Area profile · Rest of Qld
Central Highlands - West has an estimated 7,749 residents, up 1.7% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Central Highlands - West.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Central Highlands - West Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 656 kilometres northwest from Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, the population is approximately 7,749, compared with 7,616 people at the 2021 Census. This represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ABS ERP figure and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area combines strong outright home ownership and affordable housing options with above-average children per family, a notable mining employment base, elevated agricultural employment, and a pronounced proportion of residents aged 0 to 4yo.
Residents have a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 40, while educational attainment is typically lower. Population growth shows limited expansion. The region's picturesque plains and mesa formations accompany rich agricultural lands, crop production, and cattle farm communities. National parks support unique flora and fauna, and gemstone deposits contribute to its natural character.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Central Highlands - West Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 656 kilometres northwest from Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, the population is approximately 7,749, compared with 7,616 people at the 2021 Census. This represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ABS ERP figure and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area combines strong outright home ownership and affordable housing options with above-average children per family, a notable mining employment base, elevated agricultural employment, and a pronounced proportion of residents aged 0 to 4yo.
Residents have a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 40, while educational attainment is typically lower. Population growth shows limited expansion. The region's picturesque plains and mesa formations accompany rich agricultural lands, crop production, and cattle farm communities. National parks support unique flora and fauna, and gemstone deposits contribute to its natural character.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,056 in 2001 and 7,683 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,749 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 13.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.5%.
Central Highlands - West ranks in the 65th percentile nationally for health and the 63rd for income.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Central Highlands - West is $280 a week, up 8.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 56% below Regional Qld.
56% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $125 in 2017, $282 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $280 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $282 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $242 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Central Highlands (Qld) | $498 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Central Highlands (Qld), over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Central Queensland | $518 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Central Queensland, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Central Highlands - West (2 under construction) and 83 more in the surrounding area.
Safety upgrade to widen and rehabilitate about 2.5-2.6 km of the Capricorn Highway east of Emerald between Winton Creek and the Emerald Agricultural College. Scope included pavement widening and strengthening, wide centre line treatment, drainage works, sealing and line marking to improve safety and heavy vehicle operations.
The Valeria Coal Project was a proposed $1.5 billion greenfield open-cut mine designed to extract up to 20 million tonnes of thermal and metallurgical coal annually over a 35-year period. In December 2022, Glencore officially withdrew the project from the Queensland Government's 'Coordinated Project' assessment process and placed it under review.
Small-scale residential apartment development featuring 11 modern residential units across 2 floors in Emerald's Central Highlands region. The project represents a modest urban infill development providing additional housing options in this regional Queensland mining and agricultural service centre.
Approved major shopping centre and mixed-use development situated opposite Central Highlands Marketplace on an 11.45 hectare site. To be developed by Development Directive Pty Ltd, the proposed centre will feature a supermarket, 8 individual retail outlets, and 268 car parking spaces.
A 7 million AUD redevelopment of the 42-hectare Emerald Regional Botanic Gardens. The project features the construction of a new permanent, flood-resilient footbridge over the Nogoa River and extensive pathway upgrades to improve safety, connectivity, and accessibility for the community.
Intersection upgrade at the junction of Gregory and Capricorn Highways in Emerald, involving widening approaches, installing traffic signals, and improving turning lanes. The upgrade enhances safety and reduces congestion at this critical junction serving both local and through traffic. The project also included pedestrian infrastructure improvements.
Multi-package road upgrade program on the Capricorn Highway spanning approximately 170 kilometres between Emerald and Alpha in Central Queensland. Works include extensive pavement widening, safety barrier installations, new overtaking lanes, and intersection improvements to enhance freight efficiency and key freight corridor safety.
Multi-stage residential estate development by Central Highlands Regional Council featuring fully serviced residential lots in Emerald's sought-after Nogoa Rise area. The development has expanded to Stages 5 and 6, offering quality residential opportunities in the growing Central Highlands region.
A complete refurbishment and upgrade of the Emergency Department at Emerald Hospital that officially opened in April 2024. The upgrade improves patient flow and provides better access to care closer to home.
The Ensham Life of Mine Extension Project extends existing underground bord and pillar operations into the Aries and Castor coal seams, approximately 35km east of Emerald in Central Queensland.
The Blackwater South Coking Coal Project is a proposed greenfield open-cut metallurgical coal mine in the Bowen Basin, approximately 50 km south-west of Blackwater and 80 km south-east of Emerald, Queensland.
Completed in March 2025, this project delivered approximately 4.3km of safety improvements on the Capricorn Highway between Bonnie Doon Road and Corkscrew Creek. Key works included pavement widening, sealing, wide centre line treatments, audio tactile line marking, and improved drainage to enhance safety and freight efficiency.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 35 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 8, 2027 9, 2028 6, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 2, 2032 1, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 1. 31 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 10 | ABS building approvals | 19th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Central Highlands - West SA2 include: Codenwarra Road Mixed-Use Development Site (Approved); 91 Gray Street Apartment Development (Proposed); Emerald Regional Botanic Gardens Redevelopment (Construction); Nogoa Rise Estate Residential Development (Construction); and Ensham Coal Mine Life of Mine Extension (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Central Highlands - West SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Retail, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Central Highlands - West is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Central Highlands - West SA2 area has seen 19 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Central Highlands - West SA2's current population of 7,749 has been supported by 10 approvals on average over recent years.
The Central Highlands - West SA2 has seen 1.2 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.3 approvals in Regional Qld. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 828 people in the Central Highlands - West SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Central Highlands - West SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 10, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the Central Highlands - West SA2 has seen 48 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Central Highlands - West has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,749 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 0 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 4th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,616 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 133 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 41,551.25 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Central Highlands - West SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,749 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,683 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The central highlands - west sa2 has added approximately 133 people and shown a 1.75% increase from the 7,616 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Central Highlands - West SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (71.5%), Overseas migration (28.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 71.5% of overall population gains.
Central Highlands - West's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 20.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Central Highlands - West SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Central Highlands - West is 2 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) yet comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Central Highlands - West SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 13.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Central Highlands - West SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 9.5% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 20.5% of the population in the Central Highlands - West SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.6% of the population in the Central Highlands - West SA2 as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 63% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,694 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 71st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $78,428 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,620 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $882 | 2021 Census, weekly | 64th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 24.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,205 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is approximately $69,294. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,694.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is approximately $84,004. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $78,428.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is approximately $69,294 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,694 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is approximately $84,004 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $78,428 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Central Highlands - West SA2's households (~27.5% / 704 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.5% of households. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $1,620/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $2,205/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $882/wk.
The Central Highlands - West SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $64,694 and an average of $78,428 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is higher than average nationally, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $69,294 (median) and $84,004 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $6,547 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The central highlands - west sa2's disposable income is $6,547 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Central Highlands - West shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 71.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,199 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 8,492 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,312 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Central Highlands - West SA2 has approximately 4,199 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.6%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Central Highlands - West SA2 stands at 2.6%, which is 1.2 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (30.6% of employment), mining (20.6%), and construction (6.1%). These three sectors alone account for 57.3% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include education & training and health care & social assistance.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Central Highlands - West SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is 71.7%, 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 64.2%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The central highlands - west sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 30.6% of the local workforce compared to 4.5% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 6.8, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The central highlands - west sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 0.9% growth, ranking 20th out of 37 regions nationally.
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Central Highlands - West SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 14.0% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include education & training (6.0%), health care & social assistance (5.5%), and professional & technical (2.0%).
Educational outcomes in Central Highlands - West fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 43.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 15.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
13.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Central Highlands - West SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
43.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Central Highlands - West SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The central highlands - west sa2 ranks in the 25th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Central Highlands - West SA2 are: Certificate (34.3%), Bachelor Degree (10.4%), Advanced Diploma (9.1%).
32.5% of the population in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 15.5% in primary school, 9.4% in secondary school, 2.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is 971, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the Central Highlands - West SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 767 students.
The central highlands - west sa2 includes 11 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Central Highlands - West features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,559 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,604 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.1 per family | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Central Highlands - West SA2 had 2,559 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.8% to an estimated 2,604 households today.
The average household size in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.2%), group households (2.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,753 family households, couples with children account for 30.0% of all households, couples without children at home 31.3%, and single parent families 6.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Central Highlands - West SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Central Highlands - West SA2 have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 51.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.8% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 29.2% of all households in the Central Highlands - West SA2, similar to the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.3% of households, below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Central Highlands - West is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.3% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.7% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 90.1% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
Central Highlands - West was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 81.7% of its population being citizens, 90.1% born in Australia, and 96.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Central Highlands - West was found to be Christianity, which makes up 63.7% of people in Central Highlands - West. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Central Highlands - West are Australian, comprising 34.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 26.5%, English, comprising 31.1% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 5.4% of Central Highlands - West (vs 4.7% across Regional Qld), Maltese at 0.5% (vs 0.4%) and Australian Aboriginal at 3.0% (vs 3.9%).
9.9% of the Central Highlands - West SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
3.7% of the population in the Central Highlands - West SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
3.0% of the Central Highlands - West SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
81.7% of the Central Highlands - West SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Central Highlands - West is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.3% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 45.5% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 93.4% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $120 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 7.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 18.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Central Highlands - West SA2, 45.5% of homes are owned outright, 24.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 93.4% of dwellings in the Central Highlands - West SA2 are houses.
In the Central Highlands - West SA2, 1.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Central Highlands - West SA2 stands at 45.5%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is $472, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Central Highlands - West SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 18.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 7.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Central Highlands - West SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Central Highlands - West SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 18.5% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 7.4% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Central Highlands - West SA2 consists of 93.4% detached houses, 1.4% semi-detached dwellings, 1.0% apartments, and 4.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Central Highlands - West consumes approximately 6.7% of median household income ($7,015 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Central Highlands - West show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 7% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 93% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
The level of general health in Central Highlands - West is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.5% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
Around 56.5% of people in the Central Highlands - West SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Central Highlands - West SA2, 3.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
7.1% of people in the Central Highlands - West SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.0% of the Central Highlands - West SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the Central Highlands - West SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Central Highlands - West SA2, 56.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 10.7 km away and the nearest pharmacy 16.7 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 31 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 31st percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 10.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 16.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 21.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 27.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 35.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 38.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 51.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 53.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 55.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 56.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 56.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Central Highlands - West is built to order and emailed to you.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Central Highlands - West is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Central Highlands - West has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 45th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Central Highlands - West is $280 a week, +8.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Central Highlands - West has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Central Highlands - West's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 63% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
The employment environment in Central Highlands - West shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
Educational outcomes in Central Highlands - West fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
Central Highlands - West features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
Central Highlands - West is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Central Highlands - West is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
The level of general health in Central Highlands - West is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport in Central Highlands - West: transport access 10/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Central Highlands - West has an estimated 7,749 residents, up 1.7% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Central Highlands - West.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Central Highlands - West.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (308011191). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Central Highlands - West from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Central Highlands - West with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 10 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 10th percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 22.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
