population increase recently, while other factors like interstate migration and natural increase also registered positive gains. Projections published by ABS/Geoscience Australia in 2024 using 2022 as the baseline are utilized by AreaSearch for each SA2 region. In instances where such data is unavailable or for periods after 2032, Queensland State Government projections from 2023 based on 2021 data are used instead. Because the state-level figures lack breakdowns by age bracket, AreaSearch distributes growth proportionally across age cohorts in alignment with 2023 ABS Greater Capital Region projections that used 2022 data. Looking ahead, the region is projected to experience a major population surge ranking in the top quartile of non-metropolitan zones across the nation, with an estimated addition of 5,285 residents by 2041 relative to the newest annual ERP figures, translating to an overall expansion of 31.5% across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Total population for the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 was estimated to be approximately 16,635 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 16,597 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 changed since 2021?
The airlie - whitsundays sa2 has added approximately 2,112 people and shown a 14.54% increase from the 14,523 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The population density in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is estimated at 54 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.5% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Population growth in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (64.7%), Natural increase (18.8%), Interstate migration (16.5%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 64.7% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Airlie - Whitsundays

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607 new dwellings have been approved in Airlie - Whitsundays over the past five years, an average of 121 a year. That places the area in the 91st percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 7 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 109 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 66% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 105, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Urban development in Airlie - Whitsundays has proceeded at an average rate of 121 residential building approvals annually, resulting in 607 new dwellings over the previous 5 financial years. During the current FY-26 period, 97 residential permits have been documented. With population growth adding 3.2 new residents per year for each home constructed during the 5 financial years from FY-21 to FY-25, new housing supply is failing to keep pace with demand, which tends to intensify buyer competition and drive up prices. The average expected construction cost for these new dwellings is $1,007,000, highlighting that developers are prioritizing high-end and premium property projects.

Furthermore, local business expansion is supported by $140.1 million in commercial construction approvals registered during the current financial year. Compared to the Rest of Qld, residential development approvals in Airlie - Whitsundays are moderately higher, running 17.0% above the regional per capita average over the 5 year period, which maintains choice for buyers and supports demand for existing real estate, even though construction activity has moderated lately. The composition of new builds features 66.0% detached houses and 34.0% multi-unit or attached residences, where an expanding selection of townhomes and units offers varied entry points ranging from houses for families to cheaper compact configurations. Having approximately 174 people for each building approval indicates that Airlie - Whitsundays is an expanding urban zone. Long-term growth forecasts indicate that Airlie - Whitsundays will welcome 5,247 additional inhabitants by 2041 based on the newest quarterly estimates from AreaSearch. The current rate of home building is in line with this projected growth, supporting a balanced property market without generating significant upward pressure on costs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 area has seen 190 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's current population of 16,635 has been supported by 121 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has seen 0.8 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.61 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 174 people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 5,247 people by 2041, around 1,749 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.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 121, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is expected to grow by 5,247 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 1,749 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has grown by approximately 8,405 people, while 607 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.8 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 121 approvals per year and a population of 16,635, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 5,247 people by 2041, around 1,749 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Airlie - Whitsundays

Development applications around Airlie - Whitsundays

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 Airlie - Whitsundays

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AreaSearch tracks 23 current infrastructure and development projects inside Airlie - Whitsundays, worth an estimated $1.9 billion. A further 68 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $36.9 billion. 31 are already under construction and 43 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans transport & logistics, residential development and environmental & disaster management. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local performance is highly influenced by planning initiatives, major infrastructure projects, and development works. AreaSearch has identified 28 projects that are expected to influence the local area. Notable works include the Shute Harbour Road Upgrade, the Whitsunday Cultural Arts Centre, the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct (Cannonvale), and the Airlie Beach Waterfront Revitalization, with the main projects of interest outlined below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 include: Shute Harbour Road Upgrade (Approved); Whitsunday Cultural Arts Centre (Planning); Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct (Cannonvale) (Planning); Airlie Beach Waterfront Revitalization (Construction); and Whitsunday Technology Innovation Hub (Proposed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 spans multiple sectors including Tourism, Health & Medical, and National Security, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $1.6 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 vicinity.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Whitsunday Community Health Centre Development
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Whitsunday Community Health Centre expansion provides enhanced healthcare services to the Whitsunday region. The facility includes specialist consulting suites, diagnostic imaging, and mental health services, supporting the growing population of Cannonvale and surrounding areas.

Health & Medical

Cannonvale Aquaculture Research Station
Category: Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Marine and fisheries research facility delivering infrastructure to support sustainable tropical aquaculture, fish breeding programs, and regional marine ecosystem monitoring. The station supports sustainable commercial fishing operations and environmental compliance across the Whitsunday region.

Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture

Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 95-hectare regional sports and recreation precinct in Cannonvale. Stage 1 is co-funded by the Federal Government and will deliver multi-purpose outdoor fields, indoor/outdoor courts, and club facilities for sports including netball, football, and touch. The master plan has been adopted with Stage 1 completion anticipated for late 2027.

Sports & Recreation

Proserpine - Shute Harbour Road Upgrades
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major staged upgrade of Proserpine - Shute Harbour Road including flood immunity improvements at Hamilton Plains and capacity upgrades between Paluma Road and Valley Drive in Cannonvale. Works include road widening, intersection upgrades, raised road levels, drainage improvements, larger culverts and improved facilities for active transport to improve safety, resilience and traffic capacity.

Transport & Logistics

Whitsunday Cultural Arts Centre
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

Proposed multi-purpose cultural facility for the Whitsunday region featuring performance spaces, art galleries, workshop areas, and community meeting spaces. Intended to showcase local artists and provide cultural programming for residents and tourists. No standalone public project of this name and value was located in council or state records; the Whitsunday region's confirmed nearby community/cultural capital works include the Proserpine Entertainment Centre rebuild (completed 2026) and the Cannonvale Community Hub (library and community facility, in planning).

Arts & Culture

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

A 1,882m2 multi-purpose facility including a modern library, customer service centre, meeting rooms, business and education spaces, and disaster resilience infrastructure. Construction commenced in early May 2026.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Cannonvale Business Park
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   

Proposed long-term mixed-use business and industrial precinct within the Carlo Drive industrial area at Cannonvale. The concept is intended to support employment growth through light industrial, warehouse, office, trade, service commercial and supporting business uses. No confirmed master developer or active major development approval for a unified business park has been identified, with the area continuing to develop through individual industrial land releases and private development applications.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Proserpine Waste Water Treatment Facility Upgrade
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Upgrade of the Proserpine Waste Water Treatment Facility to include state of the art technology and reuse of treated effluent in the surrounding and adjacent agricultural areas, significantly reducing environmental impact on the Great Barrier Reef.

Environmental & Disaster Management

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Airlie - Whitsundays

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10,648 residents of Airlie - Whitsundays are employed, from a labour force of 10,879. Unemployment sits at 2.1%, with participation at 76.6%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.7% 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. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local labor force in Airlie - Whitsundays is highly capable, with a strong presence in tourism and hospitality, a low unemployment rate of 2.1%, and a yearly job growth estimate of 5.1%. By March 2026, employed residents numbered 10,648, with a jobless rate that sits 1.8% lower than the 3.9% recorded in Regional Qld, and the participation rate is exceptionally high at 76.6% compared to the 64.3% regional benchmark. According to Census data, just 8.3% of the workforce operated from home, though these figures may reflect the influence of Covid-19 restrictions at the time.

Most local workers are employed in accommodation & food, retail trade, and construction. Accommodation & food is the most highly specialized sector in the district, representing a share of employment that is 3.7 times the regional baseline. Conversely, health care & social assistance makes up only 6.6% of jobs locally, which is lower than the 16.1% average in Regional Qld. Although jobs are available locally, comparisons between the Census workforce count and the overall population suggest a notable portion of residents travel outside the area for employment. Analysis of SALM and ABS data by AreaSearch indicates that employment rose by 5.1% over the 12 months to March 2026, whereas the labour force grew by 5.8%, leading to a 0.7 percentage point increase in the unemployment rate. In contrast, Regional Qld experienced a 0.1% rise in employment, a 0.3% expansion in the labour force, and a 0.1 percentage point increase in unemployment. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 provide additional context regarding potential future demand within Airlie - Whitsundays. These forecasts span five and ten-year periods and have been aligned with the local employment profile to project growth trends. National employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, although growth varies considerably across industry sectors. When these sector-specific projections are applied to Airlie - Whitsundays's employment composition, the area is expected to see a 5.7% increase in employment over five years and an 11.9% increase over ten years. This estimation relies on a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not incorporate localized population projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
As of March 2026, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has approximately 10,648 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.1%. 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 stands at 2.1%, which is 1.8 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The employment landscape in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (30.3% of employment), retail trade (8.8%), and construction (8.7%). Other significant employers include transport, postal & warehousing and health care & social assistance.
How has employment changed recently in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 76.6%, 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 Qld average of 64.3%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's employment market?
The airlie - whitsundays sa2 shows notable specialization in accommodation & food, which employs 30.3% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.7, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.7% over the next five years and 11.9% 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare nationally?
The airlie - whitsundays 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 2.9% decline, ranking 25.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 16.2% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (6.6%), education & training (4.6%), and professional & technical (3.5%). With projected employment growth of 5.7% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Median household income in Airlie - Whitsundays is $1,674 a week (about $87,000 a year), with median personal income at $898 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $52,089 a year against an average of $67,340. 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

Recent postcode ATO data for the financial year 2023 shows that individual incomes in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are close to the Australian average, with a median of $52,089 and an average of $67,340. For comparison, Regional Qld recorded a median income of $53,146 and an average of $66,593. Factoring in a Wage Price Index increase of 11.36% since the financial year 2023, estimated figures for March 2026 are $58,006 for the median and $74,990 for the average. In the 2021 Census, individual weekly income was at the 66th percentile ($898 weekly), while household income was at the 45th percentile.

The dominant household income bracket is $1,500 - 2,999, accounting for 36.0% of households (5,988 people), which is similar to the wider region where this bracket makes up 31.7%. Home budget pressure is high, with residents retaining 82.7% of their income, which puts the area in the 45th percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is approximately $58,006. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $52,089.
What is the average taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is approximately $74,990. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $67,340.
How does the median taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is approximately $58,006 compared to $59,183 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $52,089 and $53,146 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is approximately $74,990 compared to $74,158 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $67,340 and $66,593 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~36.0% / 5,988 persons) of the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.0% of the population. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $1,674/wk.
What is the median family income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $1,990/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $898/wk.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $52,089 with the average level standing at $67,340. This is in line with the national averages and compares to levels of $53,146 and $66,593 across Regional Qld respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $58,006 (median) and $74,990 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $5,998 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The airlie - whitsundays sa2's disposable income is $5,998 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Airlie - Whitsundays had 4,558 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 65% detached houses and 22% apartments. 35% are owned with a mortgage, 41% rented and 25% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $370 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,733 a month. Rent absorbs 22.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 23.9%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to Census statistics, residential dwellings in Airlie - Whitsundays consist of 64.5% standalone houses and 35.6% alternative housing types, such as apartments and semi-detached properties, whereas Regional Qld has 76.4% houses and 23.6% alternative structures. Fully owned homes represent 24.5% of properties, which is below the rate in Regional Qld, with the remaining residences being paid off via a mortgage (34.9%) or occupied by tenants (40.6%). Median mortgage payments stand at $1,733 per month, which exceeds the Regional Qld average of $1,655, while the median weekly rental cost is $370, compared to $345 regionally.

When looked at from a national level, monthly mortgage costs in Airlie - Whitsundays are lower than the Australian median of $1,863, and weekly rents are also below the national average of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, 24.5% of homes are owned outright, 34.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 40.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 64.5% of dwellings in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, 21.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 10.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 stands at 24.5%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
What is the median weekly rent in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $370, compared to $345 in Regional Qld.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, 4.0% of rentals are $0-149/week, 37.5% are $150-349/week, 54.2% are $350-649/week, 3.9% are $650-949/week, and 0.5% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is $1,255, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.9% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% regionally), while renters spend 22.1% of income on rent (vs 22.9% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 consists of 64.5% detached houses, 10.8% semi-detached dwellings, 21.5% apartments, and 3.3% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Given the tenure profile of the area, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,255. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,733/month, and renters paying $1,602/month.
How affordable is housing in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Airlie - Whitsundays consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($7,248 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 Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Recent development applications in Airlie - Whitsundays show attached dwellings contributing 13% of approvals compared to 36% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 87% of applications versus 64% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Airlie - Whitsundays counted 4,558 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 5,221 today, averaging 2.4 people each. 25% are couples with children, against 31% couples without children. 27% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.2 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The majority of households in the area are families at 66.8%, which includes 25.0% couples raising children, 30.8% couples without kids, and 10.2% single-parent households. Single-person dwellings and shared arrangements make up the remaining 33.2% of homes, with solo residents accounting for 26.6% and group housing making up 6.6%. The typical household size is 2.4 persons, which is slightly smaller than the Regional Qld median of 2.5.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 had 4,558 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.5% to an estimated 5,221 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 66.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (26.6%), group households (6.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,044 family households, 25.0% are couples with children, 30.8% are couples without children at home, and 10.2% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Qld, the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 35.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 47.9% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 26.6% of all households in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, similar to the regional average of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 6.6% of households, well below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Airlie - Whitsundays

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21.1% of adults in Airlie - Whitsundays hold a university qualification, including 16.3% with a bachelor degree and 3.2% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 33.8% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 1,132 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,018 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

Formal qualification levels in Airlie - Whitsundays are lower than national averages, with 21.1% of residents aged 15+ holding a higher education degree compared to 30.4% across the country. Among these degree holders, bachelor qualifications are the most common at 16.3%, with postgraduate degrees at 3.2% and graduate diplomas at 1.6%. In contrast, vocational and practical education is highly represented, with 47.8% of the population aged 15+ holding trade credentials, comprising advanced diplomas (14.0%) and certificates (33.8%). A significant share of the population is engaged in learning, with 30.2% of residents currently attending an educational institution.

This enrollment consists of 11.7% of the community in primary school, 8.1% in high school, and 3.4% in university or vocational training programs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have university qualifications?
21.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have no formal qualifications?
31.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% regionally.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The airlie - whitsundays sa2 ranks in the 59th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are: Certificate (33.8%), Bachelor Degree (16.3%), Advanced Diploma (14.0%).
What proportion of the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
30.2% of the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.7% in primary school, 8.1% in secondary school, 3.4% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 1018, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
There are 4 schools within the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,132 students.
What types of schools are available in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The airlie - whitsundays sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Airlie - Whitsundays

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Public transport in Airlie - Whitsundays reaches 67 stops on 2 routes, timetabled for about 680 services a week. The typical home sits about 460 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.3 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport networks in Airlie - Whitsundays include 67 operational bus stops. These stops are connected to 2 routes, which support a total of 679 passenger journeys each week. Local access to transport services is moderate, with residents living an average of 464 meters away from their closest stop. Because the region is mostly residential, the majority of workers commute outside the area, with private cars being the primary mode of travel for 70% of people, and 16% traveling by foot. Household vehicle ownership stands at 1.3 cars, which is below the regional norm.

According to the 2021 Census, a modest 8.3% of residents worked from home, which could be related to conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The local transit network runs an average of 97 services daily across all active routes, which averages out to approximately 10 weekly departures for each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Airlie - Whitsundays?
There are 67 public transport stops within the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Airlie - Whitsundays?
the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 has 679 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 97 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Airlie - Whitsundays?
On average, residential properties are 464 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Airlie - Whitsundays

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76.7% of residents in Airlie - Whitsundays report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 86% of areas nationally. 2.9% need daily assistance with core activities, and 52.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 4.1 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health profiles for Airlie - Whitsundays show very positive trends, with AreaSearch's analysis of local mortality and long-term illness demonstrating exceptionally low rates of major health conditions across every age bracket. Furthermore, the proportion of residents with private health insurance coverage is slightly above the national SA2 average, standing at approximately 53% of the population, which equals about 8,750 individuals. The most frequently reported medical diagnoses among locals are mental health conditions and asthma, which affect 7.2% and 6.3% of the community, respectively. Meanwhile, 76.7% of residents reported having no long-term illnesses, compared to 67.6% across Regional Qld.

Inhabitants under the age of 65 experience health outcomes that are better than typical. Individuals aged 65 and older represent 12.2% of the local population (2,029 people), which is lower than the Regional Qld average of 20.4%. The health metrics for these older residents are very favorable, aligning closely with national averages for the broader population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 52.6% of people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.5% in the broader region of Regional Qld.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, 2.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
6.3% of people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Diabetes affects 2.4% of the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
2.5% of people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Qld, 4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2, 52.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.5%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Airlie - Whitsundays

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25.8% of Airlie - Whitsundays residents were born overseas and 10.2% speak a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (32.2%) and Australian (25.2%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The community displays a high degree of cultural diversity, with 25.8% of residents born outside Australia and 10.2% using a non-English language at home. Christianity is the dominant religious affiliation, representing 39.3% of the population. The most distinct variance in local religious distribution is Judaism, which accounts for 0.1% of the population compared to 0.1% throughout Regional Qld. When analyzing ancestral heritage, the three most common backgrounds reported in the area are English at 32.2%, Australian at 25.2%, and Irish at 8.2%. The local community also shows distinct differences compared to regional proportions for other ancestral origins, with New Zealand heritage representing 1.2% of the population (compared to 0.9% in the wider region), Spanish heritage at 0.8% (compared to 0.3%), and French heritage at 0.7% (compared to 0.5%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
Airlie - Whitsundays was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 10.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 25.8% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The main religion in Airlie - Whitsundays was found to be Christianity, which makes up 39.3% of people in Airlie - Whitsundays. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.1% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional Qld.
What are the top countries of origin in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Airlie - Whitsundays are English, comprising 32.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.2% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.2% of Airlie - Whitsundays (vs 0.9% regionally), Spanish at 0.8% (vs 0.3%) and French at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
25.8% of the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% regionally.
What percentage of the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
10.2% of the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
2.0% of the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
75.1% of the the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Airlie - Whitsundays

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The median resident of Airlie - Whitsundays is 35. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 34.0% 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

With a median age of 35, the population of Airlie - Whitsundays is younger than both the Regional Qld average of 41 and the national median of 38. The region has a high concentration of residents aged 25 - 34, who make up 22.1% of the local population compared to the national rate of 14.6%, while residents aged 75 - 84 are less common at 3.4%. Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents in the 25 to 34 age range rose from 19.5% to 22.1%, whereas the 45 to 54 cohort fell from 13.7% to 12.1%, and children aged 5 to 14 decreased from 10.6% to 9.3%.

Projections for the year 2041 indicate a continuing demographic shift, with the 25 to 34 group expected to grow by 46% (an increase of 1,679 people) to reach 5,348, up from 3,668. In comparison, the 15 to 24 age bracket is projected to experience a smaller 5% increase, adding 91 residents.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 35 years.
How does the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 35 years, Airlie - Whitsundays is 6 years younger than the Regional Qld average (41 years) and 3 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 22.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 3.4% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional Qld region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (22.1% vs 12.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.6% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (3.4% vs 7.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 14.4%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Airlie - Whitsundays SA2 is 12.2%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Airlie - Whitsundays

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 Aug 2026 this month all 23 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 Aug 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 — 352 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (14,523 at the 2021 Census → 16,635 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 (312031359). 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 Airlie - Whitsundays 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 Airlie - Whitsundays 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 Airlie - Whitsundays 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 (Aug 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