Dandenong

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Melbourne / Dandenong

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL20707 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

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 comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Dandenong

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Dandenong

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Dandenong has an estimated 32,363 residents, up from 30,127 at the 2021 Census — a change of 2,236 people, or 7.4%. 285 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 85.0% of that increase. That puts 2,846 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

Analysis of ABS population updates for the wider region and recent address validations by AreaSearch since the Census indicates the suburb of Dandenong has a population of approximately 32,363 in May 2026. This represents an expansion of 2,236 residents (7.4%) from the 2021 Census, which counted 30,127 individuals. The shift is calculated from a resident population of 32,276, estimated by AreaSearch using the June 2025 ABS ERP release, supplemented by 285 validated new addresses added since the Census. This population size results in a density of 2,846 persons per square kilometer, placing the locality in the upper quartile of Australian areas analyzed by AreaSearch.

The 7.4% growth rate in the suburb of Dandenong since the 2021 census outpaced the broader SA3 region (7.0%), making it a regional leader in growth. Overseas migration was the primary driver of this growth, accounting for approximately 85.0% of the total population gains in recent times. Projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia, published in 2024 using 2022 as the base year, are utilized by AreaSearch for SA2 areas. For SA2 regions lacking this coverage, AreaSearch incorporates the 2023 VIC State Government Regional/LGA projections, adjusted by aggregating growth weights from the LGA to the SA2 level. The age structure growth rates derived from these aggregations are also applied to all areas for the period 2032 to 2041. Based on these anticipated demographic transformations, the suburb of Dandenong is projected to experience population growth above the median of areas analyzed by AreaSearch, with an expected increase of 6,434 persons by 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level forecasts, representing a total increase of 19.6% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Dandenong?
Total population for the suburb of Dandenong was estimated to be approximately 32,363 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 32,276 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Dandenong changed since 2021?
The suburb of dandenong has added approximately 2,236 people and shown a 7.42% increase from the 30,127 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Dandenong?
The population density in the suburb of Dandenong is estimated at 2,846 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Dandenong?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Dandenong has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Dandenong?
Population growth in the suburb of Dandenong is driven by: Overseas migration (85.0%), Natural increase (15.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 85.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Dandenong

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574 new dwellings have been approved in Dandenong over the past five years, an average of 114 a year. That is 3.7 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 95 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 20% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 211, running ahead of that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Analysis of building approvals from the ABS allocated to local levels shows that approximately 114 new residential properties are approved annually in the area, with a total of 574 homes approved over the last 5 financial years. In the current FY-26 period, 194 approvals have been documented. Since there has been an average of only 0.2 new residents added annually for each built home over the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), residential construction is keeping pace with or running ahead of demand, expanding choices for purchasers and supporting population growth that may outstrip current projections, while new dwellings carry an average construction value of $374,000.

Furthermore, $48.1 million in commercial building approvals have been logged in the current financial year, indicating healthy business investment locally. Per-capita construction activity in the area matches the average of Greater Melbourne, indicating a balanced market in line with the wider metropolitan region. The mix of new construction consists of 20.0% detached houses and 80.0% attached dwellings. This emphasis on medium and high-density housing options provides more economical entry points, appealing to downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This represents a clear shift from the existing housing stock, where houses comprise 42.0% of homes, reflecting reduced land availability for development and shifting lifestyle choices and affordability constraints. With approximately 415 people for every approval, the local market shows signs of maturity. Projections indicate the local population will grow by 6,347 residents up to 2041, measured from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly estimation. Construction is keeping up reasonably well with this projected growth, though home buyers may experience heightened competition as the population expands.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Dandenong recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Dandenong area has seen 155 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Dandenong's current population of 32,363 has been supported by 114 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Dandenong has seen 0.37 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.9 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 415 people in the suburb of Dandenong, compared to one for every 125 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Dandenong keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 6,347 people by 2041, around 2,116 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Dandenong?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Dandenong's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 114, showing modest growth in recent years.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Dandenong?
The population in the suburb of Dandenong is expected to grow by 6,347 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 2,116 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 suburb of Dandenong?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Dandenong has grown by approximately 9,992 people, while 574 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 17.4 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 suburb of Dandenong?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 114 approvals per year and a population of 32,363, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 6,347 people by 2041, around 2,116 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Dandenong

Development applications around Dandenong

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.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 8 applications for Dandenong, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Dandenong

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AreaSearch tracks 16 current infrastructure and development projects inside Dandenong, worth an estimated $3.8 billion. A further 66 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $15.6 billion. 22 are already under construction and 20 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, transport & logistics and communities, precincts & urban renewal. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, planning initiatives, and major developments have a significant impact on local performance. AreaSearch has identified 20 projects that are expected to influence the locality. Key initiatives include the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre, the Webster Street Level Crossing Removal, Dandenong New Art (DNA), and The Lonsdale, with details provided below for the most significant developments.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Dandenong?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Dandenong include: Dandenong Wellbeing Centre (Construction); Webster Street Level Crossing Removal (Construction); Dandenong New Art (DNA) (Construction); The Lonsdale (Construction); and Little India Precinct (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Dandenong?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Dandenong spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Dandenong?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $3.9 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Dandenong vicinity.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the suburb of Dandenong demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
Dandenong Wellbeing Centre
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 122.15 million dollar state-of-the-art aquatic and wellness hub being built at Mills Reserve to replace the 45-year-old Dandenong Oasis. The facility will include an indoor 50-metre pool, a 25-metre 10-lane pool, two warm water program pools for hydrotherapy and rehabilitation, a learn-to-swim pool, and a family leisure pool with splashpad. Supporting amenities include a large gymnasium, group fitness studios, more than 200 square metres of allied water lounge and allied health consulting suites, community meeting rooms, a cafe, spa, sauna and steam room, plus an integrated hockey pavilion replacing the existing Mills Reserve facilities.The design features large-span engineered timber beams across the main pool hall and entry foyer, targets a 5 Star Green Star rating, and includes culturally inclusive features such as a parents and prayer room and capacity to isolate the warm water pool for women-only programs. Construction began with a sod-turning ceremony on 5 July 2025 and the centre is on track to open in early to mid 2027. The project is supported by a 20 million dollar Federal Government grant.

Sports & Recreation

Dandenong New Art (DNA)
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of the heritage 1920s Masonic Hall at 5 Mason Street into a contemporary art gallery known as Dandenong New Art (DNA). The project includes state-of-the-art exhibition spaces, collection storage, education facilities, workshop spaces, cafe and retail, and community spaces. Originally due to open in mid-2021, the project has been beset by disputes with builder Harris HMC over defective steelworks, COVID-related cost and labour pressures, and delays caused by the need to demolish the adjacent Precinct Energy Plant (PEP) building due to structural deficiencies.The PEP demolition was completed in August 2025. As of mid-2026, the project remains on pause pending procurement of a new contractor, with the total cost now revealed at $15.7 million - nearly four times the original $4 million budget - and completion pushed out to 2028.

Arts & Culture

Dandenong Community Hub
Category: Communities
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A multi-purpose community facility planned for central Dandenong on a site bounded by Stuart Street, Clow Street and Sleeth Avenue. The hub is intended to integrate early years services, kindergarten, childcare, maternal and child health, community meeting rooms, maker spaces, a cafe, co-working spaces, a technology hub and outdoor recreational areas. After cost estimates blew out from an original $30 million budget to about $65 million (plus up to $15 million for a basement car park) for a one-storey design, councillors voted on 8 December 2025 to halve the building from around 3,950 square metres to about 1,800 square metres - comparable to the recently completed Keysborough Community Hub.A rescission motion was lodged but at the 26 January 2026 Council meeting the original decision was upheld. Council has approved a redesign comparable in size and budget to the Keysborough Hub, completion of the co-design process, an accelerated program to better attract State and Federal funding, and exploration of public-private partnership options including air rights above the site. The project is being coordinated alongside the Dandenong Market Precinct Plan, which was released for public consultation in March 2026.

Communities

Webster Street Level Crossing Removal
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major infrastructure project permanently closing the dangerous Webster Street level crossing and constructing a new road underpass beneath the rail line, connecting Princes Highway-Lonsdale Street to Cheltenham and Hammond roads. The crossing recorded 22 near misses since 2012 and boom gates were down for over 60 minutes during morning peak. Webster Street closed to vehicles at the level crossing in late 2025, making the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines boom gate free, and the new approximately 450m road underpass is on track to open in September 2026, two years ahead of the original 2028 schedule.The project also delivers a new walking and cycling path connecting to the Dandenong Creek Trail and a new signalised intersection at Princes Highway-Lonsdale Street.

Transport & Logistics

Revitalising Central Dandenong Sites 11-15 - Little India Precinct
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Dev. Approval | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Stage one of Capital Alliance's Revitalising Central Dandenong Sites 11-15 redevelopment has been approved at 139-157 Thomas Street. The broader mixed-use precinct will deliver a renewed Little India laneway, new homes, shops, cafes, food venues, community space and employment uses near Dandenong Station. Development Victoria reports demolition works for stage one are set to begin soon, with the broader redevelopment planned over multiple stages to 2030 and beyond.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Revitalising Central Dandenong - Sites 11-15
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Dev. Approval | Est. Comp: 2041
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $2 billion urban renewal project transforming 7 hectares in central Dandenong into a mixed-use precinct. The master plan includes over 470 dwellings, a new Little India retail laneway, 2,500 square metres of community space, a 29-storey hotel, cinema, medical facilities, and a childcare centre. Stage 1 at 139-157 Thomas Street received planning approval in April 2026, with demolition works commencing shortly to prepare for construction. The project is a long-term 20-year delivery scheduled across seven stages to establish Dandenong as Melbourne's second CBD.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

The Lonsdale
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

A 14-storey mixed-use development featuring 112 residential apartments (1, 2, and 3-bedroom options) and ground-floor retail spaces. Designed by DOIG Architecture and built by Promax Building Developments, this contemporary security building represents a significant addition to central Dandenong's skyline. The development features high-end finishes including American Oak engineered timber floors, Caesarstone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling porcelain tiles in bathrooms, and modern stainless-steel kitchen appliances. Located on approximately 1330m2 of land with basement parking over 2 levels.

Residential Development

Viv's Place
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2022
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Australia's first purpose-built permanent housing facility for women and children escaping domestic violence and homelessness. The 8-storey building provides 60 dual-key apartments with 24/7 on-site support including case management, counselling, and communal spaces. The $30 million trauma-informed project was inspired by New York's Sugar Hill model to break the cycle of intergenerational homelessness.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Dandenong

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13,049 residents of Dandenong are employed, from a labour force of 15,451. Unemployment sits at 15.5%, with participation at 59.5%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 37,895, about 117% of the resident population, so the area draws in more workers than it sends out. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce is characterized by diverse skills, with the construction sector showing notable local concentration, while the unemployment rate stands at 15.5%, and employment growth is estimated at 3.3% over the prior year, according to AreaSearch regional aggregations. In March 2026, there were 13,049 employed residents, though the local unemployment rate is 10.8% higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 4.8%, highlighting opportunities for labor market improvement, and participation in the workforce is lower (59.5% relative to 70.2% across Greater Melbourne). Census data shows that a minor 11.8% of residents worked from home, although this should be viewed in light of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are manufacturing, health care & social assistance, and construction. There is a strong concentration in manufacturing, which has an employment share 2.2 times higher than the metropolitan benchmark. Conversely, professional & technical services are underrepresented, accounting for only 4.7% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Greater Melbourne. At the time of the Census, there was a ratio of 0.8 workers for every resident, pointing to a strong presence of local jobs. An analysis of SALM and ABS statistics aggregated from broader regions shows that over the 12-month period, employment rose by 3.3% and the labor force grew by 3.6%, leading to a 0.2 percentage point rise in unemployment. By comparison, Greater Melbourne recorded employment growth of 2.1% and labor force growth of 2.3%, alongside a 0.2 percentage point increase in unemployment. Industry employment forecasts from Jobs and Skills Australia published in May-25 provide context for future workforce requirements. These projections, spanning five and ten-year horizons, have been applied to the local workforce structure to model future patterns. Nationally, employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, with performance varying widely by sector. Applying these sectoral projections to the local industry mix suggests employment in the area will expand by 5.8% over five years and 12.6% over ten years, representing a basic weighted projection that does not incorporate local population changes.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Dandenong?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Dandenong has approximately 13,049 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 15.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Dandenong stands at 15.5%, which is 10.8 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Dandenong?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Dandenong is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are manufacturing (15.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (15.0%), and construction (13.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and transport, postal & warehousing.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Dandenong?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Dandenong has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Dandenong?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Dandenong is 59.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Greater Melbourne average of 70.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Dandenong's employment market?
The suburb of dandenong shows notable specialization in manufacturing, which employs 15.8% of the local workforce compared to 7.2% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.2, 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.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Dandenong?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Dandenong's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.8% over the next five years and 12.6% 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 suburb of Dandenong compare nationally?
The suburb of dandenong'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 saw a 8.9% decline, ranking 34.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Dandenong?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Dandenong, with skilled sectors accounting for 28.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (15.0%), education & training (4.9%), and professional & technical (4.7%). With projected employment growth of 5.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Dandenong

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Median household income in Dandenong is $1,267 a week (about $66,000 a year), with median personal income at $596 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $45,402 a year against an average of $52,232. 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 most recent postcode ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023, the median taxpayer income in the area is $45,402 and the average is $52,232. These figures sit below the national benchmarks, contrasting with the Greater Melbourne median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Adjusting for Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since financial year 2023 yields updated estimates of approximately $49,770 for the median and $57,257 for the average in March 2026. The 2021 Census indicates that household, family, and personal incomes all place between the 11th and 18th percentiles across the country.

The largest income bracket contains 29.7% of local taxpayers (9,611 people) who earn between $1,500 - 2,999, mirroring the metropolitan trend where 32.8% of taxpayers fall into the same bracket. Housing cost burdens are significant, leaving only 79.4% of income after housing expenses, placing the area in the 14th percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong is approximately $49,770. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $45,402.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong is approximately $57,257. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $52,232.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong is approximately $49,770 compared to $63,238 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $45,402 and $57,688 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Dandenong is approximately $57,257 compared to $82,395 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $52,232 and $75,164 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Dandenong according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.7% / 9,611 persons) of the suburb of Dandenong's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Dandenong compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Dandenong is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.7% of the population. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Dandenong according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Dandenong is $1,267/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Dandenong according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Dandenong is $1,413/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Dandenong according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Dandenong is $596/wk.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Dandenong's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The suburb of Dandenong's median income among taxpayers is $45,402 and the average income stands at $52,232, which compares to figures for Greater Melbourne's of $57,688 and $75,164 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $49,770 (median) and $57,257 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Dandenong?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Dandenong is $4,360 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of dandenong's disposable income is $4,360 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Dandenong

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Dandenong had 9,813 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 42% detached houses and 19% apartments. 25% are owned with a mortgage, 55% rented and 21% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $319 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,517 a month. Rent absorbs 25.2% of household income here and mortgage repayments 27.6%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the most recent Census, the local housing mix consisted of 41.5% houses and 58.5% other dwelling types, such as townhouses, flats, and alternative options, whereas the Greater Melbourne average stood at 67.9% houses and 32.1% other dwellings. The rate of home ownership was lower than the metropolitan average at 20.5%, with the remaining dwellings occupied by households with a mortgage (24.5%) or renting households (54.9%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $1,517 was lower than the metropolitan average of $2,000, while the median weekly rent was $319, compared to $390 across Greater Melbourne.

On a national scale, local mortgage payments are below the Australian average of $1,863, and weekly rents are lower than the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Dandenong?
In the suburb of Dandenong, 20.5% of homes are owned outright, 24.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 54.9% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Dandenong are houses?
According to the latest data, 41.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Dandenong are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Dandenong are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Dandenong, 19.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 39.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Dandenong?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Dandenong stands at 20.5%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Dandenong?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Dandenong is $1,517, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Dandenong?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Dandenong is $319, compared to $390 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Dandenong?
In the suburb of Dandenong, 6.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 58.5% are $150-349/week, 33.8% are $350-649/week, 0.7% are $650-949/week, and 0.7% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Dandenong?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Dandenong is $1,130, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Dandenong?
In the suburb of Dandenong, households with mortgages typically spend 27.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.2% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Dandenong?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Dandenong is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Dandenong compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Dandenong shows mortgage holders spending 27.6% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% regionally), while renters spend 25.2% of income on rent (vs 20.5% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Dandenong?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Dandenong consists of 41.5% detached houses, 39.1% semi-detached dwellings, 19.3% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Dandenong?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,130. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,517/month, and renters paying $1,381/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Dandenong relative to local incomes?
Housing in Dandenong consumes approximately 20.6% of median household income ($5,486 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 suburb of Dandenong?
Recent development applications in Dandenong show attached dwellings contributing 71% of approvals compared to 58% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 29% of applications versus 42% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Dandenong

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Dandenong counted 9,813 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 10,541 today, averaging 2.8 people each. 32% are couples with children, against 19% couples without children. 27% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.5 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families comprise the majority of households at 65.2%, consisting of couples with children (31.5%), couples without children (18.5%), and single parents (13.3%). Non-family households account for the remaining 34.8%, with single-person households representing 27.3% and group households making up 7.4%. The average household size is 2.8 people, which is larger than the Greater Melbourne average of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Dandenong?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Dandenong had 9,813 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.4% to an estimated 10,541 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Dandenong is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 65.2% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (27.3%), group households (7.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 6,398 family households, 31.5% are couples with children, 18.5% are couples without children at home, and 13.3% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Dandenong compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the suburb of Dandenong shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 65.2% compared to the regional 70.9%. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Dandenong have an average of 1.5 children, slightly above the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Dandenong?
Marriage patterns reveal 47.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.9% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 27.3% of all households in the suburb of Dandenong, similar to the regional average of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 7.4% of households, well below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Dandenong

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24.6% of adults in Dandenong hold a university qualification, including 16.0% with a bachelor degree and 7.1% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 16.8% hold a vocational qualification. 14 schools serve the area, with 4,745 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 957 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 region shows lower rates of higher education, with university qualifications held by 24.6% of residents compared to the Greater Melbourne average of 37.0%. This highlights a gap and a potential focus area for educational programs. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 16.0%, followed by postgraduate degrees (7.1%) and graduate diplomas (1.5%). Vocational training is common, with 27.9% of residents aged 15+ possessing vocational qualifications, consisting of advanced diplomas (11.1%) and certificates (16.8%). There is a high level of educational enrollment in the area, with 34.5% of residents currently studying.

This group includes 10.1% attending primary schools, 7.8% in secondary education, and 6.0% undertaking tertiary studies.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Dandenong have university qualifications?
24.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Dandenong have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Dandenong have no formal qualifications?
47.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Dandenong have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of dandenong ranks in the 33th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Dandenong?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Dandenong are: Certificate (16.8%), Bachelor Degree (16.0%), Advanced Diploma (11.1%).
What proportion of the suburb of Dandenong's population is currently attending educational institutions?
34.5% of the population in the suburb of Dandenong is currently engaged in formal education, with 10.1% in primary school, 7.8% in secondary school, 6.0% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Dandenong?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Dandenong is 957, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Dandenong?
There are 14 schools within the suburb of Dandenong, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,745 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Dandenong?
The suburb of dandenong includes 6 primary schools, 7 secondary schools, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Dandenong

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Dandenong

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Public transport in Dandenong reaches 164 stops on 51 routes, timetabled for about 10,300 services a week. The typical home sits about 160 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.1 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

Analysis of the local transit network shows 164 active public transport stops, providing a combination of train and bus connections. These stops are served by 51 distinct routes, which accommodate 10,336 weekly passenger journeys. Accessibility is high, with residents living an average of 161 meters from their nearest transit stop. The area is primarily residential, resulting in a high rate of outward commuting. Private vehicles are the primary mode of travel for 82% of commuters, while 8% travel by train and 6% by bus. Car ownership averages 1.1 vehicles per household, which is below the metropolitan average.

A relatively low 11.8% of residents worked from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-era conditions. Service frequency averages 1,476 daily trips across the transit network, representing approximately 63 weekly trips per stop. The accompanying map displays the 100 closest transit stops to the central point of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Dandenong?
There are 164 public transport stops within the suburb of Dandenong.
How frequent are the transport services in Dandenong?
the suburb of Dandenong has 10,336 weekly trips across 51 routes, averaging 1,476 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Dandenong?
On average, residential properties are 161 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Dandenong

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77.1% of residents in Dandenong report no long-term health condition. 8.0% need daily assistance with core activities, and 47.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.9 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Based on AreaSearch assessments of mortality and chronic disease rates, health outcomes in the area are below average. The prevalence of common conditions across the general population is moderate, though it is higher than the national average among older cohorts, and private health coverage is low, held by approximately 48% of the population (~15,395 people). This compares to a coverage rate of 56.7% in Greater Melbourne and a national average of 55.7%. Mental health conditions and diabetes are the most common diagnoses, affecting 6.9% and 5.5% of local residents, respectively, while 77.1% of the population reported no chronic conditions, compared to 72.6% across Greater Melbourne.

The working-age cohort exhibits good health with low rates of chronic illness. Residents aged 65 and older make up 13.4% of the population (4,336 people), which is lower than the Greater Melbourne share of 15.0%. Senior health presents some challenges, though it ranks better nationally than the health profile of the overall local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Dandenong have private health insurance?
Around 47.6% of people in the suburb of Dandenong are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.7% in the broader region of Greater Melbourne.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Dandenong?
In the suburb of Dandenong, 8.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Dandenong?
5.0% of people in the suburb of Dandenong are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Dandenong?
Diabetes affects 5.5% of the the suburb of Dandenong population, while in the surrounding region, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Dandenong?
3.0% of people in the suburb of Dandenong have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Melbourne, 3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Dandenong compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Dandenong, 47.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Dandenong

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66.2% of Dandenong residents were born overseas and 73.8% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 98% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (9.2%) and Australian (8.6%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The area displays high levels of cultural diversity, with 73.8% of the population speaking a language other than English at home and 66.2% born outside Australia. The most common religious affiliation is Islam, accounting for 37.9% of residents, compared to 5.6% across Greater Melbourne. In terms of parent country of birth, the top three ancestries are Other at 47.5% of the population (above the metropolitan average of 14.6%), English at 9.2% (below the metropolitan average of 20.1%), and Australian at 8.6% (below the metropolitan average of 18.4%). There are also specific ethnic groups with notable local concentrations: Serbian ancestry is represented at 1.9% (compared to 0.4% across the region), Sri Lankan at 2.1% (compared to 0.8% regionally), and Russian at 0.6% (compared to 0.4% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Dandenong?
Dandenong is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 73.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 66.2% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Dandenong?
The main religion in Dandenong was found to be Islam, which makes up 37.9% of people in Dandenong. This compares to 5.6% across Greater Melbourne.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Dandenong?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Dandenong are Other, comprising 47.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 14.6%, English, comprising 9.2% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 20.1%, and Australian, comprising 8.6% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 18.4%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Serbian is notably overrepresented at 1.9% of Dandenong (vs 0.4% regionally), Sri Lankan at 2.1% (vs 0.8%) and Russian at 0.6% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
66.2% of the the suburb of Dandenong population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Dandenong population speaks a language other than English at home?
73.8% of the population in the suburb of Dandenong speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Dandenong identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.4% of the the suburb of Dandenong population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Dandenong?
62.2% of the the suburb of Dandenong population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Dandenong

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The median resident of Dandenong is 33, younger than 86% of areas nationally. 31.9% 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

The median age of the local population is 33, which is younger than the Greater Melbourne average of 37 and the national average of 38. Compared to the metropolitan area, there is a higher proportion of residents aged 25 - 34 (19.2%) and a lower proportion of those aged 55 - 64 (8.6%). Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 5 to 14 grew from 11.9% to 12.5%, while the 25 to 34 cohort decreased from 20.7% to 19.2%. Long-term population forecasts to 2041 point to demographic shifts, with the 45 to 54 cohort projected to expand the most by 35%, adding 1,232 people to reach a total of 4,728, while the 0 to 4 age group is expected to increase by a modest 5% (112 people).

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Dandenong?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Dandenong is 33 years.
How does the suburb of Dandenong's median age compare to broader areas?
At 33 years, Dandenong is 4 years younger than the Greater Melbourne average (37 years) and 5 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Dandenong?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Dandenong compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 19.2% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Dandenong?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Dandenong compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 8.6% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Dandenong is broadly in line with the Greater Melbourne region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Dandenong?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Dandenong is 20.0%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Dandenong?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Dandenong is 13.4%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Dandenong

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 Suburb (SAL) 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 Jul 2026 last month all 16 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 Jul 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 — 285 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (30,127 at the 2021 Census → 32,363 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 (SAL20707). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Dandenong suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Dandenong 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 Dandenong 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 (Jul 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas