Area profile · Rest of Qld
Torres Strait Islands has an estimated 4,298 residents, up 4.2% since the 2021 Census, with 60 projects tracked in the area around Torres Strait Islands.
Updated 29 Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 1,332 kilometres east from Darwin CBD, the Torres Strait Islands Statistical Area (Lv2) presents a distinctive demographic and economic profile renowned for its azure waters, white sandy beaches, and rich indigenous cultural heritage of art, dance, and music. Demographically, the area is characterised by an above-average number of children per family and a notable representation of residents aged 5 to 14yo. According to AreaSearch's analysis, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) stands at around 4,298 as of Aug 2026, marking an increase of 174 people (4.2%) from the 4,124 people recorded at the 2021 Census. This growth is supported by an ABS estimated resident population of 4,298 as of June 2025 alongside an additional 9 validated new addresses confirmed since the Census date, pointing to measured long-term expansion patterns.
The local residential landscape features affordable housing options, strong detached house representation, and a high percentage of renters.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 4,244 in 2001 and 4,298 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 20.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 31.3%.
Torres Strait Islands ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 56th for health.
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 Torres Strait Islands is $348 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026 and 48% below Rest of Qld.
48% below Rest of Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $302 in 2017, $348 in 2022. The latest is to Jun 2026.
The change over 12 months, by dwelling type, is charted in Full.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $348 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $348 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Far North | $407 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Queensland - Outback | $408 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Rest of Qld | $670 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $672 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 60 projects in and around Torres Strait Islands, 19 of them under construction.
Masterplanned 20 townhouse development on Waiben (Thursday Island) commissioned by the Torres Strait Regional Authority, with climate…
A partnership between the Queensland Government Housing Investment Fund, the Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust and modular builder…
A three storey community housing complex on Thursday Island providing 16 two bedroom units on a single 2,783 m2 site for Queensland…
The Cooktown Multi-Purpose Health Service (MPHS) Redevelopment is a $200 million regional hospital transformation delivered by Health…
Greenfield residential subdivision at 2 Hope Street, Cooktown, reconfiguring one lot into 12 residential lots under Cook Shire DA/4310 with…
The Garma Institute is a Yolngu-led tertiary and vocational education campus to be built at Gunyangara, about 13 kilometres from Nhulunbuy…
A strategic roadmap guiding the redevelopment and renewal of Nhulunbuy as it transitions from a mining town to a sustainable regional hub.
A landmark $7 million community-led housing initiative to deliver 11 new two-bedroom units (four duplexes and a triplex) in Nhulunbuy.
The Northern Territory Government has listed a design-and-construct tender for a new community cyclone shelter in the Nhulunbuy township…
A $9.3 million upgrade of marine and land tourism infrastructure at Inverell Bay, Gunyangara, near Nhulunbuy, to support tourism and marine…
Douglas Shire Council is delivering landside road and ramp upgrades on both sides of the Daintree River together with a new four-lane…
$14.8 million primary health centre serving remote Daintree communities with essential healthcare services and emergency capabilities.
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 22 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 5, 2027 8, 2028 2, 2029 2, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1. 22 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 0.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 1 | ABS building approvals | 7th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 area has seen 8 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Torres Strait Islands SA2's current population of 4,298 has been supported by 1 approval on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Torres Strait Islands SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 1, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 has grown by approximately 54 people, while 8 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 6.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Torres Strait Islands SA2 include: Queensland National Land Transport Network Maintenance (Planning); Queensland Energy Roadmap - SuperGrid Infrastructure Program (Construction); Queensland Energy Roadmap 2025 (Approved); Queensland Energy Roadmap 2025 (Planning); and Network Optimisation Program - Rail (Proposed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Torres Strait Islands SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Transport & Logistics, and Health & Medical, among others.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Torres Strait Islands SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within the broader region.
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the Torres Strait Islands SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
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.
Torres Strait Islands has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,298 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 9 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 18th 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 | 4,124 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 174 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | 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 | 490.05 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Torres Strait Islands SA2 was estimated to be approximately 4,298 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,298 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The torres strait islands sa2 has added approximately 174 people and shown a 4.22% increase from the 4,124 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is estimated at 8 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (99.0%), Overseas migration (1.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 99.0% of overall population gains.
Torres Strait Islands hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 28 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 29.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.0% | 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 | 27 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 20.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 2.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 at 28 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 27 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 28 years as at August 2026, Torres Strait Islands is 13 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 10 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 20.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 2.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional Qld region. The most over-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (20.5% vs 12.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (8.8% vs 5.3%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.4% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (2.5% vs 7.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 29.3% of the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 9.4% of the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,725 a year | ATO FY-23, annual | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $62,273 a year | ATO FY-23, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $976 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $411 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 5.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $923 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 40.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is approximately $58,715. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $52,725.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is approximately $69,347. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $62,273.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is approximately $58,715 compared to $59,183 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $52,725 and $53,146 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is approximately $69,347 compared to $74,158 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $62,273 and $66,593 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~31.3% / 1,345 persons) of the Torres Strait Islands SA2's population is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest income cohort in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 31.3% of the population. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $976/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $923/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $411/wk.
The Torres Strait Islands SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Torres Strait Islands SA2's median income among taxpayers is $52,725 and the average income stands at $62,273, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $53,146 and $66,593 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $58,715 (median) and $69,347 (average) as of March 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $3,705 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The torres strait islands sa2's disposable income is $3,705 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Torres Strait Islands face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 7% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 18.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 43.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,078 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,172 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,328 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the Torres Strait Islands SA2 has approximately 1,078 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 18.8%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 stands at 18.8%, which is 14.9 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (35.1% of employment), education & training (21.2%), and health care & social assistance (12.3%). These three sectors alone account for 68.6% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the Torres Strait Islands SA2 has experienced stable employment levels while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is 43.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The torres strait islands sa2 shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 35.1% of the local workforce compared to 5.9% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 5.9, 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.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The torres strait islands sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.5% growth, ranking 6th out of 37 regions nationally.
Torres Strait Islands faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 4.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 41.7% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 33.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 21.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
4.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in the broader region.
46.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% regionally.
The torres strait islands sa2 ranks in the 14th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 are: Certificate (41.7%), Advanced Diploma (6.4%), Bachelor Degree (3.3%).
33.5% of the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 21.2% in primary school, 6.7% in secondary school, 0.4% at university.
There are 15 schools within the Torres Strait Islands SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 0 students.
The torres strait islands sa2 includes 15 primary schools.
Torres Strait Islands features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.5 people | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 21.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 36.4% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,013 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,056 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 78.1% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.5 per family | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Torres Strait Islands SA2 had 1,013 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.2% to an estimated 1,056 households today.
The median household size in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is 3.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 78.1% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (21.4%), group households (0.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Among the 791 family households, 36.4% are couples with children, 11.0% are couples without children at home, and 28.2% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Torres Strait Islands SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 78.1% (versus 70.4% regionally). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 have an average of 2.5 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 22.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 69.4% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 21.4% of all households in the Torres Strait Islands SA2, similar to the regional average of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 0.8% of households, well below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Torres Strait Islands was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 6.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Australian citizens | 93.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 96.5% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 14.8% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
Torres Strait Islands was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 3.5% of its population born overseas and 93.1% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Torres Strait Islands was found to be Christianity, which makes up 86.6% of people in Torres Strait Islands. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Torres Strait Islands are Other, comprising 79.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 6.9%, Australian Aboriginal, comprising 14.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 3.9%, and Australian, comprising 2.0% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 26.5%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Samoan is notably overrepresented at 0.3% of Torres Strait Islands (vs 0.2% regionally).
3.5% of the Torres Strait Islands SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% regionally.
93.1% of the population in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in the wider region.
14.8% of the Torres Strait Islands SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in the region.
93.6% of the Torres Strait Islands SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in the wider region.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Torres Strait Islands is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.8% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $130 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 13.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
In the Torres Strait Islands SA2, 6.5% of homes are owned outright, 0.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 93.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.8% of dwellings in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 are houses.
In the Torres Strait Islands SA2, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 stands at 6.5%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $0, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is $524, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Torres Strait Islands SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 0.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 13.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 0.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% regionally), while renters spend 13.3% of income on rent (vs 22.9% regionally).
The dwelling mix in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 consists of 95.8% detached houses, 3.2% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Torres Strait Islands consumes approximately 12.4% of median household income ($4,226 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Torres Strait Islands's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2023, private health cover | 32nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 82.0% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 85.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.5% in the broader region of Regional Qld.
In the Torres Strait Islands SA2, 3.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
3.8% of people in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 9.3% of the Torres Strait Islands SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.9% of people in the Torres Strait Islands SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Qld, 4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Torres Strait Islands SA2, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.5%.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 41.1 km away and the nearest child care centre 77.7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 41.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 77.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 78.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 82.0 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). There is 1 long day care centre with 14 places in Torres Strait Islands, about 26.9 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
The level of residential development activity in Torres Strait Islands is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Torres Strait Islands has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 15% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Torres Strait Islands is $348 a week for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
Torres Strait Islands has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Torres Strait Islands hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Torres Strait Islands face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 7% of areas assessed nationally.
Torres Strait Islands faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Torres Strait Islands features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Torres Strait Islands was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Torres Strait Islands is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region.
Torres Strait Islands's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
No public transport data available for this catchment area.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Torres Strait Islands has an estimated 4,298 residents, up 4.2% since the 2021 Census, with 60 projects tracked in the area around Torres Strait Islands.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-23 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 29 Aug 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 Torres Strait Islands.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2023. 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 29 Aug 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 (315011402). 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) and income (FY 2023). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Torres Strait Islands 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 Torres Strait Islands 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 | 0.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 2.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.