Suburb profile · Greater Brisbane
Chelmer has an estimated 3,366 residents, up 1.2% since the 2021 Census, with 76 projects tracked in the area around Chelmer.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated 6.9 kilometres southwest from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Chelmer is an affluent residential enclave distinguished by leafy, picturesque streetscapes, generous properties, and a blend of character-filled heritage residences and contemporary family homes. The nearby Brisbane River borders the area, offering waterfront paths and parks that complement an active community served by local schools, dining options, and retail amenities. Chelmer features an established demographic profile with an above-average household size, characterised by a substantial proportion of married families, couples with children, teenagers, and middle-aged and elderly cohorts, alongside an elevated share of individuals aged 15 to 24yo.
As of August 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of the suburb of Chelmer is estimated at around 3,366, derived from annual aggregated SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address file updates, with 4 validated new addresses recorded since the 2021 Census.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 6.9 kilometres southwest from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Chelmer is an affluent residential enclave distinguished by leafy, picturesque streetscapes, generous properties, and a blend of character-filled heritage residences and contemporary family homes. The nearby Brisbane River borders the area, offering waterfront paths and parks that complement an active community served by local schools, dining options, and retail amenities. Chelmer features an established demographic profile with an above-average household size, characterised by a substantial proportion of married families, couples with children, teenagers, and middle-aged and elderly cohorts, alongside an elevated share of individuals aged 15 to 24yo.
As of August 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of the suburb of Chelmer is estimated at around 3,366, derived from annual aggregated SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address file updates, with 4 validated new addresses recorded since the 2021 Census.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,869 in 2006 and 3,364 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,366 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 18.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 42.7%.
Chelmer ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for income and the 96th for infrastructure drivers.
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 Chelmer is $900 a week, up 13.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 44% above Greater Brisbane.
44% above Greater Brisbane on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $609 in 2017, $1,200 in 2026. A break means no rent was reported that year. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $900 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +13.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,200 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sherwood - Indooroopilly | $614 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sherwood - Indooroopilly, over 12 months | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Brisbane - West | $677 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Brisbane - West, over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Brisbane | $627 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Brisbane, over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 93 tracked applications: 66 approved, 21 under assessment, 6 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 76 projects in and around Chelmer, 23 of them under construction.
Luxury boutique development of 13 bespoke apartments featuring river views, double glazing, real timber herringbone flooring, and premium finishes. Amenities include heated magnesium pool and spa, steam room, residents' gym, and outdoor entertaining spaces. Developed by Pitman Properties with 40+ years experience.
A 12-level building with 95 apartments featuring two and three-bedroom units designed by Rothelowman. Includes ground floor retail precinct with four tenancies, rooftop pool and amenities, and modern terracotta facade design.
TriCare's proposed redevelopment of the site at 52 Seven Oaks Street, Taringa, for a residential aged care and retirement living facility. The earlier proposal sought three towers of 9, 14 and 16 storeys with independent living, assisted living and residential care beds, designed by Deicke Richards Architects.
A boutique collection of 35 two and three-bedroom apartments over five levels, featuring a neutral palette inspired by nature, high-quality finishes and fixtures from renowned brands, rooftop terrace with manicured gardens, two undercover secure car parks per residence, and basement storage.
A 15-storey residential tower development featuring 40 apartments with an Art Deco-inspired design reflecting the nearby Walter Taylor Bridge heritage. The upscaled plans include 20 three-bedroom family apartments, increased from the original 10, and upgraded communal rooftop facilities from 95sqm to 380sqm including pool, landscaping, and gym.
A boutique collection of 46 apartments designed by Rothelowman, Carr, and FORM Landscape Architects. Features Queensland House vernacular with elevated views, terraced design, and premium architecture celebrating the elevated hillside position.
Two subtropical designed towers (20 and 9 storeys) comprising 124 apartments (39 one-bedroom, 74 two-bedroom, 11 three-bedroom) fronting Keating Park. Features hidden carpark ramp linking to Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, rooftop pool and BBQ deck area on level 10, ground floor retail tenancy, and environmentally sustainable design features.
A luxury multi-level townhouse development at 75 Jacaranda Place, Indooroopilly, featuring 12 high-end residences with modern architecture, premium finishes, and proximity to local amenities in a quiet residential area.
New residential development at 222 Swann Road, Taringa featuring contemporary apartment living in prime location with modern amenities, landscaped gardens, and easy access to UQ and CBD.
Three-part active transport link proposed to connect the Western Freeway Bikeway and the University of Queensland. Council is investigating options for sections between Carawa Street (St Lucia), the Indooroopilly Riverwalk, the Western Freeway Bikeway, and Moggill Road (Indooroopilly).
A 478-apartment mixed-use development across four towers (15-20 storeys) at the corner of Station Road and Riverview Terrace, Indooroopilly. Developed by Keylin Group and designed by Jackson Teece, the project delivers 388 build-to-rent apartments (including 39 affordable housing units), 44 short-term accommodation apartments, and 46 build-to-sell private…
Environmental rehabilitation project within the Oxley Priority Development Area delivering approximately 3 hectares of restored conservation land.
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 38 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 6, 2026 14, 2027 9, 2028 5, 2029 2, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1. 14 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 93 substantial development applications lodged in and around Chelmer over the past 5 years, 25 in the last 12 months; 21 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 25, 2023 5, 2024 13, 2025 33, 2026 (to Oct) 16.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 93 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 8 | ABS building approvals | 17th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 66 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Chelmer include: Centenary Motorway Bypass (Planning); Centa Property Group Lambert Road Development (Approved); The Audrey (Construction); Oxley Creek Transformation (Construction); and Ethereal Residences (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Chelmer spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Health & Medical, among others.
The suburb of Chelmer ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Chelmer is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Chelmer area has seen 2 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Chelmer's current population of 3,366 has been supported by 8 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Chelmer has seen 2.5 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.1 approval in Greater Brisbane. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 3373 people in the suburb of Chelmer, compared to one for every 117 in Greater Brisbane.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Chelmer's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 8, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Chelmer has seen 41 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Chelmer are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,366 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,340 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 76th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.2% | 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 | 3,325 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 41 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.44 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Chelmer was estimated to be approximately 3,366 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,364 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Chelmer has added approximately 41 people and shown a 1.23% increase from the 3,325 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Chelmer is estimated at 2,338 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Chelmer has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Chelmer is driven by: Overseas migration (94.0%), Natural increase (6.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 94.0% of overall population gains.
Chelmer's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 41 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.5% | 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 | 41 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 18.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Chelmer at 41 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 41 years as at August 2026, Chelmer is 5 years older than the Greater Brisbane 2021 Census average (36 years) and 3 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Chelmer compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 18.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Chelmer compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 5.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Chelmer show significant variance compared to Greater Brisbane. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.5% vs 1.8%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (5.4% vs 15.8%) and 0-4 year-olds (3.3% vs 5.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.8% of the population in the suburb of Chelmer as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.6% of the population in the suburb of Chelmer as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 4% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $71,022 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 86th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $101,979 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $3,402 | 2021 Census, weekly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,282 | 2021 Census, weekly | 94th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 59.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,900 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 9.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Chelmer is approximately $76,072. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $71,022.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Chelmer is approximately $109,230. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $101,979.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Chelmer is approximately $76,072 compared to $66,053 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $71,022 and $61,668 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Chelmer is approximately $109,230 compared to $82,596 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $101,979 and $77,113 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Chelmer's households (~42.8% / 444 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Chelmer is the $4000+ group, representing about 42.8% of households. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Chelmer is $3,402/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Chelmer is $3,900/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Chelmer is $1,282/wk.
The suburb of Chelmer's income level is among the top percentile nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Chelmer's median income among taxpayers is $71,022 and the average income stands at $101,979, which compares to figures for Greater Brisbane's of $61,668 and $77,113 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $76,072 (median) and $109,230 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Chelmer is $13,063 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Chelmer's disposable income is $13,063 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Chelmer significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 66.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,785 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,861 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,823 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Chelmer has approximately 1,785 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.1%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Chelmer stands at 2.1%, which is 2.2 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%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Chelmer is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (17.3% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.8%), and education & training (12.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and finance & insurance.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Chelmer has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Chelmer is 66.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Brisbane average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Chelmer shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 17.3% of the local workforce compared to 8.9% across Greater Brisbane. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 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 suburb of Chelmer's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.9% decline, ranking 29th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Chelmer: university qualifications 56.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 950.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 34.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 15.8% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 56.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 26.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
56.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Chelmer have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane.
26.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Chelmer have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% in Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Chelmer ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Chelmer are: Bachelor Degree (34.9%), Postgraduate (15.8%), Advanced Diploma (8.9%).
36.7% of the population in the suburb of Chelmer is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.9% in primary school, 11.4% in secondary school, 8.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Chelmer is 950, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Chelmer, with a combined enrollment of approximately 367 students.
The suburb of Chelmer includes 1 secondary school.
Chelmer features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.0 people | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 15.2% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 48.4% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,038 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,051 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 82.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Chelmer had 1,038 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.3% to an estimated 1,051 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Chelmer is 3.0 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 82.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (15.2%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.4%).
Of the 851 family households, couples with children account for 48.4% of all households, couples without children at home 25.0%, and single parent families 7.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Chelmer shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 82.0% (versus 71.7% in Greater Brisbane). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 15.2% compared to 23.6% in Greater Brisbane. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Chelmer have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 57.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.8% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
Single-person households represent 15.2% of all households in the suburb of Chelmer, notably lower than the average for Greater Brisbane of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.4% of households, below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Chelmer 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 | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 86.7% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.3% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.3% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
Chelmer was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 13.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 25.7% born overseas.
The main religion in Chelmer was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.5% of people in Chelmer. This compares to 47.8% across Greater Brisbane.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Chelmer are English, comprising 27.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 22.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 11.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 10.3% of Chelmer (vs 7.4% across Greater Brisbane), Welsh at 0.9% (vs 0.5%) and New Zealand at 1.3% (vs 1.0%).
25.7% of the suburb of Chelmer population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% across Greater Brisbane.
13.3% of the population in the suburb of Chelmer speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in Greater Brisbane.
0.2% of the suburb of Chelmer population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in Greater Brisbane.
88.3% of the suburb of Chelmer population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in Greater Brisbane.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Chelmer is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 15.6% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.6% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $3,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 96th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 44.9% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $490 | 2021 Census, weekly | 88th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 14.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 7th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 18th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Chelmer, 39.5% of homes are owned outright, 44.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 15.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.6% of dwellings in the suburb of Chelmer are houses.
In the suburb of Chelmer, 5.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Chelmer stands at 39.5%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Chelmer is $3,000, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Chelmer is $1,678, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Chelmer, households with mortgages typically spend 20.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 14.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Chelmer is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Chelmer shows mortgage holders spending 20.4% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Brisbane), while renters spend 14.4% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Greater Brisbane).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Chelmer consists of 94.6% detached houses, 0.0% semi-detached dwellings, 5.4% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Chelmer consumes approximately 11.4% of median household income ($14,731 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.
Health in Chelmer: private health cover 66.0%, no long-term health condition 73.3%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 66.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 87th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
Around 66.0% of people in the suburb of Chelmer are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.1% in Greater Brisbane.
In the suburb of Chelmer, 5.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the suburb of Chelmer are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.2% of the suburb of Chelmer population, while in Greater Brisbane, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.2% of people in the suburb of Chelmer have heart disease. Across Greater Brisbane,3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Chelmer, 66.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.1%.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 405 m away and the nearest school 448 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 48 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 48th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 405 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 448 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 838 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Chelmer is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Chelmer.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Chelmer is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Chelmer has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 4% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Chelmer is $900 a week, +13.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Chelmer are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Chelmer's median age exceeds the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 4% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Chelmer significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
Education in Chelmer: university qualifications 56.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 950.
Chelmer features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Chelmer was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Chelmer is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Chelmer: private health cover 66.0%, no long-term health condition 73.3%.
Transport in Chelmer: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Chelmer has an estimated 3,366 residents, up 1.2% since the 2021 Census, with 76 projects tracked in the area around Chelmer.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Chelmer.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or 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 (SAL30588). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
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 2024). 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 Chelmer 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 Chelmer 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 | 31 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 31st percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.7 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 38.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
