Sheldon - Mount Cotton

SA2

Greater Brisbane / Cleveland - Stradbroke

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Sheldon - Mount Cotton has an estimated 8,742 residents, up from 8,357 at the 2021 Census — a change of 385 people, or 4.6%. Growth has averaged 0.7% a year over five years. That puts 134 residents on each 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton is estimated to be approximately 8,742 as of May 2026. This indicates a growth of 385 residents (4.6%) from the 8,357 individuals recorded during the 2021 Census. This population shift is calculated using the ABS estimated resident population of 8,742 from June 2025 alongside address verification data collected since the census. The population density stands at 134 persons per square kilometer, which represents a low density that offers substantial space per resident and opportunities for future expansion.

The primary contributor to these recent population gains was natural increase, which accounted for roughly 61.1% of the overall growth. AreaSearch utilizes projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for each SA2 region, which were published in 2024 using 2022 as the baseline year. For SA2 territories where this dataset is unavailable, as well as for all projections beyond 2032, figures from the Queensland State Government's SA2 projections (released in 2023 with 2021 baseline data) are implemented. Because these state-level projections lack age breakdown details, AreaSearch allocates growth weightings across age groups based on the 2023 ABS Greater Capital Region projections (using 2022 baseline data). Looking forward, the area is projected to experience growth in line with the bottom national quartile, with the population forecast to rise by 127 residents to 2041 based on the most recent annual ERP statistics, representing a long-term growth rate of 1.4% over 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Total population for the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,742 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,742 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 changed since 2021?
The sheldon - mount cotton sa2 has added approximately 385 people and shown a 4.61% increase from the 8,357 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The population density in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is estimated at 134 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Population growth in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (61.1%), Overseas migration (38.9%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 61.1% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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53 new dwellings have been approved in Sheldon - Mount Cotton over the past five years, an average of 10 a year. That is 1.2 approvals per 1,000 residents. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 14, running ahead of 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

Approximately 10 residential building approvals are granted annually in Sheldon - Mount Cotton, with a total of 53 homes authorized over the five financial years from FY-21 to FY-25, and an additional 13 approved during FY-26 so far. Over the five financial years between FY-21 and FY-25, the local population increased by approximately 6 residents for every new dwelling constructed, showing that construction levels are falling behind local demand, which typically intensifies buyer competition and drives upward pressure on prices. Newly built properties have an average estimated construction cost of $395,000, which is higher than the regional average and points to a focus on higher-end development.

Meanwhile, commercial development remains minimal, with only $4.2 million in commercial approvals recorded for the current financial year. Residential building activity in Sheldon - Mount Cotton is significantly constrained compared to the wider region, running 87.0% below the Greater Brisbane per-capita average. This limited addition of new housing stock tends to bolster the value and demand for established homes. The rate of construction is also low on a national scale, reflecting the established status of the locality and suggesting the presence of planning restrictions. Recent additions to the housing stock have consisted entirely of detached houses, maintaining the low-density character of the suburb and appealing to buyers seeking larger properties. The quiet nature of local development is highlighted by a ratio of 1060 residents for every single dwelling approval. Based on the most recent quarterly estimate from AreaSearch, the population of Sheldon - Mount Cotton is projected to grow by 127 residents by 2041. Under current rate of construction, the supply of new housing is expected to be sufficient to satisfy this projected demand, which should support buyers while also leaving room for growth to outpace current projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 area has seen 17 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's current population of 8,742 has been supported by 10 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has seen 0.12 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.79 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 1060 people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, compared to one for every 143 in the broader region.
Is the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 127 people by 2041, around 43 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 10, showing stable development patterns.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is expected to grow by 127 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 43 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has grown by approximately 4,350 people, while 53 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 82.1 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 10 approvals per year and a population of 8,742, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 127 people by 2041, around 43 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Sheldon - Mount Cotton

Development applications around Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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AreaSearch tracks 5 current infrastructure and development projects inside Sheldon - Mount Cotton, worth an estimated $589 million. A further 70 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $15.2 billion. 28 are already under construction and 26 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Changes to local infrastructure, major developments, and council planning schemes are primary drivers of neighborhood change. AreaSearch has identified a total of 16 projects that are expected to influence the local area. Prominent developments include the Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct, the Birkdale Community Precinct, the Redland Whitewater Centre, and the Edge 521 Townhouses, with the most significant projects listed below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 include: Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct (Under Assessment); Birkdale Community Precinct (Planning); Redland Whitewater Centre (Under Assessment); Edge 521 Townhouses (Completed); and Logan Hyperdome Shopping Centre (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Sports & Recreation, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $9.5 billion in projects that will impact the extended area.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 shows moderate infrastructure development relative to national averages, with opportunities for future growth and investment.
Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Council-led regional sport and recreation precinct at Mount Cotton. The revised master plan includes 13 touch football fields, three rugby league fields, two clubhouses, about 800 car parks, a trailhead and future recreation spaces, while retaining about 80 percent of the 159 hectare site as natural area. Council endorsed a Significant Contracting Plan for staged delivery in December 2024, with Heinemann Road upgrade works identified as the first works package while the main precinct continues through EPBC assessment.

Sports & Recreation

Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Council-led regional sport and recreation precinct on a 159 hectare Mount Cotton site, planned to address Redlands Coast sporting land shortages while protecting major natural habitat areas. The revised master plan prioritises 13 touch football fields, three rugby league fields, two clubhouses, about 800 car parks and future recreation areas for play, pump tracks and picnicking, with about 80 percent of the site retained as natural area. The project remains paused pending completion of the Federal EPBC Act assessment.Council submitted draft preliminary documentation in 2024, dissolved the Alder Constructions Stage 1 construction contract in December 2024, and in August 2025 adopted an advocacy plan seeking faster Federal progress on assessment and offset issues. Heinemann Road upgrades are planned separately outside the EPBC referral area.

Sports & Recreation

Birkdale Community Precinct
Category: Communities
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2035
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 62-hectare intergenerational community precinct on former Commonwealth land in Birkdale, delivering one of Queensland's largest public parks over 20 years. Seven themed hubs include a Cultural Hub, Willards Farm Food Hub (1870s heritage farmhouse, now fully restored and preparing to open to the public), Innovation Hub, Entertainment Hub, WWII Radio Receiving Station heritage site, Recreation and Adventure Sports Hub, and a 39-hectare Conservation Management Area with koala habitat and walking trails. The precinct will also host the Redland Whitewater Centre, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Canoe Slalom venue, funded by the Australian and Queensland governments and anticipated to be open by 2028.A swimming lagoon, adventure playground, and permanent outdoor stage are also planned. The Queensland Government committed $235 million to the whitewater centre via the March 2025 Brisbane 2032 Delivery Plan, with a design EOI released in December 2025. The EPBC referral process under the Australian Government's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 is underway; no construction beyond heritage works will proceed until determined.

Communities

Mount Cotton Central
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A new neighbourhood shopping centre in Mount Cotton, Queensland. The center is anchored by a full-line Woolworths supermarket and features specialty retail, a medical centre, gym, childcare, and food & beverage tenancies. It is now open.

Retail

Edge 521 Townhouses
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2021
Source / Links: Link 1   

Boutique development of 13 high-quality two-storey townhouses developed by Redland Investment Corporation on 3,559sqm site backing onto 16,650sqm of nature reserve. Features modern design, quality finishes and environmental rehabilitation of conservation area providing improved koala habitat.

Residential Development

Redland Whitewater Centre
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

An Olympic-standard whitewater facility located within the 62-hectare Birkdale Community Precinct. The venue will host Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross for the Brisbane 2032 Games and serve as a year-round hub for athlete training, swift-water rescue drills for emergency services, and community recreation. It features an international-standard competition channel, a warm-up zone, and temporary seating for up to 8,000 spectators.

Sports & Recreation

Weinam Creek Priority Development Area
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 42-hectare waterfront redevelopment at Redland Bay, comprising 36 hectares of land and approximately 6 hectares of Moreton Bay Marine Park. The Priority Development Area was declared in June 2013 to reinforce Weinam Creek as a regional gateway to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands of Macleay, Lamb, Karragarra and Russell. Stage 1 works are complete, including a new recreational boat ramp opened in November 2024 and over 260 temporary car parking spaces delivered across new facilities on Banana Street and Hamilton Street in late 2024.Following Redland City Council's December 2025 decision not to extend the Memorandum of Understanding with the preferred development partner Consolidated Properties Group, the Council resolved in February 2026 to transfer land to the Queensland Government. Economic Development Queensland is now leading delivery of the multi-storey car park as a fast-tracked, standalone priority, with design, planning approval and construction contracting well advanced. The original master plan including retail, medical, grocery and foreshore precinct elements remains in place but is under review.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Logan Hyperdome Shopping Centre
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major regional shopping centre expansion and renovation including new retail spaces, dining precincts, entertainment facilities and improved parking. One of Logan's largest retail and commercial developments.

Retail

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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5,575 residents of Sheldon - Mount Cotton are employed, from a labour force of 5,661. Unemployment sits at 1.5%, with participation at 83.2%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.2% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 7,124, about 82% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Sheldon Mount Cotton boasts a competent labor pool where the building industry stands out for its strong presence, boasting an unemployment rate of only 1.5% alongside a projected employment increase of 4.0% during the previous year. By March 2026, there were 5,575 people employed, and the local jobless rate sits at 2.8%, which falls short of Greater Brisbane's 4.3% figure. Participation levels also exceed the norm at 83.2%, while Greater Brisbane records a 70.4% rate. Census data indicates that 20.3% of inhabitants engage in remote work, although the lingering effects of Covid-19 lockdowns warrant consideration.

The primary employment sectors for local residents are construction, health care & social assistance, and education & training. The construction industry is a major local specialty, employing workers at a rate 1.7 times higher than the Greater Brisbane average. Conversely, health care & social assistance plays a smaller role locally, accounting for 13.0% of jobs compared to the regional share of 16.1%. A comparison of the local working population against the total number of employed residents indicates that the area offers relatively few local jobs. An analysis of SALM and ABS statistics by AreaSearch shows that over the 12-month period, local employment expanded by 4.0% and the overall labor force grew by 4.1%, leaving the rate of unemployment virtually unchanged. In comparison, Greater Brisbane recorded a 3.2% rise in employment, a 3.4% increase in the labor force, and a 0.1 percentage point increase in unemployment. Future employment demand in Sheldon - Mount Cotton can be contextualized using the national forecasts published by Jobs and Skills Australia in May-25. These five and ten-year forecasts have been applied to the local workforce profile to model future growth. While total national employment is projected to rise by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, trends vary widely by industry. Applying these sectoral projections to the current workforce mix in Sheldon - Mount Cotton indicates that local employment would grow by 6.2% over five years and 13.0% over ten years, assuming a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes without factoring in local population projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
As of March 2026, the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has approximately 5,575 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.5%. 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 stands at 1.5%, which is 2.8 percentage points below Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.3%. 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The employment landscape in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (14.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.0%), and education & training (11.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and manufacturing.
How has employment changed recently in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 83.2%, 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 Greater Brisbane average of 70.4%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's employment market?
The sheldon - mount cotton sa2 shows notable specialization in construction, which employs 14.9% of the local workforce compared to 9.0% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.2% over the next five years and 13.0% 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare nationally?
The sheldon - mount cotton 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 4.6% decline, ranking 28.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 34.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (13.0%), education & training (11.1%), and professional & technical (6.7%). With projected employment growth of 6.2% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Median household income in Sheldon - Mount Cotton is $2,637 a week (about $137,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,050 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $58,442 a year against an average of $69,730. 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

According to the ATO postcode data released for the 2023 financial year, taxpayers in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 recorded a median income of $58,442 and an average income of $69,730. This is slightly above the national baseline and compares to a median of $58,236 and an average of $72,799 across Greater Brisbane. Adjusting these figures for the 11.36% increase in the Wage Price Index since the 2023 financial year yields estimated current figures of approximately $65,081 for median income and $77,651 for average income as of March 2026.

The 2021 Census highlights that family, household, and individual incomes in Sheldon - Mount Cotton are high, placing the area between the 82nd and 93rd percentiles nationwide. The largest income bracket is the $1,500 - 2,999 range, which accounts for 36.3% of residents (3,173 people), compared to 33.3% across the broader metropolitan area. High household earnings are common, with 40.5% of households earning more than $3,000 weekly, which supports local retail spending. Housing costs consume 13.9% of income, and strong household earnings place the area in the 93rd percentile for disposable income, with the SEIFA index ranking the area in the 8th decile for income.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is approximately $65,081. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $58,442.
What is the average taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is approximately $77,651. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $69,730.
How does the median taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is approximately $65,081 compared to $64,852 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $58,442 and $58,236 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is approximately $77,651 compared to $81,069 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $69,730 and $72,799 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~36.3% / 3,173 persons) of the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.3% of the population. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $2,637/wk.
What is the median family income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $2,687/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $1,050/wk.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is just above the national average, with the median assessed at $58,442 while the average income stands at $69,730. This contrasts to Greater Brisbane's figures of a median income of $58,236 and an average income of $72,799. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $65,081 (median) and $77,651 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $9,844 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The sheldon - mount cotton sa2's disposable income is $9,844 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Sheldon - Mount Cotton had 2,607 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 99% detached houses and 0% apartments. 63% are owned with a mortgage, 11% rented and 27% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $475 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,167 a month, a total housing cost higher than 86% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 18.0% of household income here and mortgage repayments 19.0%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the latest Census, the housing mix in Sheldon - Mount Cotton consisted of 99.4% detached houses and 0.6% semi-detached, apartment, or other dwelling types, whereas the wider Brisbane metropolitan area recorded 73.5% detached houses and 26.5% other dwelling types. The home ownership rate was identical to the Brisbane metro average of 26.5%, with the remaining properties being held with a mortgage (62.7%) or occupied by tenants (10.9%). The median mortgage payment in the area was $2,167 per month, which is higher than the Brisbane metro average of $1,863, while the median weekly rent was $475, compared to $380 in Greater Brisbane.

Nationally, Sheldon - Mount Cotton's median mortgage costs exceed the Australian average of $1,863, and median rents are higher than the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, 26.5% of homes are owned outright, 62.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 10.9% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 99.4% of dwellings in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, 0.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 stands at 26.5%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $2,167, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median weekly rent in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $475, compared to $380 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, 2.2% of rentals are $0-149/week, 9.4% are $150-349/week, 82.2% are $350-649/week, 6.2% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is $1,583, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 19.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.0% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 19.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% regionally), while renters spend 18.0% of income on rent (vs 20.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 consists of 99.4% detached houses, 0.2% semi-detached dwellings, 0.4% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,583. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,167/month, and renters paying $2,057/month.
How affordable is housing in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Sheldon - Mount Cotton consumes approximately 13.9% of median household income ($11,418 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Recent development applications in Sheldon - Mount Cotton show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 1% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 99% 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.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Sheldon - Mount Cotton counted 2,607 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 3.1 people each. 52% are couples with children, more than in 96% of areas nationally, against 28% couples without children. 9% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up the vast majority of households at 89.6%, consisting of couples with children at 52.3%, couples without children at 27.9%, and single parent families at 8.9%. Non-family households account for the remaining 10.4% of homes, which includes lone person households at 9.0% and group houses at 1.5%. The median size of local households is 3.1 residents, which is larger than the Greater Brisbane average of 2.6 residents.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 had 2,607 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.6% to an estimated 2,727 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 3.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 89.6% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (9.0%), group households (1.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 2,335 family households, 52.3% are couples with children, 27.9% are couples without children at home, and 8.9% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 89.6% (versus 71.7% regionally). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 9.0% compared to the regional 23.6%. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 59.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.5% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 9.0% of all households in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, notably lower than the regional average of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.5% of households, well below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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23.4% of adults in Sheldon - Mount Cotton hold a university qualification, including 16.5% with a bachelor degree and 4.4% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 83% of areas nationally. A further 29.0% hold a vocational qualification. 2 schools serve the area, with 2,070 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,087 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The proportion of residents with tertiary qualifications in Sheldon - Mount Cotton is lower than the regional average, with 23.4% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane, suggesting opportunities for educational growth. Among university graduates, bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 16.5%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 4.4% and graduate diplomas at 2.5%. Vocational and technical training is highly prevalent, with 42.8% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications in these fields, consisting of advanced diplomas at 13.8% and certificate level qualifications at 29.0%.

Enrolment in education is high across the local population, with 31.2% of residents currently undertaking formal study. This student cohort is comprised of 11.7% in primary school, 9.4% in secondary school, and 4.0% enrolled in higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have university qualifications?
23.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have no formal qualifications?
33.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% regionally.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The sheldon - mount cotton sa2 ranks in the 83th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are: Certificate (29.0%), Bachelor Degree (16.5%), Advanced Diploma (13.8%).
What proportion of the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
31.2% of the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.7% in primary school, 9.4% in secondary school, 4.0% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 1087, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
There are 2 schools within the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,070 students.
What types of schools are available in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The sheldon - mount cotton sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Public transport in Sheldon - Mount Cotton reaches 23 stops on 6 routes, timetabled for about 330 services a week. The typical home sits about 580 m from its nearest stop. Households keep an average of 2.2 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

An analysis of public transport reveals 23 active bus stops operating in Sheldon - Mount Cotton. These stops are served by 6 distinct routes, which combine to provide 329 weekly passenger journeys. Transport accessibility is moderate, with residents living an average of 584 meters from their nearest stop. Because the suburb is primarily residential, most workers commute out of the area, and private vehicles are the primary travel method, used by 94% of commuters. Households own an average of 2.2 vehicles, which is above the regional average. In the 2021 Census, 20.3% of residents reported working from home, though this figure was likely influenced by COVID-19 pandemic conditions.

Across all transit routes, service frequency averages 47 trips per day, which translates to roughly 14 weekly services per bus stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Sheldon - Mount Cotton?
There are 23 public transport stops within the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Sheldon - Mount Cotton?
the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 has 329 weekly trips across 6 routes, averaging 47 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Sheldon - Mount Cotton?
On average, residential properties are 584 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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72.9% of residents in Sheldon - Mount Cotton report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 79% of areas nationally. 3.9% need daily assistance with core activities, and 53.9% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 3.6 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators compiled by AreaSearch indicate strong outcomes across Sheldon - Mount Cotton, based on mortality statistics and low rates of chronic illness, particularly among younger residents. Furthermore, the rate of private health insurance coverage is slightly above the national SA2 average, covering approximately 54% of the population (~4,711 people). The most prevalent health issues recorded among local residents are mental health conditions and asthma, affecting 8.2 and 7.7% of the population respectively. However, 72.9% of residents reported having no long-term health conditions, which is higher than the 69.2% average across Greater Brisbane.

Health profiles for residents aged under 65 are better than average. Residents aged 65 and over make up 13.4% of the population (1,170 people), which is below the Greater Brisbane average of 15.1%. While health outcomes for these older residents are above average, they rank lower nationally than the outcomes seen in the younger local demographics.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 53.9% of people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 55.8% in the broader region of Greater Brisbane.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, 3.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
7.7% of people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Diabetes affects 3.0% of the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
2.9% of people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Brisbane, 3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2, 53.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 55.8%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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Sheldon - Mount Cotton is largely Australian-born, at 80.2% of residents, with 5.8% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (33.0%) and Australian (27.6%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Sheldon - Mount Cotton has a lower level of cultural diversity than typical Australian suburbs, with 80.2% of residents born in Australia, 92.0% holding citizenship, and 94.2% speaking only English at home. The predominant religious affiliation is Christianity, which is practiced by 49.0% of the local population, compared to 47.8% recorded across Greater Brisbane. In terms of parental heritage, the three largest ancestry groups in Sheldon - Mount Cotton are English at 33.0% (higher than the regional average of 26.8%), Australian at 27.6%, and Scottish at 8.0%. There are also several notable differences in ethnic representation compared to the wider region, with South Australian backgrounds representing 1.3% of the local population (compared to 0.6% regionally), New Zealand heritage at 1.1% (compared to 1.0%), and Dutch heritage at 1.7% (compared to 1.2%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
Sheldon - Mount Cotton was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.2% of its population born in Australia, 92.0% being citizens, and 94.2% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The main religion in Sheldon - Mount Cotton was found to be Christianity, which makes up 49.0% of people in Sheldon - Mount Cotton. This compares to 47.8% across Greater Brisbane.
What are the top countries of origin in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sheldon - Mount Cotton are English, comprising 33.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 26.8%, Australian, comprising 27.6% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 1.3% of Sheldon - Mount Cotton (vs 0.6% regionally), New Zealand at 1.1% (vs 1.0%) and Dutch at 1.7% (vs 1.2%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
19.8% of the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
5.8% of the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in the wider region.
How many people in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.3% of the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
92.0% of the the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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The median resident of Sheldon - Mount Cotton is 38. That is 1 year older than at the 2021 Census. 21.5% 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

Sheldon - Mount Cotton has a median age of 38, which is slightly older than the median of 36 in Greater Brisbane but aligns with the national median of 38 years. The 45 - 54 age bracket is highly represented at 16.2% of the population, while the 25 - 34 bracket is smaller at 8.6%. Since 2021, the proportion of residents aged 75 to 84 has risen from 3.2% to 5.0%. In contrast, the 25 to 34 age bracket decreased from 11.2% to 8.6%, and the 35 to 44 age bracket fell from 15.7% to 14.6%.

Projections out to 2041 indicate shifts in the age profile, with the 75 to 84 group forecast to grow by 43% (187 people), rising from 438 to 626 residents. This aging trend is prominent, with residents aged 65 and over accounting for 60% of all projected population growth, while the 15 to 24 and 25 to 34 cohorts are expected to contract.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 38 years.
How does the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 38 years, Sheldon - Mount Cotton is 2 years older than the Greater Brisbane average (36 years) and equal to the national average.
What age groups are over-represented in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 16.2% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.6% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 show significant variance compared to the Greater Brisbane region. The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (8.6% vs 15.5%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 22.2%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Sheldon - Mount Cotton SA2 is 13.4%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Sheldon - Mount Cotton

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 May 2026 3 months ago all 5 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 May 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. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (8,357 at the 2021 Census → 8,742 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 (301021011). 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton 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 Sheldon - Mount Cotton 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 (May 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.

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